Go kart Tour from Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku

Imagine zipping through Tokyo’s busy streets in a go-kart, dressed up in your favorite costume, with the city’s skyline and countless iconic landmarks whirling past you. That’s exactly what this go-kart tour offers—a chance to see Tokyo from a perspective few get to enjoy. We’re here to share a detailed look at this experience, based on the many rave reviews and firsthand insights, to help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

We love how this tour combines adventure with sightseeing, allowing you to explore Tokyo at a fast pace, all while feeling safe under expert guidance. The variety of costumes and photo opportunities adds a playful touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The friendly guides and well-maintained carts are major pluses, and the chance to see sites like Tokyo Tower, Roppongi, and the famous Shibuya Crossing from the streets in a fun, unconventional way appeals to many travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that driving in Tokyo traffic requires some awareness and preparation, especially if you’re new to driving abroad. The tour may be rescheduled if the weather is rainy, which could affect your plans, so flexibility is key. Still, for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping activity that’s truly memorable, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, families, or groups looking for a unique photo-op and a break from traditional sightseeing. It’s ideal for those comfortable with driving and eager for a fun, energetic way to explore Tokyo’s vibrant streets.

Good To Know

• Unique City Perspective: View Tokyo’s iconic landmarks from the street level in an exhilarating way.
• Fun Costumes & Photos: Dress up in cute costumes and have your guide capture your best moments.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gus, Ren, and Pancho are praised for their safety tips, friendliness, and photo-taking skills.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Options for booking and rescheduling are available, with tours lasting around 75-105 minutes.
• Safety & Requirements: All drivers need an international driver’s license and a proper permit, with detailed instructions on obtaining these.
• Highly Reviewed: An overall rating of 4.7/5 from 489 reviews indicates many travelers find this experience worth every yen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experiencing Tokyo in a Speedy New Way

This go-kart tour from Monkey Kart is more than just a fun activity—it’s a chance to see Tokyo like never before. Starting from the Shinagawa area, the journey kicks off with a visit to Tokyo Tower, offering a stunning viewpoint of the city. From there, the route weaves through vibrant neighborhoods such as Roppongi, famous for its nightlife and art scene, and Omotesando, renowned for its designer shops and trendy cafes.

Most participants agree that the highlight is zooming past Shibuya Crossing, likely the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. Imagine the thrill of driving through the crowds, with many locals and travelers snapping photos as you go. Reviewers like Timoth and Jessica mentioned that riding through the streets at night added a magical element, making the experience feel like driving in a video game brought to life.

Your guide will lead the way, ensuring you’re safe amidst the typical Tokyo traffic. They’ll also take plenty of photos, which many reviewers appreciate. Garrett, for example, praised Gus for his constant safety checks and photo captures, making it easy to relive the trip long after it ends.

The Route and What to Expect

The tour typically starts in Shinagawa, a convenient access point for many travelers staying near major train lines. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll hop into your go-kart, which is well-maintained and easy to drive—even for beginners. The guide will give clear instructions, and you’ll be given a choice of adorable costumes, such as Pikachu, to dress up, which adds a playful element to the adventure.

Driving through Tokyo’s bustling streets gives a whole new appreciation for the city’s vibrant energy. Expect to pass by landmarks like Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Japan’s modernity, and neighborhoods that buzz with activity. The guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to keep the group together, even in traffic. Reviews from travelers like Richard and Michelle highlight how they felt safe and under control, even when speeding up to 50 km/hr.

The highlight for many is the Shibuya Crossing segment, where drivers weave through throngs of pedestrians, many of whom are excitedly taking pictures. It’s a surreal scene—feeling like a street racer in the heart of Tokyo’s chaos. The route also includes stops at Omotesando and Roppongi, giving you a taste of everything from upscale shopping streets to nightlife districts.

What’s the Experience Like?

The overall pace is brisk but manageable. The guides ensure everyone is comfortable and safe, which is a big plus. Many reviews mention the guides’ attentiveness—like Federico, who was praised for his friendliness and helpfulness during rain, or Adam, who was described as excellent at making guests feel at ease.

