Experience Tokyo’s Local Specialty Shopping with Street Kart! Hidden Gems and a Fresh Way to Explore the City
There’s that moment when you grip the steering wheel, looking down at Shibuya’s famous scramble crossing. The Tokyo adventure about to unfold isn’t just ordinary sightseeing. It’s a completely new way to experience the city—combining the thrill of cutting through the wind on a street kart with visits to beloved local specialty shops.
Hunting for Treasures You Can Only Find in Tokyo
What comes to mind when you think of Tokyo souvenirs? The truth is, this city hides countless specialty shops that most tourists never discover. Around Asakusa, traditional Japanese confectionery shops dating back to the Edo period dot the streets. In the Nihonbashi area, specialty stores line up showcasing traditional crafts made by skilled artisans. Ginza offers upscale food select shops, while Ueno’s Ameyoko market sells dried goods and seafood at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Here’s what makes it interesting—these areas happen to be scattered around the Street Kart tour routes. You can plan a specialty shopping adventure using the time before or after your tour. Cruise past landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge, then explore hidden shops where locals actually shop. This combination has been quietly gaining popularity among international visitors.
Why Street Kart Stands Out
Let me tell you what makes Street Kart special. First, the track record is impressive. They’ve conducted over 150,000 tours and welcomed more than 1.34 million customers. With over 20,000 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, the service quality speaks for itself.
Language support is comprehensive too. The website is available in 22 languages, and you can receive service in English from booking to the day-of briefing. Having guides specially trained to work with international drivers is rare in this industry—it creates an environment where language barriers simply don’t exist.
With 6 locations in Tokyo alone, you can choose a departure point close to where you’re staying. They have over 250 vehicles, making it easier to book your preferred time slot. Every vehicle is officially certified for public road use and undergoes regular inspections and maintenance. Since it’s a guided tour format, you don’t need to know Tokyo’s complicated streets—just follow the professional guide and safely visit Tokyo’s famous spots.
During the tour, the guide also times photo opportunities perfectly, so you can capture Instagram-worthy shots. Action cameras are welcome too, and many participants record immersive videos of their experience.
Finding Authentic Tokyo Souvenirs in Asakusa and Ueno
Calling Asakusa a treasure trove of Tokyo specialties isn’t an exaggeration. Walking down Nakamise-dori from Kaminarimon Gate, you’ll see classic souvenirs like ningyo-yaki dolls and kaminari-okoshi crackers. But if you’re looking for gifts that really impress, venture a bit further to the specialty shops tucked away from the main path.
Ameyoko in Ueno is particularly fascinating for international visitors. Dried goods, spices, tea, seafood—ingredients that form the backbone of Japanese food culture are available at surprisingly affordable prices. You’ll often find yourself saying “Wait, that’s how much for this?” Looking at the price tags. Shopping alongside locals becomes a priceless memory in itself.
The trick to enjoying shopping in this area? Visit in the morning. You’ll avoid crowds and catch the freshest stock. More and more tourists are scheduling their Street Kart tour for the afternoon and dedicating the morning to shopping.
Discovering Refined Treasures in Nihonbashi and Ginza
Nihonbashi has thrived as a commercial hub since the Edo period. Long-established shops that have been in business for over a century still operate here today. Traditional crafts like washi paper, chopsticks, and folding fans are true works of art infused with artisan skill. Whether as gifts for friends abroad or keepsakes for yourself, you’ll find quality items built to last.
In the Ginza area, select shops carrying carefully curated foods are popular. You can compare regional specialties from across Japan all in one place, making it perfect if you’re not sure what to buy. Many shops offer samples, so you can taste before you purchase. Price ranges vary widely, from casual souvenirs to high-end gifts for special occasions.
Crafting an Efficient Shopping Plan
Planning matters when making the most of limited time in Tokyo. My recommendation? Schedule your Street Kart tour in the middle of your trip. Right after arrival, you’ll be dealing with jet lag and need time to adjust. On your last day, you’ll be busy packing and heading to the airport.
Use the time before and after your tour to enjoy shopping in surrounding areas. After experiencing Tokyo’s streets from a kart, you’ll feel a strange new connection to the city. That feeling of “Hey, I drove through that intersection earlier!” makes shopping even more enjoyable.
Regarding driving licenses—you’ll need either a Japanese license or an International Driving Permit issued by a Geneva Convention member country. Check the official license information page for details.
Tokyo Specialties and Street Kart: A Perfect Pairing
Combining Street Kart with specialty shopping is emerging as a fresh approach to Tokyo tourism. Feel the wind as you race through Tokyo’s famous spots, then pick up authentic treasures at shops the locals love. This experience delivers something completely different from traveling by train or bus.
Booking is easy at kart.st. Popular time slots fill up quickly, so check early once your itinerary is set. An experience you can only have in Tokyo, paired with souvenirs you can only find in Tokyo. This luxurious combination is waiting for you.
A Note About Costumes
We do not rent costumes related to Nintendo or “Mario Kart.” We only provide costumes that respect intellectual property rights.
