Go Karting in Tokyo_Ultimate Guide for Tourists
Overview of Go-Karting in Tokyo
Rising in popularity, street go-karting attracts tourists from around the world. In part, due to its thrilling blend of sightseeing and adventure. Zip through the famous districts of Tokyo, like Shibuya and Shinjuku, while taking in the iconic sites and feeling the adrenaline rush. Explore Tokyo excitingly and uniquely, by booking a street go-karting tour today.
How Go-Karting in Tokyo Works
Booking Your Go-Kart Experience
Experience the highlights of a region of Tokyo by selecting a tour that includes the sites, district, or neighborhood you wish to explore. East or West Tokyo tour packages are popular, with Asakusa and Shibuya tours being the top go-kart tours selected. Depending on your schedule and time constraints, day and evening tours are available in 60-minute, 90-minute, and 120-minute durations.
What to Expect During Your Go-Kart Tour
Upon arrival at the designated meeting point, you will be greeted and checked in by one of the tour staff. Once your driver’s license and passport have been verified, you will be provided with a safety briefing and instructions on how to operate the vehicle. After, drivers will have the option to choose a fun costume to wear on the tour. Once the tour begins, drivers will be guided by an expert tour guide through the streets of Tokyo. Occasional stops at landmarks will allow participants to take photographs and capture the excitement. At the end of the tour, all drivers will return to the meeting point, and return their costumes and rental equipment.
Popular Go-Kart Locations in Tokyo
Asakusa Tours
Blending historical significance with modern design, the neighborhood of Asakusa is known for its iconic Sensoji Temple, traditional street food, and stunning view of the Sumida River. Discover traditional Japanese handicrafts, witness professional Geisha, the Tokyo Skytree, and more in this bustling Tokyo neighborhood.
Shibuya Tours
Colorful, bright, and busy, the streets of Shibuya are where the night comes alive. Zoom through this urban neighborhood, taking in the neon signs, shopping strips, nightclubs, restaurants, and the unforgettable Shibuya crossing.
Akihabara Tours
Famous for its anime, gaming culture, collectibles, and electronics, the electric town of Akihabara is an exciting district. Witness passersby in realistic cosplay and experience the Japanese otaku culture, while zipping by in your street go-kart.
Safety Precautions for Go-Karting in Tokyo
Required Licenses and Documentation
Drivers participating in the tour must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license and passport. The Japanese ruling authority requires that all drivers follow Japanese road laws and regulations. Only the following forms of driver’s licenses will be accepted. Please note that photocopies and licenses issued by non-approved agencies will not 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). Must be in booklet form, paper form will not be accepted.
・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).
Safety Measures and Compliance
To have a safe and comfortable tour experience, follow all safety measures and guidelines set out by Japan’s governing authority and tour staff. Actively listen during the safety briefing and demonstration, and ask any questions you may have before the start of the tour. If you feel unwell, or have a condition that may impact your driving, notify a staff member immediately. It is the responsibility of all drivers to follow the road laws and regulations and to notify staff if needed. Violation of Japanese road laws may result in penalties or legal issues.
Tips for a Successful Go-Kart Adventure
Choosing the Right Costume
Add a whimsical element to your street go-kart experience by wearing a silly costume. Tour operators frequently offer rental costumes of popular superheroes, zoo animals, and anime characters. Want to bring your costume? No problem! Bring your costume, dress up, and enjoy the ride.
Driving Tips and Etiquette
All tours are conducted on public roads, please be mindful of other drivers, pedestrians, and road users. Follow road rules and regulations, and remember that vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What License Do I Need?
A: All drivers are required to have either a valid Japanese driver’s license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), a valid SOFA License, or a combination of a valid Active Military ID in combination with a state-side driver’s license (for U.S. residents only). Please see (link) for more information on driver’s license requirements for street go-karting.
Can Non-Drivers Participate?
A: Non-drivers have the option to either enjoy the many sites, shopping centers, and restaurants near the meeting point or ride for free in the tour’s rear vehicle.
Booking and Contact Information
How to Book Your Go-Kart Tour
Step One: Book your tour online via the go-kart operators web portal or call the company’s customer support line.
Step Two: Select the date, time slot, and tour type.
Step Three: Provide your contact information, including your name, phone number, email address, and payment details.
Step Four: Confirm your booking and complete the payment. Once your booking has been confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email, booking number, or electronic receipt.
Contact Details
・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
+81335254538
・Shibuya Tours 90min
JAPANKART Shinjuku Branch:
5 Chome-11-19 Shinjuku Shinjuku City 160-0022 Tokyo
+81353154955
・Osaka Tour 90min
JAPANKART Osaka Branch:
1 Chome-11-17 Shikitsunishi Naniwa Ward Osaka City 556-0015 Osaka
+81366269725
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Testimonials from Previous Participants
“It was so much fun and way more exhilarating than I had anticipated…” – Kristy Tong.
“…staff are incredibly attentive to keep everyone safe, and do well to keep the group together, even with a large group.” – Zachary Harris.
“This experience was the highlight of our trip.” – Gabi Adhami.
Conclusion
Discover the thrilling adventure of street go-karting in Tokyo. Zoom around the city, feel the adrenaline rush, and embark on an experience of a lifetime. Book your tour today, and create memories that you will not soon forget.