Akihabara, Tokyo’s Electric Town

Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town, pulsates with the vibrant energy of anime, manga, and video games. It’s a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds – flashing lights, towering figures of your favorite characters, and the cacophony of excited fans. But Akihabara offers more than just a window into fantastical worlds – it offers the chance to step right into them! Buckle up, because nestled amongst the electronics stores and figurine shops lies an incredible adventure that blends the real with the virtual: go-karting!

Go-Karting Adventure

Experience the Thrill

Have you ever dreamt of piloting a sleek go-kart through the bustling streets of Akihabara, weaving past iconic landmarks and feeling the wind whip through your hair? Imagine the thrill of replicating your favorite racing game, not on a screen, but on the actual streets, surrounded by the neon glow of Akihabara’s nightlife. This guide will be your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about making this dream a reality. From choosing the perfect go-karting tour that suits your needs and racing style to understanding what to expect on the day, we’ll cover it all. So, ditch the controller, unleash your inner racer, and explore Akihabara in a way you never thought possible!

What it’s Like to Go-Kart Around Akihabara

Popular and Famous Tourist Destinations Around Akihabara

Tokyo Bay

Tokyo Bay beckons! Explore a dazzling maritime metropolis. Cruise past iconic landmarks like Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. Immerse yourself in history at museums and temples. Savor fresh seafood at bustling fish markets. Relax on scenic islands or get your adrenaline pumping with water sports. Tokyo Bay offers an unforgettable blend of culture, nature, and urban excitement!

Toyosu Fish Market

Screaming past a blur of shimmering skyscrapers, the Toyosu Fish Market sprawls into view. The air hangs thick with the salty tang of the ocean, a stark contrast to the neon glow of Akihabara to come. Below, the market thrums with life – a kaleidoscope of color as colossal tuna are hoisted onto gleaming carts. The rhythmic chants of the auctioneers are heard in the background, punctuated by the excited shouts of vendors. This is Japan’s iconic fish market. Hold on tight, though, the ride’s just getting started!

Ginza

Zooming through Ginza! Towering high-rises of glass and steel whiz by. A dazzling display of neon signs explodes in a medley of colors – Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton. Pedestrians in designer outfits turn heads, momentarily surprised by your low-riding invasion. You dart past sleek cafes and elegant department stores, the scent of expensive coffee and luxury mingling in the air. This is a different kind of Tokyo rush, a high-octane blend of wealth, fashion, and pure adrenaline!

Nihonbashi

Strapped into your go-kart, you peek around a corner and bam! The majestic Nihonbashi Bridge unfolds before you. Sunlight glints off the white stone arches, contrasting with the inky black water of the Nihonbashi River snaking beneath. Above, towering skyscrapers pierce the sky, their windows reflecting the vibrant lights in a mesmerizing dance. As you hug the corner, the iconic bridge fills your rearview mirror, shrinking but forever etched in your memory. The rumble of your engine blends with the symphony of the city, creating a unique soundtrack to your unforgettable Akihabara adventure.

Akihabara

Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town, explodes with neon signs and energy as you zip through in your go-kart. Whizz past towering buildings plastered with anime characters and flashing advertisements for the latest gadgets. Stare in awe at towering Gundam statues guarding electronics stores, and hear the excited shouts of gamers filtering from bustling arcades. The scent of savory street food mingles with exhaust fumes as you navigate the vibrant Akihabara streets, a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells that will leave you exhilarated on this electrifying go-kart adventure.

Ueno Park

Escape Tokyo’s hustle in Ueno Park, a sprawling oasis. Cruise past serene lotus ponds and ancient shrines. Stroll under cherry blossoms (in spring) or vibrant autumn foliage. Gaze out at the paddleboats on Shinobazu Pond. History buffs can explore museums dedicated to science and nature. Foodies, grab a bite at street stalls or trendy cafes. Laughter fills the air from families picnicking under towering trees. Ueno Park offers a taste of everything – tranquility, culture, and pure Tokyo fun.

