A mesmerizing display of skill and precision—with a top of cultural heritage—yabusame, the Japanese horseback archery, has been captivating archers from around the world. Rightly so, as it captures the harmony between the horse and the rider as well as the archer’s prowess. Let’s delve into yabusame and learn all about it—and for folks looking to experience it firsthand, we will list the best places to experience it in Japan.
Yabusame: What Is It?
Yabusame is a type of traditional mounted archery in Japanese culture. An archer—mounted on a running horse—shoots three special arrows (successively) at three targets, typically made from wood. The arrows are turnip-headed.
Key elements of Japanese horse archery are:
Equestrian skill. Riders must have a high proficiency in horseback riding, as they have to balance themselves on galloping horses while handling a yabusame bow and arrow.
Archery expertise. Riders have to hit designated targets while riding at fast speeds—so they need exceptional archery skills.
As a result of the above two skills, the rider displays a deep connection with the horse as well as archery.
Japanese mounted archery is usually featured in festivals and Shinto rituals all across Japan. This is because yabusame has spiritual as well as cultural significance; see more below.
The History of Japanese Horse Archery
Yabusame dates back to the Kamakura period, somewhere between 1192 and 1333. This is when samurai warriors used it for the preparation of warfare. In addition to martial training, it was used as a spiritual ritual. This practice also became popular in the Heian period, between 794 and 1185—as a means of praying for peace and properity.
Even today, Japanese horseback archery is practiced in its true spirit. In fact, there are a few events that take place today as they did in the twelfth century—and yabusame is one of them. It is believed that this Japanese horse archery was earlier called “yabaseuma” (“ya” meaning “arrow” – “base” coming from “haseru” translating to “to gallop” – and “uma” meaning “horse”) and later was contracted into “yabusame”.
Yabusame Clothing
Japanese mounted archery requires cultural clothing; this usually reflects what samurai warriors wore during their era. This is not only symbolic but also has functional purposes, and includes:
Hakama for the lower body:Pleated traditional Japanese garment worn over the lower body—resembling a divided skirt or perhaps, wide trousers.
Happi over the hakama:Short, traditional Japanese coat with wide sleeves. Alternatively, you can use a jinbaori, which is a sleeveless surcoat. Both garments usually feature the family crest—or mon—of the wearer.
Samue to wear under the hakama: a traditional workwear outfit consisting of a jacket and trousers. (This is used for additional comfort and protection)
Traditional footwear: Among others, these can be jika-tabi (split-toe boots with rubber soles) or waraji (straw sandals worn by samurai soldiers).
Protection material: Gloves to protect hands and arm guards to protect from potential contact with the bowstring. Traditional headgear, such as hachimaki (headband) or eboshi (formal headwear) may also be used depending on the event.
Where to Book a a Yabusame Experience in Japan
For all its difficulties, Japanese horseback archery is an art still practiced and taught today! Below, we’ve listed the best places to book a yabusame experience in Japan—simply book before your next trip to Japan.
*Please note that the prices quoted are as mentioned at the time of publishing. They may vary depending on when you book the experience. The tours may also include plenty of other stops; we will mention the features concerning yabusame
– Participants get dressed in yabusame costumes – Staff walks horse, so no prior skill needed – Experience fee included – Yabusame experience lasts for a 40-minute duration
Attending a yabusame event is the closest you’ll get to meeting a real-life samurai—an opportunity you definitely don’t want to miss. The next time you head to Japan, make sure to add the horseback archery of yabusame to your bucket list; it will be an experience you’ll remember for years to come 🤍 Also—booking experiences with English-speaking guides is something to consider as most of us don’t speak or understand Japanese.
Kintsugi is one of those things that you can only truly experience in Japan. If you’re interested in this form of art, then a visit to a kintsugi workshop is a must-do. And I’ve listed the best classes you can attend while in Japan!
Kintsugi, also known as “golden joinery,” is a unique Japanese art form that transforms broken pottery into a new, beautiful work of art by repairing it with lacquer mixed or dusted with powdered precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum.
Stemming from the Japanese philosophy that values the history and use of an object, kintsugi not only restores functionality but also enhances the object’s aesthetic and sentimental value.
The practice illuminates the repairs, embodying the concept of mushin, (無心) or “no mind,” which is about existing fully within the moment and embracing change and imperfection as intrinsic aspects of life.
The technique is said to have originated in the late 15th century when Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a Japanese shogun, sent a damaged Chinese tea bowl back to China for repair and was dissatisfied with the metal staples used in its mending. This event likely inspired Japanese artisans to create a more aesthetically pleasing method of repair, leading to the birth of kintsugi.
