Tokyo Go Kart: Asakusa, Skytree, and Akihabara **IDP MUST**

Driving a go-kart through Tokyo in a cartoon costume is exactly the sort of wonderfully odd experience you remember long after the temples and observation decks blur together. From the Asakusa starting point, you follow a guide through city streets, with Akihabara, Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji, the sumo stadium, and Nihonbashi on the route.

I like the private-tour format, since your group receives direct guidance instead of being mixed into a large crowd. I also like the free photography, including a printed photo, because taking pictures while driving is neither easy nor safe. Guides such as Julian, Lewis, Sergio, Shoma, Rafael, Adam, and Yos have been singled out for friendly instruction and good group control.

The main catch is serious: you cannot simply show up with an online international permit. Every driver needs a hardcopy 1949 Geneva Convention International Driving Permit issued by an official agency in your country, and Japan rejects digital copies and many newer permit types. Sort this out before leaving home.

Key points to know before booking