Tokyo Drift in a Mario Kart
Mario Street Kart Akihabara – Forget bullet trains and bustling subways, for a true taste of Tokyo, there’s only one way to go: strapped behind the wheel of a custom Mario Kart, zipping through the electric streets of Akihabara. Here’s the story of my unforgettable adventure, powered by a surprisingly potent little engine – the GY-50cc scooter motor.
The Humble GY-50cc: Punching Above Its Weight
Before I delve into the neon-drenched streets of Akihabara, let’s talk about the heart of this street-legal Mario Kart – the GY-50cc scooter engine. This little powerhouse is a workhorse in the world of scooters, offering reliable performance and decent fuel efficiency. Don’t be fooled by its size, though. With a single cylinder and a four-stroke design, it packs enough punch to propel the lightweight go-kart at a surprising clip, perfect for navigating the urban jungle.
Akihabara: A Mecca for Tech, Manga, and Now, Go-Karts
Akihabara, or “Akiba” as the locals call it, is a Tokyo district unlike any other. It’s a sensory overload of flashing lights, towering electronics stores, and overflowing manga cafes. Here, towering Gundam statues stand guard over streets lined with shops selling everything from the latest gadgets to obscure anime figurines. Stepping into Akiba is like stepping into a living, breathing anime convention, and now, you can explore it from the driver’s seat of a go-kart.
Gearing Up for Glory
The Mario Street Kart Akihabara company provided all the safety gear – essential for navigating the streets – but the real fun began with the optional costumes. While the go-karts themselves aren’t officially Nintendo-licensed (no red shells here!), you can channel your inner Mario, Luigi, or even Princess Peach. With a bright red cap perched on my head, I felt a surge of childhood nostalgia as I climbed into the vibrantly coloured go-kart. Just a quick reminder, photos and filming are a no-go while driving, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of time for victory snaps at the designated stops.
Hitting the Streets: i
The moment the engine sputtered to life, a thrill shot through me. Here I was, about to weave through the streets of Tokyo in my very own Mario Kart! The tour guide, decked out in his own Luigi costume, provided clear instructions and led the pack at a safe pace. Unlike the chaotic races of the video game, safety is paramount on these tours. Expect a mix of wider avenues and smaller backstreets, perfect for taking in the unique sights and sounds of Akihabara.
A Glimpse of Tokyo Beyond the Go-Kart
One of the unexpected delights of the tour was the opportunity to see Tokyo from a completely different perspective. Cruising past towering skyscrapers, we weaved through bustling intersections, all the while getting friendly waves and excited shouts from pedestrians. It was a truly interactive experience, a chance to connect with the city in a way you wouldn’t from a bus or train.
The Final Lap: Memories Made and Lessons Learned
As the tour drew to a close, I returned the go-kart with a newfound appreciation for Tokyo and its vibrant district of Akihabara. This wasn’t just a tourist attraction; it was an immersive experience. It allowed me to see the city through a brand new lens. Sure, the GY-50cc engine might not be the most powerful, but it provided just the right amount of zip to navigate the streets and create lasting memories.
Beyond the Go-Kart: Exploring Akihabara on Foot
After the tour, I highly recommend exploring Akihabara on foot. Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys, browse the endless rows of anime merchandise. You can also or grab a bite at a local ramen shop. Akihabara has something for everyone. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a manga fanatic, or simply a curious traveler seeking an authentic Tokyo experience.
Looking for an unforgettable adventure in Tokyo? Ditch the traditional sightseeing and strap yourself into a Mario Kart. With a little GY-50cc power and a dash of nostalgia, you’re in for a wild ride through the heart of Akihabara!
Finance Options
You can now finance your bike through our partners at MTF Finance
Finance Available
Finance may be available through MTF Finance Nelson
- Hassle-free application
- Payments you can afford
- Local, personal service.
Offer of finance is subject to terms, conditions, lending criteria, responsible lending inquiries and checks. See mtf.co.nz/terms for details.
Apply For Finance OnlineBUY MOTORCYCLES ON JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE AUCTIONS
Introduction
Motorcycle Auctions – You now have the opportunity to have access to buying any motorcycles and parts with MY50.com via our Japanese motorcycle auctions. Japanese motorcycle auctions offer all kinds of motorcycles from mopeds and scooters to sports bikes and cruisers as well as off-road bikes and vintage motorcycles.
Register to bid.
You can register here to browse and bid on thousands of motorcycles every week. Registration is FREE.