The art form has strong ties with the Japanese tea ceremony and resonates with the philosophical concepts of wabi-sabi, which values imperfection, and “mono no aware,” a sensitivity to the transience of things.
But enough talking. Now it’s time to get your hands dirty—quite literally. The best way to do that? A kintsugi workshop in Tokyo or Kyoto. Just like workshops to make your own chopsticks in Japan, you’ll be able to meet master craftsmen and dive deep into this art. Here’s why.
Importance of Hands-On Experience in Understanding Kintsugi
When you join a Kintsugi workshop, you’re diving deeper than just surface-level understanding. The experience is sensory as much as it’s intellectual. By actually working with the materials—feeling every imperfection in the ceramic, every nuance of the adhesive, and the transformative power of the gold that fills in the cracks—you engage in a richer way with this traditional art. This is how you can really grasp the philosophy behind Kintsugi.
Photo by Riho Kitagawa
In a class setting, you also benefit from hands-on guidance. Mistakes are part of the learning process, and here you can correct them in real time with the help of an experienced instructor. And being around others who share your interest creates a great community vibe that you can’t get from books or videos alone.
So, how do you choose the right kintsugi class? Let’s see the key factors you should consider.
What to Look for in a Kintsugi Workshop
Expertise of the Instructor
A well-qualified and experienced instructor can make a world of difference. They should have a solid background in both the practice and philosophy of kintsugi. Their teaching style should be approachable, and they should be willing to provide individualized guidance throughout the workshop.
Quality of Materials Used
From the ceramic pieces to the adhesive and the gold powder, quality matters. The materials used should be authentic and of high quality to ensure that you’re getting a genuine kintsugi experience.
Photo by Motoki Tonn
Reviews and Ratings
Before booking a kintsugi class in Tokyo or Kyoto, try to check the reviews and ratings. This will give you an idea of what previous participants think of the workshop, from the quality of teaching to the atmosphere and materials provided.
Accessibility and Location
The workshop should be easy to find and accessible by public transportation. Its location also adds to the overall experience; for instance, a workshop in a traditional Japanese setting will provide a more authentic atmosphere.
If this kind of deep, hands-on experience appeals to you, why not also explore the world of Japanese knife-making in a similar workshop setting? It’s another craft that offers a profound insight into Japanese culture.
Kintsugi Tokyo: Top Workshops
Workshop Name
Location
Price
NoteworthyDetails
Reservation Link
Utsuwa Omusubi HANARE
Minami-Aoyama, Tokyo
¥29,000/person ($190/person)
– Private group (only your group) – An interpreter will accompany you – Master instructor certified by the Japan Kintsugi Association – Snacks included – Duration: 2 hours – Minimum age: 12yo – Bring your item home after the lesson
– Wear traditional work clothes – You can bring your own item for the class – Mixed class with 10 participants – Duration: 1 hour – Minimum age: 15yo – Bring your item home after the lesson
– Private group (only your group) – An interpreter will accompany you – Teacher will help you make something you’re proud of – Sign your item – 161 years old establishment – Duration: 2h30 minutes – Bring your item home after the lesson
Taking part in a kintsugi Tokyo or Kyoto workshop can give you a new perspective on this age-old art. You’ll get hands-on practice and real advice from experts, making the philosophy behind kintsugi more relatable. So if you’re curious, give a workshop a try. It’s a great way to dive deeper into a unique tradition and maybe even learn something about yourself.
Ever dreamed of being inside a video game? Yeah, me too. And in Japan, you can do it. For two hours, you can be Luigi, doing real-life Mario Kart in Tokyo, speeding through the streets alongside Mario, Peach, and Donkey Kong. And yes, this is as crazy fun as it sounds. Street go-karting in Japan is a laugh-out-loud, unforgettable experience.
What is Real-Life Mario Kart in Tokyo?
Now you might be asking, “What exactly is real-life Mario Kart in Japan?”. Well, imagine this: you’re in a small, nimble go-kart, speeding through the heart of Tokyo. You’re decked out in an iconic Mario Kart outfit, transforming you into Luigi, Yoshi, or even Princess Peach. Around you, the city buzzes with energy, neon lights flashing, skyscrapers towering, and people gasping at the sight of a real-life Mario Kart rally in action.
So, should you give it a go? Is it worth your precious vacation time? Well, if you ask me, it’s a resounding YES. For a few hours, you’ll be a part of the city’s life.
