The Ultimate Japan Go Kart Guide: Thrilling Adventures on Tokyo’s Streets
Uncover the excitement and try go-karting in Tokyo, Japan. This once-in-a-lifetime experience lets you whizz through Tokyo’s neighborhoods, creating unforgettable memories. Dress up as your favorite character and feel the adrenaline of the open road while taking in Tokyo’s iconic sights. From essential safety precautions, equipment, and expertise, your guides will make sure you’re ready to embark on this new adventure.
The Excitement of Go-Karting in Tokyo
Street Go-Karting: A Top-Rated Experience
Street go-karting is one of the top-rated experiences in Tokyo, Japan. This popular activity has risen in popularity with locals and tourists. Take part in the excitement and whimsy of go-karting in Tokyo.
Why Do Locals and Tourists Love Street Go-Karting?
Participants get the chance to navigate Tokyo’s iconic districts, such as Asakusa and Shibuya, while dressed up as their favorite characters. This winning combination has made street go-karting famous with locals and visitors alike.
Is Street Go-Karting Banned in Tokyo?
You may have heard a rumor that street go-karting is banned in Japan, but this is not true. Street go-karting follows strict guidelines and regulations in Japan, ensuring participants and other road users are safe. Under Japanese authority, all go-kart drivers must have a valid Japanese driver’s license or International Driving Permit and be at least 18 years old. In line with regulations, all karts are road-ready and equipped with seat belts, lights, and turn signals.
What is the Appeal of Go-Karting in Tokyo?
The appeal of go-karting in Tokyo comes from the novelty of the experience. Driving an open go-kart through the city streets while dressed as your favorite character feeds our goofy and adventurous side. This experience is not like any other, giving you a chance to make this trip one like none other.
Preparing for Your Go-Karting Adventure
Before you start your go-kart adventure in Tokyo, be aware of the current regulations and licensing requirements. It is important to book with a reputable company and understand the process to enjoy a hassle-free experience.
Safety Measures
A safety briefing will occur before your Go-Kart tour. Listen carefully during the briefing and confirm you understand all the essential instructions, road rules, and kart operations. Always confirm your go-kart, seat, and seat belt are in good condition and secured properly before driving. To avoid penalties or legal issues, obey all traffic laws and stay with your group by following your group leader. Keep in mind that go-karts are low down and have a different line of visibility. Take this under consideration when driving around other road users.
License Requirements
All drivers participating in street go-karting in Japan must possess one of the following:
A valid Japanese driver’s license.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the Geneva Convention 1949 (accompanied by a national driving license).
An official Japanese translation of their license by an authorized organization, accompanied by the original license (this only applies to residents from Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Estonia, or Monaco).
A SOFA License or a combination of an Active Military ID with a state-side driver’s license (for U.S. residents only).
Go-Kart Shops in Tokyo
Japan Kart has meeting-up locations available throughout Tokyo.
Meet-up Locations
Asakusa Tours 120min
JAPANKART:
2 Chome-18-15 Azumabashi Sumida City 130-0001 Tokyo
+81363813410
Asakusa Tours 60min
JAPANKART SkyTree Branch:
Mukojima 1 Chome-25-2 Sumida City 131-0033 Tokyo
+81356378006
Shibuya Tours 120min
JAPANKART Kanda Branch:
42 Kandahigashimatsushitacho Chiyoda City 101-0042 Tokyo
+81363813410
Shibuya Tours 90min
JAPANKART Shinjuku Branch:
5 Chome-11-19 Shinjuku Shinjuku City 160-0022 Tokyo
+81363813410
Costumes for Rental
One of the highlights of go-karting with Japan Kart is having the opportunity to wear amusing costumes. All go-kart tours include a free costume rental. Outfits that are typically available include:
Anime or game characters
Animals
Superheroes
Traditional Japanese attire
Costumes fit over your regular clothing, so choose an outfit that is comfortable and does not restrict movement.
Making Reservations
Tokyo Go-karting is popular, so we recommend booking your reservation far in advance. Here’s how to book your go-kart tour:
Online Booking: Go to web site and click booking. Click on the tour you would like to book. Select the date and preferred time slot. Enter your information and complete the payment. You will receive an email notifying you of your confirmed booking.
On the Road with Go-Karts
Go-karting in Tokyo is a thrilling way to explore the city’s highlights while having a blast zipping through the city’s roadways. Japan Kart offers a variety of tour packages that can accommodate most customers’ budgets and Tokyo itineraries. Tours are arranged by region, allowing drivers to explore the highlights of one of Tokyo’s most popular areas.
Asakusa Tour 120min
Key highlights: Toyosu (Tokyo Bay), Ginza, Nihonbashi Bridge, Akihabara Electric Town, Ueno Station, Asakusa Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate, Tokyo Skytree.
Starting at ¥17,500
Asakusa Tour 60min
Key highlights: Asakusa Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate, Ueno’s Ameyoko Market, Akihabara Electric Town, Ueno Park, Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street, Tokyo Skytree.
Starting at ¥12,500
Shibuya Tour 120min
Key highlights: Imperial Palace, Omotesando, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Dougenzaka, Miyashita Park, Roppongi, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Station.
Starting at ¥17,500
Shibuya Tour 90min
Key highlights: Shinjyukugyoen Shinjuku Gate, Omotesando & Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Dogenzaka, Shibuya Miyashita Park, Yoyogi Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Kabukicho
Starting at ¥15,000
Best Courses for the Ultimate Go-Kart Experience
The Shibuya Tour 120min is the best tour for first-time visitors to Tokyo. Not only does it provide a tour of the top sights in West Tokyo, including the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Miyashita Park, but it is also a more comprehensive tour than the 90-minute option.
Choosing the Right Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. Tour prices range from ¥12,500 and upward, and are available in 60-minute to 120-minute time slots. If you are interested in nature, a tour including Shibuya Miyashita Park or Ueno Park may interest you. Those interested in shopping districts may enjoy tours including stops at Ueno’s Ameyoko Market or Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street.
What to Expect from Your Go-Karting Experience
Go-karting in Tokyo offers an exhilarating experience that leaves lasting memories. Our customers agreed, Gabi Adhami described it as “the highlight of our trip,” and Ho Kah Jun added, “A trip without a Japan kart isn’t complete.”
Celebrity Status on the Streets
Our customers have expressed feeling like a celebrity while go-karting. Tourists and locals wave, take pictures, and cheer as go-karters drive through the city. Despite being on city streets, the go-karts offer impressive speeds, reaching up to 60 kpm (37 mph).
Exceptional Customer Service
The high level of customer service provided by Japan Kart is often praised by its participants. Our exceptional staff members provide detailed safety briefings, teach participants kart controls, and confirm all go-karts are well-maintained and in good working order. They are there to assist participants with costume selection and to ensure participants are having an enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
An unforgettable experience awaits you in Tokyo. Book your go-kart tour in Tokyo and experience the thrill of a lifetime!