Japanese Mario Kart in the Streets of Tokyo: 2024 Guide

If you haven’t already seen the videos online, you can dress up as Super Mario Kart characters and drive (legally) around the streets of Tokyo. This is the Japanese Mario Kart experience for you.

Imagine this: You’re cruising through the neon-lit streets and other spots in Tokyo, dressed as your favourite Mario Kart character, with wind in your hair, and a grin plastered on your face.

No, this isn’t a dream or some wild Nintendo ad it’s real life! In this guide, we’ll discuss the ultimate bucket-list experience: driving a Mario Kart in the heart of Tokyo, how much is Mario Kart in Japan, and everything in between.

I personally did it and it was an amazing trip. Buckle up, this is going to be one wild ride!

Japanese Mario Kart: Introduction

Before going through the main details, let’s start with all the essentials you should know before visiting, such as the Mario Kart in Tokyo price, the requirements, and more.

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.

Is the Real Life Mario Kart Japan Legal?

Yes, the real-life Mario Kart Japan experience is legal, but with specific regulations. Participants must have a valid Japanese driver’s license or an international driving permit.

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

Mario Kart Japan Requirements

To join the Real Life Mario Kart in Tokyo, there are a few key requirements:

• A valid driver’s 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 cost £5.50.

Is the Japanese Mario Kart Safe?

Yes, the Japanese Mario Kart experience in Tokyo is generally safe. Operators prioritise safety with helmets and safety briefings, 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. All in all, was it worth it? 100%!

Mario Kart Tokyo Price

The price for the Real Life Mario Kart experience in Tokyo varies depending on the tour length and package you choose. Generally speaking, expect to pay around US$110 – US$120 per person.

This price includes the kart rental, costume rental, and a guide to lead the group.

There are many options when it comes to the Mario Kart Japan price, there are currently 7 Maricar stores in Tokyo! I went with Akihabara tour company, and I was very happy with the overall 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.

Luxury: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo

Mid-Range: Via Inn Prime Akasaka

Budget: Citan Hostel

What to Expect at the Japanese Mario Karts in Tokyo

Get ready for an awesome ride with this Tokyo Mario Kart real life! Picture yourself zooming through the city, dressed up like a character from your favourite video game.

It’s super 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 the streets, Tokyo Bay, and the Shibuya crossing.

Before you start the go kart tour, 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 new places.

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 costume you choose, please follow your guide and all traffic rules.

Is the Mario Kart Experience in Tokyo Worth it?

The Mariokart in Japan is truly a one-off 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 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 Japanese Mario Kart, 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. 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!

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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 🙂