Tokyo Street Go-Karting: A Comprehensive Guide
Street go-karting in Tokyo is an experience like no other. Zip through Tokyo’s busy city streets in your go-kart. Stop and take a few photos at world-famous landmarks, while learning about the history of these iconic sights. No need to worry about following confusing directions or getting lost, as your tour guide will lead the way. Now try on the costume, hop in, and get zooming.
Understanding Tokyo’s Go-Karting Scene
Street go-karting in Tokyo first started in 2015, when a company (since closed) began offering go-karting tours around the city. Although customers were initially excited about the offering, legal issues, and the 2020 lockdown resulted in a closure of their services. Since then, other companies have stepped in, offering reputable services that adhere to all legal and traffic guidelines. This resurgence has been met with excitement, as thrill-seeking locals and tourists can now create unforgettable memories, zipping around the city.
How to Get Behind the Wheel
How Do I Book a Go-Kart Tour with Japan Kart?
You can book your Tokyo go-kart tour online or by phone. To book your tour online, visit (the company website) and click booking. Select the type of tour you prefer and then select a date. You will have the option to choose a time slot, and then click next. Payment is accepted by credit card and can be completed at check-out. Once you have completed the purchase, a notification will be sent by email for your booking confirmation. To book your tour by phone, call (company phone number) and a customer service agent will be glad to assist you.
Do I Need a Driver’s License to Go-Kart in Tokyo?
Yes, you are required to have a valid driver’s license to drive a go-kart. The following are acceptable forms of ID that will be accepted:
A valid Japanese driver’s license.
A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the Geneva Convention 1949 (accompanied by a national driving license).
An official Japanese translation of the license by an authorized organization, accompanied by the original license (this only applies to residents from Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Estonia, or Monaco). All must be valid and not expired.
A valid SOFA License or a combination of a valid Active Military ID with a valid state-side driver’s license (for U.S. residents only).
Are English-Language Go-Kart Tours Available in Tokyo?
Yes, most staff members are fluent in English and Japanese. It is important for all participants to fully understand the safety briefings and instructions given by the tour guides. If you do not understand English or Japanese, please contact staff before booking to ensure we can offer you a safe and enjoyable experience.
Choosing the Perfect Go-Kart Experience
Japan Kart offers go-kart tours in East and West Tokyo, home to many of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. Japan Kart provides several tour options to accommodate participants’ various budgets, itineraries, and preferred landmarks.
East Tokyo
Japan Kart offers two tours in East Tokyo:
A 120-minute Asakusa Tour, starting from ¥17,500.
A 60-minute Asakusa Tour starting from ¥12,500.
Both tours explore the iconic Asakusa Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate and Tokyo Skytree, giving a glimpse of Tokyo’s stunning city skyline and historical monuments.
West Tokyo
Japan Kart offers two tours in West Tokyo:
A 120-minute Shibuya Tour, starting from ¥17,500.
A 90-minute Shibuya Tour starting from ¥15,000.
Both tours include visits to Miyashita Park and Shibuya Crossing. For history buffs, the 120-minute Shibuya Tour is a must, as it stops by the impressive Imperial Palace, home to successive Emperors.
Safety Precautions
To Japan Kart, our participants and public road users’ safety is one of our top priorities. Japan Kart follows all Japanese governing authorities’ laws and road regulations, ensuring all street go-karts follow road safety guidelines and are in good working condition. All participants are given a safety briefing and go-kart instructions before driving to ensure all drivers have an enjoyable and safe experience.
Key Safety Guidelines
Drivers must be 18 years or older to drive a go-kart and have a valid and approved driver’s license.
Drivers are expected to follow all Japan traffic laws, including signaling, maintaining distance between other road users, and avoiding distractions (such as mobile phone use).
Impaired driving while in Japan is illegal and can result in legal penalties. Ensure the safety of yourself and others by driving safely.
The Go-Karting Experience
Go-karting in Tokyo is an unforgettable and thrilling experience. Rebekah Lee describes go-karting in Tokyo as “exhilarating!”, while Guido Stracke “Had an absolute BALL!!!” on a Japan Kart Asakusa Tour. Many participants described feeling like a celebrity, as people on the street wave, take photos, and smile at drivers passing by. Participants’ fun costumes and go-karts make them stand out in the crowd. This serves not only as a fun experience but is great for photo opportunities. Zooming through the city at high speeds, participants are often surprised at the kart’s speed and can enjoy the wind in their hair and the sun on their faces while taking in the city skyline.
Additional Offerings
With Japan Kart, participants have the option to wear fun costumes. Anime characters, superheroes, animals, and traditional costumes are available and add a fun aspect to the experience. Participants should choose costumes that fit comfortably over their clothing and don’t restrict movement. Drivers also have the option to borrow a GoPro Body Harness, which allows first-person video recording. Capture your experience live and enjoy the fun!
Conclusion
Go-karting in Tokyo is an exhilarating and fun way to explore the local sights. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will be one you will never forget. So get ready and book your next adventure with Japan Kart.
Contact Information
To book your Tokyo go-kart tour, click here .
For additional information or if you have a question, you can contact us at info@japankart.com.