Tokyo Mario Go-Kart
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Since I was googling what to do in Tokyo and this was one of the highly raved touristy thing to do in Tokyo. I was undecided on doing this as I haven’t go-kart before, haven’t been on the road for some time and especially in a new country… Perhaps not worth the risk.
Sharing with my friends and family members, there was a 50/50 opinion that its safe and I will be fine. So without hesitation, I signed up for Akiba Kart 1 hour tour on Klook. It was SGD69 and I decided to add on the waiver, in the event I choose not to go for the Go Kart, I get back 50% of the expense.
Within two days of signing up, I received an email from the operator on things I should bring and the precise venue for the meet up.
Klook.comThings you must take note of when going for Go-Kart
*Always check with your operator if there is any changes
- International Driver’s License (yes, you read it right, to drive on the road you must have a license to begin with)
- Passport and home country license
- Other accessories that you want for safety or fun
- Sunglasses if you are driving in the morning or afternoon during summer especially
- Go – Pro, you can do a rental with the operator and you could add on to this when you purchase on Klook
The experience
I had a little bit of difficulty finding the venue. Walked around the building and found out it was just a basement carpark which could be easily missed. There is a washroom in the vicinity but its best to head to the washroom before visiting the place.
You can bring a small pouch with the licenses and handphone, but you must leave the rest on the tables (unsecured). When I went, there was another person taking care of the shop hence I left my belongings. As a word of caution, its best to keep your valuables with you.
There was a 5 min briefing on how to use the kart, in the event you get separated from the team (which is common if you are at the back of the line) at traffic lines, reminders that you should not use your phone when driving, otherwise you will get fined.
We drove in a single line and I was one of the last few drivers. It was fun. It felt like driving a small minicar on the streets of Tokyo with the wind rushing against your face. The excitement kicked in when trying to catch up with the rest of the tour group and navigating busy junctions. It can be stressful when you miss the traffic light but don’t worry your guide and team will be waiting for you at the corner of the road, so you can join them if you get separated.
Tour Route
The tour didn’t cover Shibuya Crossing (apparently its quite a distance from Akihabara), but it went around Kanda, Kokyo Goen Garden, Otemochi and U turn back to Akihabara.
If your intention is to drive around Shibuya and Shinjuku or even the Tokyo Rainbow Bridge, it is good to check out the routes and research before booking : Usually it will be the 2 hour tours. Advance booking is better as the slots get taken up easily and I doubt you could walk-in.
After the tour, you will be brought back to the same pick up place and you can take your belongings and head off.
So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets on Klook right now