Experience Tokyo in a New Way: The GoKart Tokyo Oldtown Tour

Imagine zipping through Tokyo’s bustling streets in a street-legal Go Kart, feeling the wind and taking in the sights from a perspective most travelers never get. For just $94 per person, this 100-minute adventure offers a chance to see some of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks, all while enjoying a fun, guided ride. Starting near the Tokyo Skytree, you’ll hop into your comfortable, well-maintained Go Kart, don a costume, and set off on a route that takes in Tokyo Skytree, Japan Sword Museum, Ryogoku Sumo Stadium, Tokyo Station, Imperial Palace, Akihabara, Ueno, and the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa.
What we love about this tour? First, the guides are locals who know their city and stories, making the experience both fun and educational. Second, the photos and videos offered as souvenirs capture your journey—an excellent way to relive the adventure later. A potential consideration? Since this is a street-based tour, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable driving, possess the proper licenses, and enjoy an active sightseeing experience.
This experience is perfect if you’re after something unconventional and interactive—a way to explore Tokyo’s highlights with a sense of adventure, not just standing on the sidelines. It’s especially appealing to those who want a mix of sightseeing and adrenaline, and who appreciate guides that make navigation easy and enjoyable.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Authentic Exploration: Drive through Tokyo’s streets, visiting landmarks many travelers only see from afar.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides provide interesting stories and translate license requirements.
- Great Value: For about 100 minutes, you get a full tour, photos, insurance, and a costume—all for under $100.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for beginners, young, or old drivers who meet licensing requirements.
- Safety & Comfort: The Go Karts are well-maintained, and safety is emphasized.
- Flexible Payment: Book now, pay later—easy to plan your trip with no upfront cost.
Planning more time in Tokyo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Practical Look at the Oldtown Tour

If you’re curious whether this Go Kart tour is worth the price, consider what’s included. For $94, you’re getting a comprehensive, guided 100-minute experience that takes you past some of Tokyo’s most recognizable landmarks. The route begins near the Tokyo Skytree, giving you a stunning view of one of Japan’s tallest structures, and then continues through diverse neighborhoods.
As you weave through the streets, your guide—presumably someone like Sater, who’s praised for speaking excellent English—fills you in on the history, stories, and fun facts about each site. This makes the experience educational as well as exhilarating. The Ryogoku Sumo Stadium, for instance, offers a glimpse into Japan’s beloved sumo tradition, while the Imperial Palace provides a view of Tokyo’s imperial past and present.
The route also includes Akihabara, the electronics and anime district, and Ueno, known for its parks and museums. The tour concludes back at the starting point, near the same station you began.
What’s It Like to Drive a Go Kart in Tokyo?

Driving a street-legal Go Kart through Tokyo’s congested, lively streets might sound intimidating, but the guides are experienced and safety-conscious. Reviewers repeatedly emphasize how easy and safe the karts are to operate, even for beginners. One traveler mentioned, “The go karts were easy to drive and Travis was an excellent guide,” highlighting how approachable the experience can be.
The tour’s cost includes fuel, insurance, a costume, and helpful guidance—making it a straightforward activity. You’ll also receive videos and photos of your jaunt, which are fantastic keepsakes (just remember to buy a Micro-SD card if you want to keep them).
While the official requirements for licenses can seem complex—like needing an International Driving Permit or a Japanese license—this process is clarified by the guides, who often assist in translating and explaining the licensing needs for international visitors.
The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at the Kartzilla facility, located just an 8-10 minute walk from Yotsugi Station, the experience kicks off with a safety briefing and fitting into your costume—adding a playful element to your adventure. Once suited up, you’ll hop into your Go Kart and begin your tour.
The route is designed to maximize sightseeing within the 100-minute window:
- Tokyo Skytree — The tallest tower in Japan, offering a striking backdrop as you zoom past.
- Japan Sword Museum — A glimpse into Japan’s samurai past, often overlooked by travelers.
- Ryogoku Sumo Stadium — The heart of sumo, where the mighty wrestlers compete.
- Tokyo Station — The iconic red-brick station and symbol of Tokyo’s modernization.
- Imperial Palace — The seat of Japan’s Imperial family, with its sprawling grounds.
- Akihabara — The electric town, full of quirky shops and anime culture.
- Ueno — Known for its parks, zoo, and museums.
- Sensoji Temple in Asakusa — Tokyo’s oldest temple and a bustling hub full of shops and traditional sights.
The tour ends back at the starting point, completing your Tokyo sightseeing in a way few other experiences can match—by combining urban exploration with a fun, interactive twist.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity, Safety, and the Value

Authentic Tokyo experience and value are what this tour offers. For a reasonable price, you get an active, guided adventure that feels more like a local jaunt than a tourist trap. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides and how they make navigating Tokyo’s busy streets feel safe and manageable. As one traveler stated, “Felt safe the entire time, guide very clear with instructions.”
The photos and videos are a thoughtful addition, allowing you to share your adventure. Keep in mind that your micro-SD card purchase is necessary if you want to keep these souvenirs. Also, because this is a street tour, appropriate licenses are required, so check your documents beforehand.
Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys active sightseeing—and don’t mind a bit of street traffic—this is a fantastic way to see Tokyo from a different perspective. It’s ideal for adventure-seekers, families with older kids, or anyone who appreciates guides who can share local stories while navigating the city’s streets.
It’s not suitable for little kids under 18, anyone with mobility issues, or those with vision impairments. But if you’re comfortable behind the wheel and want to add some adrenaline to your Tokyo trip, this experience offers a memorable, engaging twist on sightseeing.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time and Money?

This Go Kart Tokyo Oldtown Tour offers a unique blend of sightseeing, fun, and local insight. For just under $100, you’ll see some of Tokyo’s most iconic spots while enjoying the thrill of driving a street-legal Go Kart through the city’s streets. The knowledgeable local guides, who are praised for their clear instructions and engaging stories, turn what could be a stressful activity into a safe, enjoyable adventure.
If you’re looking for an unconventional way to explore Tokyo and want to capture some great photos along the way, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter city tours. The safety, comfort, and flexibility make it a very good value, offering a memorable, uplifting Tokyo highlight.
However, be sure to meet the license requirements and be comfortable with street driving. It’s best for those who love a little thrill and have a sense of humor about donning costumes and zipping through Japan’s capital.
FAQ

Do I need a special license to join this tour?
Yes, you must have a valid license depending on your nationality. Japanese residents need a Japanese license, while foreign visitors should have an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention. U.S. military personnel can use a SOFA permit or state license plus a military ID.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 100 minutes, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Kartzilla Go Kart Facility, near Yotsugi Station, and wraps up back at the same location.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the Go Kart, fuel, a guide, a costume, accident insurance, and drinks. Photos and videos are also provided, but you’ll need to buy a Micro-SD card if you want to keep the files.
Is this activity suitable for children?
No, it’s generally not for children under 18, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or visual impairments.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport and driver’s license. Dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor activity; no pets, food, drinks, or backpacks are allowed in the vehicle.
This street-based Go Kart tour in Tokyo combines sightseeing, fun, and local insights into one exhilarating package. If you’re after an authentic and memorable way to explore Tokyo’s highlights, it’s a surprisingly good value and a unique adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Tokyo
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