It’s this connection that makes street go-karting more than just a ride. It’s an intersection of pop culture, gaming nostalgia, and the undeniable charm of Japan. And for those who’ve grown up steering Mario or Luigi to victory on their game consoles, this is the ultimate homage, a chance to step into the screen and live the game. Street go-karting offers an experience that will stay with you long after your trip is over.
This guide guide will walk you through the ins and outs of street go-karting in Japan. From how to book and where to go, to local perspectives and what to expect on the day of your ride. Sit tight; I’m going to guide you through everything you need to know.
Part 1: Which Driving License Do You Need to Participate in Street Go-Karting in Japan
First, you’ll need to be over 18 years old and get your driving credentials sorted. It’s not as complex as it might sound, and this guide will walk you through it. You will need one of those:
Japanese Driving License:
If you’re a resident in Japan, you might already have a Japanese driving license. This is the easiest way to qualify for street go-karting. However, for most visitors, this won’t be the case.
Foreign Driving License:
If you’re from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Estonia, Taiwan, Slovenia, or Monaco, your home country license works, but with a twist — you’ll need an official Japanese translation.
International Driving Permit (IDP):
An IDP is what most foreign tourists will need. You must obtain this permit in your home country before traveling to Japan. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
How to Get an IDP: The process of obtaining an IDP varies from country to country. In the US, you can get one from the AAA for around $20 as of this writing. You’ll need to fill out an application, provide two passport-size photos, and show your original driver’s license.
Be careful though, Japan only recognizes permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is crucial because your IDP will be invalid in Japan if it’s issued under the 1926 Paris Convention, the 1943 Washington Convention, or the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure to check this when you’re obtaining your permit.
SOFA Driving License:
If you’re a member of the U.S. military forces stationed in Japan, a SOFA driving license will suffice. Note that an American driving license with U.S. military ID is also acceptable.
Part 2: How to Book Your Go-Kart Tickets at Popular Locations
Once your license is sorted, you’re ready to secure your spot. Several companies operate these tours. Perhaps you’ve heard of MariCar, but they’ve had to distance themselves from that for trademark reasons. I’ll tell you more about that later.
And Go-karting tours aren’t just limited to Tokyo – you can also find them in Osaka and Okinawa. But since Tokyo is the most visited city, we’ll start there.
Mario Kart in Tokyo
The streets of Tokyo are full of variety and color, making them the perfect backdrop for your go-karting adventure. Here’s a comparative table of the go-karting options in the city:
Location
Duration
Price From
Included
Landmarks
Online Booking
Reviews
Akihabara (Tokyo’s manga & gaming district)
1 or 2 hours
¥11,000
Costumes
Akihabara Electric Town, Mandarake Complex, Radio Kaikan
You can also find go-karting tours in Osaka and Okinawa, and each offers unique sights that make the experience well worth it. Osaka’s bustling streets and modern skyscrapers contrast with Okinawa’s coastal roads and tropical scenery. They provide different, but equally exciting, settings for your go-kart adventure.
Note: Always remember to read the fine print on each tour, especially the cancellation policy. Japan’s weather can be unpredictable, and although you technically can drive a go-kart in the rain, it might not be the most enjoyable experience.
Choose Your Costume:
When you show up for your tour, you get to the fun part: choosing your costume.
You might have dreamed of dressing up like a famous Italian plumber or his brother, but due to some trademark issues and expensive lawsuits, Nintendo characters’ outfits may not be available. Remember I mentioned MariCar above? Well, technically they don’t exist anymore, and Go-Karting companies cannot offer Nintendo costumes anymore. Here’s what happened.
Insider story time: What happened to MariCar?
You’ve probably heard about ‘Mario Kart in Tokyo’. This nickname came about because many Street Go-Karting companies in Japan leveraged the popularity of the video game Mario Kart to attract visitors, offering costumes of characters from the game.
However, this didn’t sit well with Nintendo. In 2017, they decided to sue one such company: Mari Mobility Development Inc., which operated under the name MariCar. The similarity in name—just two letters off and nearly identical in pronunciation—didn’t work in the company’s favor.
By 2020, after several years of legal battles and appeals, MariCar lost the case and was ordered to pay 50 million yen (approximately $475,000 at that time). Subsequently, the company rebranded itself as “Street Kart.”
But 2020 brought another challenge for MariCar—something we all know too well. With the onset of the global pandemic, Japan closed its borders to foreign visitors around April 2020, severely impacting MariCar’s chances of recovery post-lawsuit.
In an attempt to stay afloat, MariCar launched a crowdfunding campaign. Unfortunately, it was a failure. They aimed to raise 2 million yen (about $18,000), but ended up with a mere 11,569 yen (just over $100), supported by only 4 backers.
