Street Go Karting in Tokyo Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Discover a new and exciting way to tour the city of Tokyo with a street go-karting experience. Zoom through the lively city streets of Tokyo in an authentic street go-kart while taking in the many famous landmarks and sites that Tokyo has to offer. Expert guides will provide you with everything you need to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience safely and in style, making street go-karting in Tokyo a must-do activity to add to your travel itinerary.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is a top priority!
Adhering to Traffic Laws
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, tour operators and drivers must adhere to all Japanese traffic laws and road regulations.
Pre-Tour Safety Briefing
A safety briefing detailing Japanese road safety, how to operate the vehicle, and driving tips will be provided before the street go-kart tour. Drivers are expected to wear their seatbelts, be aware of other road users and pedestrians, and listen actively during the safety briefing.
Impaired Driving and Medical Conditions
To ensure the safety of all road users, do not consume alcohol prior to the tour. Impaired driving can result in serious penalties and/or legal issues. If you have any concerns or a medical condition that may impact your driving ability, notify the staff before the start of the tour.
Licensing Requirements
All drivers are required to have a valid driving permit and be at least 18 years of age to drive a street go-kart in Tokyo due to Japan’s traffic laws and road regulations.
Acceptable Forms of Driver’s License:
・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 (applicable for residents from Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Estonia, or Monaco)
・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)
Booking and Reservations
Ready to zip around Tokyo in a street go-kart?
How to Book
Easily book your reservation online with a reputable service provider. Due to the increasing popularity of street go-karting with tourists in Japan, it is recommended that drivers book their tours well in advance.
VIP and Private Tours
For those looking for an extra special experience, VIP and private tours are available with select providers. Get ready to experience Tokyo in a whole new way and book your tour today.
What to Expect
Street go-kart tours are available by district or region, providing participants with the highlights of East or West Tokyo, with some tours even offering a scenic route with views of Mt. Fuji. In East Tokyo, drivers can expect to see iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Bay, Akihabara, Ginza, and Asakusa. West Tokyo routes often include famous highlights such as Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo Station, and Tokyo Tower. When booking a tour, select the route that fits your desired landmarks and scenery.
To add a whimsical and fun aspect to the tours, many operators offer rental costumes. These fun outfits come in a variety of playful characters, such as popular superheroes, anime characters, and animals. Guests have the option of dressing up before cruising through the city. This fun addition is often praised by drivers, as a highlight of the tour.
To ensure a smooth and safe experience, all drivers are provided with a safety briefing before the tour. An overview of road safety and driving regulations, instructions on how to operate the go-kart, and safety tips are provided. During the tour an expert guide will navigate drivers through the city, pointing out the iconic landmarks, assisting drivers with taking photos and providing insights into the various sites. Drivers can expect occasional stops throughout the tour at the iconic landmarks, allowing for photographs. Drivers are not permitted to take photos while operating a street go-kart.
Customer Reviews
Positive Feedback
Customers have expressed that street go-karting was the highlight of their Tokyo vacation. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and expertise of the tour guides in providing a safe yet exciting experience. Drivers often rave about the attention they receive from passersby, expressing that they feel like celebrities in their fun and authentic street go-karts and costumes.
Capturing the Experience
For drivers wanting to capture the experience, some tour operators provide an action camera rental or camera body attachment. This allows drivers to record a first-person view of their Tokyo street go-kart tour, letting them relive the experience from the comfort of their own home.
Tips for a Great Experience
Appropriate Clothing
To ensure a safe experience, wear clothing that is comfortable and does not restrict your movement. Baggy clothing, such as long skirts, scarves, or flowy fabrics, is prohibited due to the possibility of it getting caught in the vehicle equipment. Comfortable footwear is essential—high heels and bare feet are not allowed for safety and hygiene reasons.
Weather Considerations
Consider weather conditions and dress accordingly. Although heavy rain or poor weather conditions may result in a tour cancellation, some tours still operate in light rain.
・In cooler months: A warm hat, gloves, and thermal layers are preferred.
・In summer: UV-protective clothing or thinner layers may be more comfortable. Keep in mind that rental costumes are worn over the driver’s clothing.
Hydration
Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle while on tour. Summer tours can increase the risk of dehydration, so it’s essential to bring a hydrating beverage. Umbrellas and oversized hats are not permitted to be worn by drivers as they may hinder driving visibility, so make sure to wear UV-protective clothing and sunscreen on hot days.