Asakusa

Asakusa unfolds like a living postcard as you zoom by in your go-kart. The iconic red paper lantern of Sensoji Temple dominates the skyline, a beacon amidst traditional wooden buildings. Whirl past bustling Nakamise-dori, a kaleidoscope of street vendors peddling everything from kimonos to lucky charms. Inhale the sweet aroma of freshly-baked melon-pan or other sweets. Skirt past locals in colorful kimonos, adding a touch of elegance to the vibrant chaos. Asakusa is a glimpse into old Tokyo where tradition thrives amidst the modern city.

Skytree

Suddenly, the towering form of Tokyo Skytree pierces the horizon, a majestic white spire against the azure canvas of the sky. Rising high into the sky, its latticework design stretches impossibly upwards. Cameras flash from its observation decks as you zoom by, capturing a fleeting glimpse of the city sprawling beneath its shadow. The once-distant landmark fills your view as you head back, a stark contrast to the neon-drenched streets you navigate. But only for a moment – the cityscape reclaims your attention, pulling you deeper into the electric heart of Tokyo.

Length of the Tour

Once you get checked in and receive a thorough briefing, including safety and driving rules, you can expect to be in the kart for around two hours.

Safety Precautions

Safety First

Detailed Briefing: Before hitting the gas, a thorough safety explanation ensures you understand the rules of the road, kart operation, and proper etiquette.
Seatbelts: Just like a car, all go-karts are equipped with seatbelts that must be fastened throughout the tour.
Guided Tour: You won’t be navigating the bustling streets alone. A lead guide paves the way, while another ensures the group stays together, minimizing risks.
Following the Rules: While it’s a thrilling experience, racing and reckless driving are strictly prohibited. Maintain a safe distance between karts and adhere to all traffic laws for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Additional Tips

Dress comfortably in clothes that allow for easy movement and avoid loose clothing that could get tangled in the kart.
For more details on specific regulations and restrictions, don’t hesitate to consult a reputable go-karting company like Japan Kart.

With safety at the forefront, you can focus on the electrifying sights, sounds, and energy of Akihabara as you zoom through Tokyo’s electric town!

How to Book Go Kart Tour in Japan Kart

Reserving your spot is not a difficult process. However, there are some things to consider before punching your ticket to the race.

Required Documents

One of the following is required to book your tour through Tokyo:
1.Japanese Driving License (residents of Japan)
2.Passport with a Foreign driving license and an international driving Permit
3.Passport with Foreign driving license (issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Slovenia, or Monaco) with Japanese Translation by an authorized organization.
4.SOFA Driving License for US Forces Japan

Age Restriction

You must be 18 or older to drive in Japan. If you clear the two conditions above, then you are all set to book your go-karting tour around Akihabara. To book, head to the Japan Kart website, navigate to the Booking button, and choose the East Tokyo Landmark Tour. Then all you have to do is select the number of participants, date, and time.

Pricing for Go Kart Tour in Japan Kart

Japan Kart offers tours for 17,500 yen, but keep an eye open because there are often discounts and limited-time offers made available.

FAQs

Can my friend sit next to me in the go-kart?

While our current go-karts only seat one driver, we’re always looking for ways to improve! Stay tuned for future updates.

We are traveling as a large group, are there any options for non-drivers?

Non-drivers are welcome to ride along in our guide vehicle for the tour. There are also a variety of sightseeing locations near our office or you can head to Akihabara and snap some photos of the go-karts as they drive by.

I am a bit concerned as I have never driven in Japan. Is it really safe to drive?

Your safety is our priority! Before you zip off, our comprehensive safety briefing equips you with the knowledge to confidently operate your go-kart. Throughout the tour, our expert guide leads the way, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Rest assured, all our go-karts meet the strictest Japanese safety regulations, giving you peace of mind to focus on the exhilarating adventure ahead.

What happens if it rains?

We strive to run our tours rain or shine! However, for your safety, we may need to cancel in cases of heavy downpours or thunderstorms. We’ll make this decision on a case-by-case basis and will provide a full refund if the weather forces us to cancel.

Can I wear a special costume (cosplay)?

Gear up for fun! Choose from our wild selection of free costumes, or bring your own for a truly unique ride.