3 Best Go Kart Tours in Tokyo

Thinking about booking a go-kart tour in Tokyo? You absolutely should!

There is honestly nothing quite like zipping through the city’s neon-lit streets dressed as a cartoon character. Mario Kart was invented in Japan, and here in Tokyo, you can live out the real-life version. It’s a childhood dream come true!

But with several routes and tour operators to choose from, how do you decide which one’s worth it? That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up the three best go-kart tours in Tokyo so that you can focus on the fun part. Just remember that you’ll need both a valid driver’s license and an international driving permit to join, so grab your documents and let’s get into it.

1. Central Tokyo Go-Kart Adventure

This is the original go-kart tour in Tokyo, and we can’t recommend it enough! It ticks all the boxes because it has an amazing route, lots of costumes to choose from, and thousands of 5-star reviews (see them all here!). You can’t go wrong with this one! 

Before hitting the road, we got suited up in fun character costumes (I went for Mario and my friends as Pokémon characters!) and had a quick but thorough safety briefing. Then, once we felt comfortable behind the wheel, our guide, Sarah, led us out into the Tokyo traffic. I’ll admit that I felt a bit nervous at first, but the karts were surprisingly sturdy and easy to handle.

Sarah kept the pace exciting but safe as we zipped through the streets of Odaiba, crossed the iconic Rainbow Bridge, and cruised past Tokyo Tower. Lots of pedestrians waved at us and stopped to take photos, but really, can you blame them?

This tour was so much fun and also a really efficient way to sightsee, as we covered a lot of ground in just over two hours. It was a total adrenaline rush and something we’re really looking forward to doing again the next time we’re in Tokyo.

Since this is the OG go-kart tour, it does sell out quickly, so I would recommend booking this a few weeks in advance. You’ve even got the option to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation, so there’s nothing to lose!

2. Go-Kart through Akihabara

Akihabara is one of Tokyo’s most unique neighborhoods. It’s a must-visit spot for pop culture fans and tech lovers thanks to its neon-lit streets and strong anime and manga scene. This is where video game worlds and real life collide, so it’s an amazing place for a go-kart tour!

We think that this Akihabara go-kart tour is the ultimate way to experience the district’s legendary energy. You’ll put on a cartoon-themed onesie and get behind the wheel of your own street-legal go-kart, then zip through the streets with a local. And yes, people will wave and take photos as you drive past!

You’ll also drive past Tokyo Station and through the hustle and bustle that surrounds it, and cruise through the chic streets of Ginza. Ginza is super clean and home to a ton of big, futuristic department stores as well as lots of neon billboards, which further adds to the video-game feel of this experience. 

Doing a go-kart tour in this part of Tokyo is such a great way to explore because you’ll be able to see these neighborhoods from a perspective you just don’t get on foot. Akihabara is a super fun and energetic area, and this tour really lets you get into the spirit of the place. No wonder it has over a thousand 5-star reviews!

3. Shibuya Go-Kart Tour

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods. It’s home to the famous Shibuya Scramble, aka the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, and it’s adjacent to Harajuku, which is arguably Japan’s best-known fashion district. So if you want to do a deep dive into all that this vibrant area has to offer, you can always hop in a go-kart with this exciting tour.

What we like about this tour is that you get to see some of Japan’s coolest and most vibrant streets as you whiz around dressed as a pop culture character. And if you like, you’re welcome to BYOO – bring your own onesie! 

To take this tour to the next level, you can even book a later slot so that you can explore Shibuya after dark. Seeing the area lit up by neon billboards and signs really takes those video game vibes to the next level.

The guides on this tour really know their stuff and offer super clear directions to make this experience as smooth and easy as possible. You’ll zip past the famous Shibuya Crossing and see the scramble in action, as well as Harajuku Station, where Tokyo’s legendary fashion culture was born. Then, you’ll get a complete change of pace as you cruise down the beautiful tree-lined streets of Omotesando, lined with luxury shops and cafés. 

For a lot of visitors, Shibuya is one of the most exciting and interesting areas in Tokyo. If it’s an area you’re really looking forward to visiting, then this go-kart tour is perfect for you! 

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Accommodation in Tokyo can be expensive – there’s no simple way to put it! However, there are a lot of great options in terms of quality, location, and amenities. To help narrow down your choices, I’ve picked out three fantastic stays for those looking for a luxury, mid-range, or budget place to stay.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier – $$$

Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier is a luxury stay featuring rooms with balconies and city views. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo, so you’re close to the trains and top sights, but it’s still a relaxing and quiet stay. The rooms are modern and spacious, and you can enjoy the on-site restaurant and gorgeous garden area.

Prices start around ¥37,500 ($250 USD) per night and can be booked online here.

OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka – $$

OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka has a fabulous location in the Minato area, and is close to the trains, so you can get anywhere in the city easily. The hotel itself is very comfortable for a moderate price point, offering double or twin rooms with cozy sitting nooks in each room. There are plenty of restaurants and convenience stores around the hotel, and you can walk to some of Tokyo’s top sights.

Rooms start around ¥22,500 ($150 USD) on average. You can check prices and reserve this stay online in advance. 

Plat Hostel Keikyu Asakusa Karin – $

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, the Plat Hostel Keikyu Asakusa Karin is your best bet. Located in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, you’ll be near top temples and activities and a short walk to the train station. The rooms are basic, but clean, and provide a comfortable place to rest, and you can get a private room or a dorm room.

Private rooms start around ¥7,500 ($50 USD), and a dorm is about ¥3,000 ($20 USD) – not bad for Tokyo! Check availability and book this budget stay on Booking.com.

For more options, check out all of the hotels in Tokyo here!

Related Read: For more neighborhood details and hotel ideas, read our full guide on where to stay in Tokyo here, plus our roundup of the best onsen hotels in Tokyo has all our top picks for relaxing, bath-filled stays.

Thanks for reading!

Go-karting through Tokyo is one of the most memorable travel experiences you can have. It’s not a question of if you should do it, but what part of Tokyo you want to explore! Whether you go with the original Tokyo Bay tour or choose to explore Akihabara or Shibuya, I know you won’t regret booking this experience.

Before you go, check out our other Japan blogs! We have traveled all over this country and compiled tons of resources to help you plan an epic trip. From more exciting activities like go-karting to planning logistics and traditional experiences, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

4 Best Food Tours in Tokyo, Japan

The 15 Best Ryokans in Tokyo

3 BEST Mt Fuji Tours from Tokyo

The 15 Best Ryokans in Nikko