A particular highlight for reviewers is the photo opportunities. Guides are quick to snap shots at iconic spots and in costumes, providing mementos of the trip. Michelle from Australia dressed as Pikachu for her grandkids, and she found the photos “great keepsakes.” Others appreciated how guides like Lewis and Ren went over and beyond to take pictures and give safety updates.

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts 75 to 105 minutes, which is enough time to see several key sites without feeling rushed. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of attention from guides and safety checks.

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Pricing & Value

At $112 per person, this tour offers good value. Considering the length, the personalized guidance, the photo opportunities, and the chance to drive through Tokyo’s most famous sights, it feels like an immersive and fun way to spend a few hours. Plus, the flexibility to reserve now and pay later adds convenience.

Safety & Licensing: What You Need to Know

Driving in Tokyo requires some prep work. All drivers must have an international driver’s license and a hardcopy permit issued by an official agency in their home country. Reviewers like Jessica and Ryan emphasized the importance of this, noting that the guides explain the requirements clearly beforehand.

The tour may be rescheduled due to rain, so travelers should stay flexible with their plans. Participants are over 18, and pregnant women or those without valid licenses are advised not to participate.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many emphasizing how safe and well-organized the experience is. Guides like Gus, Pancho, Ken, and Ren get frequent mentions for their professionalism, friendliness, and photo-taking skills. Several mention the exhilaration of driving through traffic at speeds up to 70 miles per hour—all while feeling secure thanks to the guides’ oversight.

One reviewer, Jessica from the U.S., called it “exhilarating” and “loads of fun,” but also noted it’s not for the faint-hearted. Another, Tracey from Australia, described it as “the best time zooming around Tokyo,” praising the route and the variety of sights.

Who Should Consider This?

This activity is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a memorable story to tell. Families with older kids, couples, or groups of friends who don’t mind a little thrill will find it especially rewarding. It’s also ideal for those wanting unique photos and an unconventional way to see Tokyo.

However, if you’re pregnant, uncomfortable with driving abroad, or prefer more relaxed sightseeing, this might not suit your style. Also, those who value a slow, in-depth exploration of Tokyo’s history and culture might find this too fast-paced and light on detail.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a fun, energetic way to see Tokyo’s top sights, this go-kart tour is hard to beat. The combination of professional guides, iconic locations, and playful costumes makes it a memorable activity for casual travelers and thrill-seekers alike. The fact that many travelers say it’s one of the best things they did in Tokyo speaks volumes about its appeal.

The experience balances adventure with safety and organization, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride without worry. The photos and stories you’ll bring home will make it a highlight of your trip, especially if you’re into quirky, offbeat activities.

This tour offers great value for money—a chance to see Tokyo from a totally different angle that’s sure to make you smile. It’s a must-try for anyone craving excitement, fun photos, and a true sense of Tokyo’s vibrant energy.

FAQ

Do I need a special license to join the go-kart tour?
Yes, all drivers need an international driver’s license and a hardcopy permit issued by an official agency in your country. Make sure to obtain these well before your trip.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be rescheduled due to rain, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are costumes included?
You can choose from a selection of cute costumes to wear during the tour, enhancing the fun and photo opportunities.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 75 to 105 minutes, depending on availability and route adjustments.

Is the tour suitable for children or only adults?
Participants must be over 18 years old with a valid license. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those without a driver’s license.

What are the main sights I will see?
The tour visits Tokyo Tower, Roppongi, Shibuya Crossing, Omotesando, and other iconic locations, offering a broad view of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

How many people are in each group?
Small groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and safe experience.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides provide thorough instructions, monitor traffic closely, and take photos along the way to ensure everyone remains safe and has fun.

In essence, this go-kart tour from Tokyo Tower through Shibuya Crossing and Harajuku offers a lively, playful, and memorable way to explore Tokyo. Perfect for thrill-seekers and photo enthusiasts, it’s a uniquely entertaining addition to any Tokyo itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby