While getting fast and furious on the streets of Tokyo in a Mario Kart-esque go-kart seems like a fun idea, a surge in eager tourists getting in on the action has led to unintended consequences, as go-kart-related accidents become more prevalent.
A go-kart experience in Tokyo includes a guided tour across the city, and plenty of photo-ops, even on the road, which has led to concerned pedestrian complaints about kart drivers taking selfies while ignoring traffic lights. There are currently multiple companies in Tokyo contributing to the boom in the go-kart hype, and you can even dress up as Mario characters while in a kart.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has requested operators to enhance their safety measures for visitors intending to go-kart in the city after it reported more than 100 incidents concerning noise and traffic violations in 2023 alone.
Being Mario comes with great responsibility, and unlike the whimsical world of Super Mario Bros., road laws apply if you’re planning to go-kart in Tokyo, so drive safely, and remember, spinny shells don’t exist in real life.
Trinity is a geek who enjoys watching anime, superhero and Sci-Fi movies and TV shows. She enjoys gaming (however has terrible gacha luck) and creates cool homebrew campaigns in her free time. She’s always up for a new adventure — with a cosy jacket and a good book in hand.
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