Epic Experience: Tokyo Street Kart 🍄🏎️

Ever wanted to race through Tokyo like Mario? 🍄🏎️

Well, buckle up … because this is your sign to do it! 🏁🇯🇵✨

🛑 Here’s what you NEED to know before you go:

But before you start revving your engines, here’s everything Aussie travellers need to know to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

🛂 International Driver’s Permit (IDP) – A Must for all visitors!

One of the biggest mistakes travellers make? Not bringing an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

✅ You absolutely must have an IDP if you’re from any other country outside Japan.
✅ Your IDP must be issued in your home country before you arrive — it cannot be obtained in Japan.
✅ It must be based on the 1949 Geneva Convention—which is the version issued by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its state affiliates (RACV, NRMA, RACQ, etc).
✅ You must also carry your Passport along with your IDP during the tour.

🔹 How to Get One? Apply through your local motoring club (RACV, NRMA, RAA, RACQ, etc)—it only takes a few days!

⚠️ No IDP = No Go-Karting! Don’t miss out because you forgot this simple step!

🎭 Costumes Provided – Dress to Impress!

What’s more fun than driving a go-kart through Tokyo? Doing it in full costume! 🎭

You can choose from a huge range of outfits, including:
🎮 Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser, Yoshi – Live out your Mario Kart dreams!
🐯 Other fun characters like Pikachu, Tigger, superheroes and more!

👗 Pro tip: Arrive early for the best costume selection! Sizes are limited, so if you have your heart set on a specific outfit, don’t wait until the last minute.

🗺️ Guided Tour – Stress Free & Super Fun!

Not familiar with Tokyo? No worries! A professional guide will lead your group, ensuring a fun and safe experience.

✅ No need to navigate traffic—just follow your guide and focus on having fun!
✅ Comprehensive safety briefing before you start.
✅ Regular photo stops at the best locations, so you can capture epic memories!

🚦 Pro tip: Be mindful of local traffic laws — this is a real street tour and you’ll be sharing the road with cars and buses!

🌆 Drive Past Tokyo’s Most Iconic Landmarks!

This is not just a go-kart ride—it’s an unforgettable sightseeing adventure! Depending on what tour you choose you can expect to zip past some of these iconic landmarks:

📍 Shibuya Crossing – One of the busiest intersections in the world. Feel like a celebrity as people snap photos of you! 📸
📍 Harajuku – A vibrant, trendy district famous for its unique street fashion and colourful atmosphere.
📍 Tokyo Tower – Japan’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, offering spectacular skyline views.
📍 Rainbow Bridge – Drive across this illuminated bridge with breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay.
📍 Akihabara  – The mecca of anime, gaming and all things geek culture!

💡 Routes may vary depending on the tour company, so check the itinerary before booking!

 Extra Pro Tips for the Ultimate Experience!

✅ Book in advance – This experience is incredibly popular and sells out quickly, especially during peak seasons!
✅ Dress warmly in winter – Tokyo can get chilly and you’ll be exposed to the elements in an open kart.
✅ Wear closed-toe shoes – Safety first! Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed.
✅ Go for a night tour if possible – Tokyo’s neon lights make for an even more magical experience! ✨
✅ Bring a small action camera (like a GoPro) – Some tour companies allow you to mount one on your kart for epic first-person footage!
✅ Check age & height requirements – Typically, you must be 18+ and have a full driver’s licence to participate.

🚀 How to Book & What’s Included?

Each tour company offers slightly different packages, but most include:

✔️ Go-kart rental (for 1-2 hours)
✔️ Character costumes (free of charge!)
✔️ Guided tour with a professional leader
✔️ Helmet & safety briefing
✔️ Photos are allowed when stopped at traffic lights

💰 Pricing: Expect to pay around ¥10,000–¥15,000 ($100–$150 AUD) per person, depending on the length of the tour.

🔗 Where to Book? Several operators run these tours—be sure to choose a well-reviewed and licensed provider! Some popular options include:

(Tip: Check reviews and confirm they operate legally. Companies have faced legal issues in the past!)

🎯 Is This Worth It? 100% YES!

This is hands-down one of the most unique and fun experiences you can have in Tokyo. Whether you’re a Mario Kart fan, a thrill-seeker or just looking for an unforgettable way to see the city, this adventure will be a highlight of your Japan trip!

Here’s our recommendation! We booked via GET YOUR GUIDE and loved it.

CLICK ON ANY OF THE IMAGES TO BOOK YOUR VERY OWN TOKYO STREET KART EXPERIENCE!

About the author

Caz

Hi, I'm Caz ... I'm a Travel Enthusiast and Lover of Life! Former travel agent ... my family and I live our best lives travelling the globe and sharing our adventures. Top tips, travel hacks and advice on things to see and do all over the world are our jam!

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