Street kart tours are a popular way to see central Tokyo from a different angle. Before you book one, there are a few things to check, and the most important is your driving license. This guide goes through what to check, using the Japan Automobile Federation’s rules and one example listing on GetYourGuide.

Step 1: Check that your license is valid in Japan

According to the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), holders of an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued abroad under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic can drive in Japan. IDPs issued under other treaties, such as the 1968 Vienna Convention, are not valid in Japan. JAF also says that licenses issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco or Taiwan can be used with a Japanese translation carried alongside the original license. In both cases, a foreign license is no longer valid for driving in Japan one year after you enter the country. For questions about your own license, JAF points visitors to the Driver’s License Center of the prefectural police.

Step 2: Read the tour’s document requirements

The example listing we looked at (Shibuya and Shinjuku Streets Guided Go-Karting Tour, checked on October 25, 2026) says that you must bring your passport, your original driver’s license and your international driving permit (booklet type), and that all three are required. It says drivers from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan need an official Japanese translation of their license instead of an IDP. It also says the operator cannot give refunds if you arrive with invalid or incorrect documents, and that it is your responsibility to make sure your license is valid. Requirements can change, so read the current listing before you book.

Step 3: Check who can take part

The listing says the tour is not suitable for people under 17, people under 145 cm (4 ft 8 in) or over 200 cm (6 ft 6 in) tall, or people over 100 kg (220 lbs). It does not allow alcohol or drugs, and it says anyone found intoxicated will be denied participation without a refund. It also asks you not to wear high heels, sandals or flip flops.

Step 4: Check the cancellation and weather policy

The listing offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a “reserve now and pay later” option. It also says the tour needs good weather, and that if it is canceled because of poor conditions you can get a full refund or reschedule. Check the current terms on the listing page before you book.

Step 5: Plan your timing

According to the listing, the tour lasts one hour, with a 15-minute safety briefing, and you should arrive 20 minutes before your tour time to check in. The meeting point is near Shinjuku Central Park, about a 20-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, and the route passes places such as Yoyogi Park, Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku and Kabukicho. The listing says groups are limited to 8 people and may be divided into smaller groups for safety. Leave extra time before and after the tour.

Where to book

GetYourGuide lists this tour, and other tours and day trips in Tokyo. Each listing shows its own price, guide language and cancellation terms, so compare them before you book.

Sources: Japan Automobile Federation, “Valid Driving License” (driving in Japan with a foreign license); GetYourGuide listing for the Shibuya and Shinjuku Streets Guided Go-Karting Tour (checked October 25, 2026). Photos: Pexels (Ricardo Oliveira, Harun).

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