Osaka Street Go Kart Tours

Drive through the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori and Namba in full costume—the ultimate real-life video game experience.

Disclaimer: This is not an official website. All content is for informational purposes only. We may earn commission from bookings.

1 - 2 Hours
1 Languages
Small groups (Max 8-10 drivers)
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place

Experience

The Ultimate Osaka Street Kart Experience

Experience Osaka like never before by driving a custom-built go-kart on real public streets. Far more than just a sightseeing tour, this is an adrenaline-pumping adventure that puts you center stage in one of Japan's most vibrant cities. Dressed in your favorite character costume, you'll zip through the bustling districts of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Dotonbori, waving to pedestrians and soaking up the electric atmosphere. Whether you choose a daytime cruise to Osaka Castle or a neon-soaked night drive through Americamura, this is the most unique way to explore the heart of Kansai. **Crucial:** A valid International Driving Permit (Geneva 1949 convention) is legally required for all drivers.

4.9/5
Guest Rating
20K+
Happy Drivers
1-2 Hrs
Duration
Daily
Availability

Why Book With Us

Official Verified Operators

We only partner with fully licensed tour providers who adhere to strict Japanese traffic safety laws and maintain their fleets to the highest standards

Top-Rated Experiences

Access tours with over 3,000+ five-star reviews, ensuring you're booking the most popular and trusted routes in Osaka

Small Group Safety

Tours are kept to manageable sizes with lead and tail guides to ensure no one gets left behind in Osaka traffic

Instant Confirmation

Secure your spot immediately for this sell-out activity, especially during peak cherry blossom and autumn seasons

Flexible Cancellation

Plans change? Enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour start time for complete peace of mind

License Verification Support

Our booking pages provide clear, up-to-date guidance on exactly which driving permits you need to avoid disappointment at the counter

Funny costume rental
Street go-karting experience
Explore Osaka streets
Drive real motor karts

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

License Requirements
International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention) HARD COPY required
Passport
Home country license
Restrictions
Height: 150cm-185cm recommended
Weight: Max ~100kg
No high heels or sandals
What to Wear
Comfortable shoes
Windbreaker (for speed)
Costumes provided
Weather
Tours run in light rain
Severe weather reschedules
Winter requires gloves/warm layers

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book at least 2 weeks in advance for cherry blossom season
  • Choose the sunset slot for the best lighting transition
  • Double-check your IDP validity before leaving home
  • Arrive 30 minutes early for costume selection

What to Bring

  • International Driving Permit (Physical Booklet)
  • Passport
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera (with mount)
  • Warm layers (Winter)

Best Seasons to Visit

Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms|Autumn (Oct-Nov) for pleasant weather|Summer evenings for warm night rides

What to Wear

Closed-toe shoes (Sneakers) are mandatory|Avoid long skirts or loose pants that could catch in wheels|Bring layers/gloves for winter rides|Sunglasses recommended for day tours

Planning

Historical Context

While go-karting is modern, the route passes Osaka Castle (built 1583) and Tsutenkaku (the 'Eiffel Tower of Osaka'), contrasting 21st-century fun with deep history.

Photography Tips

  • Mount a GoPro to your chest or head strap
  • Ask the guide to take photos at red lights
  • Don't try to take selfies while moving (strictly prohibited)

Insider Tips

  • Bring a pouch for your phone/wallet (no pockets in costumes)
  • Wear contact lenses instead of glasses if possible (helmets/wind)
  • Go to the bathroom before starting (no stops during the drive)

Our Partners

  • Tours operated by Akiba Kart Osaka, Street Kart, and other verified local partners.

Fun Facts

  • You can drive up to 60km/h on these karts!
  • Pedestrians in Osaka are famous for their friendliness and will high-five you at crosswalks.
  • The karts are classified as 'micro-cars' in Japan.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. No refunds for late arrivals or missing documentation (IDP/Passport).

Social Media

Share your experience: #OsakaGoKart #StreetKart #MarioKartOsaka #JapanTravel #VisitOsaka #TravelJapan #BucketList

Explore More

More Things to Do in Osaka

Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
USA • 2025-01-15

Highlight of our Japan trip!

This was absolutely arguably the best thing we did in Osaka. Driving through Dotonbori with everyone waving at us made me feel like a celebrity. The guides were super safety-conscious but made it so fun. Don't forget your IDP!

L
Liam Thompson
Australia • 2024-12-10

Exhilarating experience

Great way to see the city. The karts are faster than I expected! We did the night tour and the neon lights were incredible. The costume selection was hilarious. Highly recommend booking in advance.

M
Marco Rossi
Italy • 2024-11-22

Fun but cold in winter

Very fun experience. The guides spoke good English. It was quite cold in November so definitely bring gloves and a warm jacket under your costume. The route to Osaka Castle was beautiful.

W
Wei Chen
Taiwan • 2025-02-01

Must do in Osaka

My license needed a translation which I prepared, and everything went smoothly. The staff was very helpful. Driving on the left side was easy with the guide leading. Super fun!

E
Emily Clarke
UK • 2024-10-05

Unforgettable

I was nervous about driving in traffic but the guides protect you the whole way. We stopped for photos at the best spots. The karts are easy to drive. 10/10 would do again.

H
Hans Mueller
Germany • 2024-09-12

Great organization

Professional team. They checked documents thoroughly (make sure you have the 1949 IDP!). The tour itself was a blast, cruising through America-mura was cool. Good value for money.

J
Jessica Lee
Singapore • 2025-01-20

So much fun!

Booked this for my husband's birthday and we loved it. The costumes are clean and there are so many to choose from. The view of Tsutenkaku Tower from the kart is amazing.

D
David Wilson
Canada • 2024-11-30

Iconic Osaka experience

If you have the proper license, do not skip this. It's surreal driving a kart next to regular cars. The guides take photos for you which they airdrop at the end. Awesome service.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know for your journey

Experience

Ready for Adventure?

Join thousands of happy travelers who have discovered this incredible experience

Book Your Experience Now
4.9/5
Free Cancellation
24/7 Support