One critical error was using Campfire, a Japanese crowdfunding site, when their main clientele were foreigners.
Despite these setbacks, MariCar managed to survive. They reopened in 2023, coinciding with the return of international tourism to Japan.
Now, if you visit their website, a pop-up clarifies that they have no affiliation with Mario Kart and no longer offer Mario Kart-themed costumes for rent.
I hope you enjoyed this little background information. Now, let’s return to our main topic!
But don’t worry – there’s a wide variety of other fun costumes to choose from. And if you prefer, you can skip the costume altogether.
Street Go-Karting in the streets of Asakusa, Tokyo
Part 3: Safety, Regulations, and Public Sentiment
I might be killing the fun here, but there’s one crucial aspect I couldn’t leave out of this guide: safety and regulations.
Road Rules & Safety
Street go-karting in Japan adheres to the same traffic rules applicable to all road users. In regards to the law, you’re driving a real vehicle on real roads. As such, you’ll have to stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians, stay within speed limits, and unfortunately, no, you won’t be able to throw bananas at other drivers 🙁
Safety instructions will be given before the tour, and following them is paramount to enjoy a fun and safe experience.
It’s also worth noting that helmets aren’t mandatory for go-kart drivers in Japan, but the rental shops may offer them for those who want to wear one.
Legal Regulations
To participate in street go-karting, you need a valid international driving permit (Class A) or a Japanese driving license, as I detailed in the Part 1 of this guide. There’s no room for negotiation here; it’s a requirement of Japanese law.
And of course, you cannot participate in the tour if you’ve been drinking.
What do locals think about it?
This is a question I get a lot. And if you read comments online, Japanese locals have mixed feelings about the go-karting phenomenon.
Some find amusement in this spectacle, sometimes waving at, smiling, or even encouraging participants.
However, not everyone is in favor. Concerns exist regarding noise and safety hazards, especially since drivers are visitors unfamiliar with Japanese traffic rules.
This lack of support was proved when MariCar attempted to raise money to stay afloat during COVID. They managed to get only 4 backers in total, and we can imagine they might have been the owners and employees themselves.
But the truth is, most people don’t really care. Kart tours do not go through residential areas, so locals will only see them when going to Shibuya, Shinjuku, or other big central areas. And a few small karts amongst the craziness of say, a Shibuya Crossing, are barely noticeable.
Overall, you don’t need to worry too much about it. Just remember to respect local culture, adhere to traffic rules, and follow safety measures to ensure go-karting remains a fun experience for both drivers and locals.
Part 4: Tips to Enjoy Street Go-Karting
What to Wear
You can wear a costume over your usual clothes, but depending on the season, you might want to adjust.
In summer, a T-shirt and shorts are recommended as the weather can get really hot. But in winter, layer up! Driving in the open kart can get chilly.
And regardless of the season, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Best Times to Go
Street Go-Karting in Namba, Osaka during the night
The best time to go street go-karting really depends on the kind of experience you’re after.
Daytime offers excellent visibility and plenty of chances to wave at awestruck pedestrians. But I’d recommend going for the evening, though, to enjoy the city’s dazzling neon lights – a wholly different experience.
Capture the Best Moments
You might be tempted to snap a selfie while you’re tearing down the asphalt, but I’d advise against it. Remember the safety instructions? Keeping your hands on the wheel is one of them.
Instead, I recommend a body-mounted action camera to capture your experience hands-free. Some tour providers even offer action photos as part of their package.
Also, don’t worry about missing a good shot. The guides are pretty good at figuring out the best photo spots and will gladly help you capture those cool Instagram shots.
Part 5: Participant Reviews: What People are Saying
Street go-karting in Tokyo is more than just an activity – it’s an exhilarating, unforgettable adventure.
At least, this is what most reviews say. Here are some sentiments shared by other participants (reviews are from Klook and TripAdvisor):
“This was a really fun experience driving over the streets of Tokyo! I would thoroughly recommend this for anyone who loves driving and wants a novel way of seeing the sights!“
Street Go Karting Experience in Akihabara
“Best thing we did in Tokyo! Tour guides are great fun and elevate the experience massively. Felt safe the whole time as the instructions from the guides took all the worry out of it. Would definitely do again!
