How to experience real life Mario Kart in Tokyo

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at no cost to you) if you click or purchase from them. Thanks for supporting cityandsee (and my coffee habit ).

This post is a long time coming! This past April we finally marked another item off of our massive Japan bucketlist! Dress up in your favorite character, step into your very own Mario Kart in Tokyo and explore the busy streets. Need I say more? Everyone who has this experience often has the question – “how in the world in this legal?” In most cities it wouldn’t be, but somehow in the largest city in the world – it is. Whenever people ask me about must do’s on their visit to Japan- I have to mention this heart racing experience because it is so unique, and Mario Kart in Tokyo really is an awesome way to see the iconic sights!

Note: As of October 2018, Mario Kart won their lawsuit in Tokyo District Court, where MariCar needs to cease and desist using costumes that resemble Nintendo characters. But they have plenty of other costumes to wear while adventuring through the streets. You can now Go Cart like a “Real Life Superhero.”

The Details of Go Carting in Tokyo:

Paperwork:

/ This is the most important thing to mention! You need one of the following to be eligible, and they will check when you show up for your reservation and when you initially make the reservation.

A Japanese driving license
A SOFA driving license – for members of the military forces in Japan
An international driving permit with passport – This applies to most people simply visiting Japan. it needs to be obtained outside of Japan and lasts for a year. you can obtain one at your local AAA and is usually about $20.00.

Booking:

/ We booked through MariCAR and I highly suggest them. We have many friends who have experienced multiple tours with them and they made us feel extremely comfortable.

/ You can reserve your spots through facebook messenger – the process could not have been easier! They can help with tour times etc.

Pricing:

The price depends on which tour you choose, and that is totally up to you.

/ Select route – We chose the Shinagawa #1 tour which started in Shinagawa and took us to the Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing.

/ Select time – We picked one at 4pm and we were able to see Shibuya crossing during the day AND during the night. if you can’t decide, I would select this one. Make sure to dress warm if your tour is at night!

If you have any additional questions about this experience or booking, reach out to MariCAR on facebook, leave me a comment or message me over on Instagram!