Japanese Mario Kart in the Streets of Tokyo: 2026 Guide

If you haven’t caught the videos floating around online yet, street go-karting in Tokyo is exactly what it looks like. You pick a costume, hop in a kart, and drive through actual city streets in Japan. Legally. In broad daylight. Past real traffic.

Here’s the scene: you’re rolling through Tokyo in full character gear, neon signs on either side, Rainbow Bridge or Tokyo Tower somewhere in the distance, and you’re grinning the whole time. It’s completely absurd and completely brilliant.

This isn’t a Nintendo game or some theme park attraction. It’s a genuine, moving-through-real-traffic, honk-if-you-want experience on the streets of Tokyo. And it belongs on every bucket list.

In this guide, we cover how the whole thing works, what it costs, and what you need to know before you book. I did it myself. Hands down one of the best things I’ve done in Japan. Let’s get into it.

Japanese Mario Kart: Introduction

Before going through the main details, let’s start with all the essentials you should know before going.

What is the Japanese Mario Kart in Tokyo?

In Tokyo, the Japanese Mario Kart experience, commonly known as “Real Life Mario Kart,” is an incredibly fun and unique activity.

It’s inspired by the famous Nintendo game, where you dress up as popular characters and drive around the city in go-karts.

This adventure takes you through the streets of Tokyo, allowing you to see famous landmarks while karting.

MUST-READ: Where to Stay in Tokyo, Best Areas and Hotels

Is the Real Life Mario Kart Japan Legal?

Yes, it is legal, but with specific regulations. Participants must have a valid Japanese driver’s license or an international driver’s license.

The street karts are legal and must adhere to Japanese traffic laws. Read below for the Mario Kart Tokyo requirements and get ready for your trip to Tokyo.

Requirements

To join the experience, there are a few key requirements:

• A valid driving license: International visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP), or a Japanese driver’s license if residing in Japan.
• Driving permits from Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Qatar, Mexico, Indonesia, and Pakistan are not allowed to drive in Japan.
• You may need an official translation as per Japanese law, on top of your international driver’s permit (for Belgium, France, Monaco, Germany, Switzerland, and Taiwan citizens)
• Appropriate clothing: While costumes are provided, you should wear suitable clothing for driving a kart.

For British readers, you can get the translation of your driving license from your local Post Office so make sure you plan ahead and get this done, once you have one it’s valid for one year. This currently costs £5.50.

Is the Japanese Mario Kart Safe?

Yes, it’s generally safe. Operators prioritise safety precautions with helmets and safety briefing, and the karts are equipped with basic safety features.

Participants must adhere to Japanese traffic laws and be attentive while driving on public roads and that’s why a guide is there to lead you.

Mario Go Kart Tokyo Price

Generally speaking, expect to pay around US$75 – US$100 per person. That is the regular price. This price includes the kart rental, costume rental, and a guide to lead the group.

There are many options when it comes to the street go-karting price, there are currently 7 Maricar stores in Tokyo! I went with Akihabara go-kart company, and I was very happy with the enjoyable experience.

You will have several extra options such as hiring a Bluetooth speaker, action camera or even LED shoes! However, the costume rental and helmet (which is optional) is included in the price.

You can also choose if you want a day or night tour, personally I think this tour is better in daylight hours.

Where to Stay in Tokyo?

There are plenty of excellent accommodations in Tokyo, and these below are the best, no matter your budget.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo (Rated 9.2/10)

If you’re after luxury with gorgeous views, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo is the spot. Located near Tokyo Tower, this hotel has spacious rooms, top-notch service, and plenty of dining options.

You’ll feel like royalty with its chic design, spa, and lovely garden (consider booking the Garden Suite Room). You’ll get to enjoy a cocktail at the on-site bar or soak in their natural hot spring baths. All in all, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Tokyo.

Mid-Range: Via Inn Prime Akasaka (Rated 9.4/10)

Via Inn Prime Akasaka hits the sweet spot between comfort and affordability. It’s in a buzzing area with plenty of restaurants and easy subway access, making it a great base for your trip to Tokyo.

The rooms are compact but modern and well-designed, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, they throw in little extras like free coffee in the lounge.

It’s perfect if you want convenience without skimping on quality.

Budget: Citan Hostel (Rated 9.2/10)

Citan Hostel is proof that budget doesn’t mean boring. This trendy property is perfect for backpackers and solo travellers.

The dorms and private rooms are simple but stylish, and the shared spaces are great for meeting people.

Their café and bar serve up some solid coffee and craft beers, and the chill vibe makes it feel like a home away from home. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay with personality, this is it!

What to Expect at the Japanese Mario Karts in Tokyo

It’s very much fun driving past famous spots and getting smiles from people you pass by. These karts are easy to drive, and you’ll be part of a cool group rolling through Tokyo’s streets, Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and the Shibuya crossing.

Before you start the go-karting experience, you’ll get your helmet on and learn some important safety tips. It’s a really fun way to see the city, mixing the excitement of a game with exploring great places.

RELATED POST: Unique Things to Do in Kobe, Japan

The Fancy Costume

Once you’ve signed up for the Mario Cart Japan experience, you can choose your fancy dress from a whole rack of costumes.

Now of course the Super Mario characters are the ONLY way to go (like Luigi or Princess Peach), however there are also many other superheroes to choose from, especially for those of you that have a childhood fantasy to live out.

There is even the option to purchase an outfit if you’re keen! Of course, no matter the character you dressed up like (Donkey Kong, Mario, Luigi, etc), please follow your tour guide and all traffic rules.

Is the Mario Kart Tokyo Tour Worth it?

Yes, 100%. It’s truly a one-off, unforgettable experience, where else in the world can you drive Go-Karts around city streets?

I really recommend the Japan Mario Kart tour as a cool way to see Tokyo, you do feel like a celebrity doing it and the foreign tourists love waving and taking photos of you.

Other Tours in Tokyo

Travelling to Tokyo and want to make the most of it? Other than the karting trip, here are other fun tours you can join while in Tokyo.

Getting to Tokyo

KLM UK flies to Tokyo, using Amsterdam as a hub (why not stopover here too?). Going via Amsterdam allows you to fly from 17 UK based airports, rather than only travelling from Manchester or London.

I flew from Southampton, which is hugely convenient for me as my local airport. The changeover in Schiphol is smooth and straightforward, KLM will inform you which gate (sometimes from the arrival plane) your connecting flight will depart from, and you won’t need to collect and check in your luggage again.

I flew to Tokyo as a guest of KLM UK, special thanks to them. My flights to Tokyo were complementary, but return flights from the UK start at £406, including taxes. All of the content, opinions and photography are my own. Please take time to visit KLM UK‘s websites to support me on more adventures like this one!

Conclusion: Tokyo Street Kart Tour

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Have you been to Tokyo? Did you try the Japan Mario Cart experience? Tag me in your photos on Instagram, or I’d love to hear about it in the comments below 🙂