Small Group Go Kart Experience in Shinjuku
With a carefully planned itinerary and a guide always ready to capture those memorable moments, it seems like street go-karting provides not just fun, but also a great way to explore the city:
“Great way to start the trip. It allowed us to drive around the streets of Tokyo to see what we wanted to go and see. The guide has planned a great itinerary and is always taking photos so you can remember your trip.“
Street Go Karting Experience in Akihabara
The thrill of the drive, coupled with the iconic sights of Tokyo and the attentiveness of the guides, is enough to have some participants wishing to do it all over again:
“Had a great time driving through Tokyo. The guide took great pics and was very attentive stopping and asking if we were OK. Would definitely do it again when I go back.“
Street Go Karting Experience in Akihabara
And the experience isn’t just limited to the young or fit. As one participant points out, this is an experience for everyone, regardless of age or body size:
“…I want to make a special mention that this attraction is suitable for all ages and body sizes. I am a 63-year-old guy who is heavy – 145kg (320 pounds)… if an old fat guy can ride this and have a good time, anyone should be able to.“
Street Kart Shibuya
Part 6: Alternatives to Street Go-Karting
While street go-karting is a fun experience, it might not be for everyone, whether it’s due to personal preference or inability to meet the driving requirements. Luckily, Tokyo offers a myriad of unique activities for exploring the city:
For instance, you can opt for a cycling tour around Tokyo to experience the city’s hustle and bustle at a leisurely pace.
If you want a more traditional experience, rickshaw rides in Asakusa provide a unique and culturally immersive way to explore the city.
Alternatively, you might prefer a bird’s eye view of Tokyo. Helicopter sightseeing tours provide a stunning perspective on the metropolis, allowing you to marvel at the city’s sprawling landscape from a vantage point few get to experience.
Driving around Tokyo’s bustling streets is thrilling, fun, and incredibly memorable. Here are the takeaways from this guide:
Make sure you carry your international driving permit to be able to participate.
The go-karting tours are available in various locations across Tokyo, but also in Osaka and Okinawa.
Depending on the package you choose, your tour might last anywhere from one to three hours.
Booking in advance is necessary, especially for groups or during peak tourist seasons.
Keep in mind the safety regulations and driving rules. Even though it’s fun, it’s a real road driving experience.
That sums up the go-karting experience in Japan. Now we’ll tackle the questions I’ve heard the most often in the bonus section of this guide.
Bonus: FAQ
Q: Is it worth it to try street go-karting? A: To me (and looking at the reviews, to other customers), it’s a resounding YES. It’s a unique, memorable, and fun-filled adventure.
Q: Is a driving license necessary to participate? A: Yes, you need a valid driving license to drive a street go-kart in Japan.
Q: Can I use my international or country-specific license? A: Yes, both international and certain country-specific licenses are accepted, provided they are valid and appropriate for driving motor vehicles in Japan. Please check the Driving License Requirements section of this guide for more detailed information.
Q: How much does a street go-karting tour cost? A: Prices can range from ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 ($55 to $105) per person, depending on the duration and route of the tour.
Q: How long does a tour last? A: Tours can last between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the package chosen.
Q: When’s the best time to go karting? A: You can enjoy go-karting at any time of the day. Evening rides can be particularly fun with the city lights on, but each time of day offers a unique experience.
Q: Do I need a reservation for the go-kart tour or can I just show up? A: It’s always best to reserve your spot in advance. Most companies are often fully booked several days or even weeks ahead, especially the popular ones in Tokyo.
Q: I don’t have a driving license. Are there options like two-seater karts or alternate transportation methods? A: No, unfortunately. Most companies offer only single-seater karts, and they don’t typically provide alternate means of transportation for those without a license.
Q: Are there age restrictions for driving the go-karts? A: Yes, participants need to be at least 18 years old to drive.
Q: Are there any weight or height restrictions? A: Most companies do not have specific height or weight limits. However, if you’re worried that you might not fit into the kart or that your feet won’t reach the pedals, it’s worth checking directly with the company.
Q: Can I bring my kids along? Are there two-seater karts available? A: Most companies only have single-seater karts, so kids usually can’t participate as passengers. It’s always best to confirm with the specific company, just in case.
Q: What about the Mario/Nintendo based costumes I’ve heard about? A: Companies are no longer offering Mario/Nintendo based costumes due to copyright issues. But don’t worry, there’s still a fun variety of costumes to choose from!
Q: How big are the groups? A: Group sizes are usually around 6 to 8 participants, but some tours go up to around 15 go-karts.
Q: Are there safety measures like seatbelts? A: Go-karts typically don’t have seatbelts as they are low-speed vehicles. Note that there’s always a English-speaking professional guide leading the group.
Q: What happens if there’s bad weather like rain or snow? A: If the weather turns out bad, the tour might get canceled by the operator. In this case, you will receive a full refund.
Q: Can I cancel my reservation without charge? A: Cancellation policies can vary by company. It’s best to check the company’s terms and conditions before booking for their specific policy.
