An Unforgettable Gourmet Night Exploring Tokyo by Street Kart and Izakaya!
Tokyo nights have incredible energy. The neon lights of Shinjuku, the bustling crowds of Shibuya, and the aroma of yakitori drifting from hidden alleyway izakayas. Every friend I’ve brought from Brazil says the same thing: “Tokyo izakayas are amazing!” But here’s the thing—just enjoying izakayas isn’t enough. Racing through Tokyo’s streets on a Street Kart, then settling into a local izakaya for cold beer. This combination is so much fun, words can’t do it justice.
Experience Tokyo on a Street Kart Before Your Izakaya Adventure
The sensation of zooming through Tokyo’s streets at ground level—that’s what Street Kart is all about. With a guide leading the way in tour format, even first-timers can relax and enjoy the ride. The excitement of passing through areas near Shibuya’s famous scramble crossing or catching glimpses of Tokyo Tower gets my heart racing no matter how many times I experience it. This open-air go-kart experience on public roads is a uniquely Japanese activity you won’t find anywhere else.
Since tours follow set routes, you don’t need to worry about navigation. Even when joining with foreign friends, English service is available, so language isn’t a barrier. As a native Portuguese speaker, I had no problems enjoying myself. The website supports 22 languages, making reservations super easy.
Carrying that post-tour excitement straight into a nearby izakaya—I can’t get enough of this flow, and I always recommend it to friends. Something about beer after racing through the city just tastes better, you know?
Tokyo’s Best Izakaya Areas and Their Unique Charms
Tokyo’s izakayas have completely different vibes depending on the area. Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho has tiny shops packed into narrow alleys, preserving that Showa-era atmosphere. Drinking shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers amid wafting smoke—this isn’t common in Brazil, so I was surprised at first, but now I love this closeness.
Shibuya’s “Nonbei Yokocho” has great energy and is super fun. Small establishments cluster together, and every place feels like a winner. Yakitori, motsuni, sashimi—everything you order satisfies. Friends visiting from overseas keep saying, “It’s hard to find places this affordable and delicious.”
Ebisu and Nakameguro offer a more relaxed atmosphere for when you want a calmer drinking experience. Perfect for dates or nights when you want to slowly savor sake. All these areas are close to routes covered by Street Kart tours, so you can head straight over after your ride.
Why People Choose Street Kart
Street Kart offers so many unique attractions you won’t find elsewhere. First, their track record of over 150,000 tours is impressive. The peace of mind that comes from 1.34 million satisfied customers speaks volumes. With an average rating of 4.9/5.0 based on more than 20,000 reviews, quality is guaranteed.
They have 6 locations in Tokyo, plus shops in Osaka and Okinawa, so you can enjoy the experience across Japan. With over 250 karts available, they can accommodate groups—though keep in mind groups are limited to 6 people, so check in advance for larger parties.
Having guides trained specifically for foreign drivers is another major Street Kart advantage. As an industry first, this means even those worried about language barriers can participate with confidence. You can check driver’s license requirements on their official site beforehand.
Wearing costumes while driving adds to the fun. Please note that Mario Kart-related costumes are not available.
How to Enjoy Izakayas and Must-Try Menu Items
When you enter an izakaya, start with draft beer for a toast! That’s the Japanese way. In Brazil, we’d order caipirinhas right away, but in Japan, starting with beer is standard. Snacking on edamame while browsing the menu is part of the fun.
Yakitori is an essential classic. “Negima” (chicken and green onion) and “tsukune” (chicken meatballs) are reliable choices at any shop. Can’t decide between sauce or salt? Ask the staff for recommendations. With a smile, you’ll manage even without Japanese! Never underestimate the power of body language and a friendly grin.
A sashimi platter is a Japanese luxury not to be missed. Being able to eat fresh fish in Tokyo feels like a dream come true for someone from landlocked São Paulo. Budget around 3,000 to 5,000 yen per person, including drinks, for a satisfying experience. Hours vary by establishment, but many izakayas open around 5 PM and stay open late into the night.
The Perfect Day Plan: Street Kart Plus Izakaya
Here’s my recommended plan. Join an afternoon tour and race through Tokyo for 1-2 hours. Passing through routes around Shibuya and Shinjuku, you’ll feel Tokyo’s energy with your whole body. By the time the tour ends, izakayas are just starting to open.
After the tour, change clothes and head to a nearby izakaya area. Beer after working up a sweat tastes exceptional. Chatting with friends about how amazing that intersection was while drinking—those are the truly enjoyable moments.
You can find more tour information here to help plan your visit. Reservations are easy through kart.st. If you want to create lasting memories in Tokyo, try the Street Kart and izakaya combo! An experience unique to Tokyo awaits, fun for everyone regardless of nationality!
Costume Information
Please note that we do not rent Nintendo or “Mario Kart” related costumes. We only provide costumes that respect intellectual property rights.
