Some of you already know that Japan is the mecca for all things anime, manga, cosplay, and maid café. And yes, video games too. But why just play a game when you can jump into one…like Mario Kart! Here is a video of some people Mario Karting:

Yes, you can travel around Tokyo in your very own Mario Kart thanks to MariCar, a company that has made many peoples’ video game dreams come true.

Before we go any further, you need to have a valid driver’s license—Japanese or International—in order to hop in on the fun. But aside from that, Akiba Cart supplies everything else…including the awesome cosplay costumes.

You can choose from all your favorites—Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Toad, Bowser, and Princess Peach. If you’re a super-hero fan, then you can try being Superman, Spiderman, Iron Man, Captain America, or Batman. And if you are a true anime fan, then why not wear some Dragon Ball Z costumes!

You can “trick out” your ride just like in the video game, with options like car navigation, loud speakers, wireless accessories, action cameras, lights, and more!

Prices at MariCar are about 7,000 yen (about US $60) for two hours, and 5,000 yen (US $40) if you join their Facebook page. These prices are a bit more expensive than its counterpart in Akihabara—”Akiba Cart”, where the prices per hour are 2,700 yen (about US $23). Either way, you should definitely find a place to find a car that meets your budget.

So how do you get a Kart?

Well, MariCar is located in Shinagawa and their exact location can be found here: http://maricar.com/

Also, if you are in Akihabara, then you may want to checkout Akiba Kart here: http://akibanavi.net/

So head-over to MariCar (or Akiba Kart) and join the fun!

–Sal