Shibuya Go Karting Tour with Funny Costume

Shibuya Go Karting Tour with Funny Costume offers an electrifying way to explore Tokyo’s bustling streets. For just $61 per person, you get a one-hour adventure navigating Shibuya, including the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing—a site that calls itself the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Led by friendly, multilingual staff, this tour combines the thrill of driving a go-kart through crowded city streets with the playful fun of dressing up in a costume of your choice. It’s a quirky experience that brings out your inner child while giving you a unique perspective on Tokyo’s vibrant urban life.

What we really like about this experience are two key details. First, the costume rental—it’s more than just a novelty; it adds a memorable visual element that makes your photos stand out and turns you into part of the city’s colorful tapestry. Second, the guided nature of the tour ensures safety while allowing you to focus on the excitement of zipping through busy streets. However, one thing to keep in mind is that a valid international driver’s license is required, and weather conditions can be a concern, as heavy rain might cancel the activity. This activity suits those who love a bit of fun, don’t mind wearing costumes, and want to see Shibuya from a different, playful angle.

Key Points

• Unique adventure in Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhood, riding a go-kart dressed as your favorite character.
• Safety and guidance provided, with instructions and a knowledgeable tour guide ensuring a smooth experience.
• Photo opportunities abound, making this a fun memory to share after your trip.
• Weather dependent: rain can cancel the activity, so plan accordingly.
• Age and size restrictions apply: 150cm-185cm in height and under 100 kg.
• Includes insurance and equipment, but vehicle damage costs are extra unless you opt for additional coverage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Shibuya Go Karting Experience

This tour is designed to give you a taste of what it’s like to be a character in Tokyo’s chaos, with a twist. You start at a designated meeting point, Akiba Kart Shibuya, where you’ll find signage directing you to the rental office. After a quick briefing on safety and driving rules, you’ll choose from a wide selection of costumes and cosplay outfits—think superheroes, anime characters, or other fun personas—that significantly enhance the photos and the overall vibe of the tour.

Once suited up, you’ll hop into the automatic transmission go-kart—easy to handle, even if you’re new to driving—and hit the streets. The guide will lead the group, ensuring you navigate the famous Shibuya scramble multiple times, giving you plenty of chances to soak in and photograph the scene. You’ll also cruise along Dogenzaka and the lively Big Street, experiencing the city’s energy up close.

The duration of roughly one hour is just right—long enough to feel like you’ve really covered some ground without getting exhausted. According to reviews, the guides like Luca and Chris are helpful, ensuring you understand the rules and stay safe while having fun. One reviewer noted, “The staff were really helpful and gave us all of the help we needed. The location really made it too, getting to drive across Shibuya scramble crossing!”

What Makes This Tour Special?

One of the standout features is the visual spectacle. Seeing fellow travelers or locals stare and snap photos as you zoom past in costume is part of the fun. Several reviewers mentioned how they appreciated the photo service included, which gives you a chance to get great shots of your costume-clad adventure. The costumes turn the experience into a memorable and Instagram-worthy moment, and many guests have shared their enthusiasm about the photos afterward.

Another aspect worth highlighting is the safety briefing, which is comprehensive and in both English and Japanese, helping non-Japanese speakers understand the rules of the road. This focus on safety combined with the guide’s expertise reassures those who might worry about navigating busy Tokyo streets in a go-kart.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While this activity is undoubtedly fun, there are some aspects to keep in mind. The weather can be a limiting factor—heavy rain will lead to cancellations, but re-scheduling or refunds are generally available. Also, because the activity involves actual driving, a valid international driver’s license is a must. Without it, your tour will be canceled with no refund, so double-check your documentation before booking.

The height and weight restrictions ensure safety and proper fit in the karts. If you’re between 150cm and 185cm and under 100kg, you’re good to go. Participants under 18 are not permitted, and pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility issues should avoid this activity. It’s also worth noting that the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Getting to the meeting point involves about a 10-20 minute walk from central Shibuya, or a quick Uber if you prefer. Arriving 20 minutes early helps you get checked in and ready without rushing.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to other sightseeing options in Tokyo, this activity offers a blend of adrenaline, culture, and humor at a reasonable price. For $61, you get a professional guide, insurance, costume rental, and the chance to explore one of the city’s most iconic areas in an entirely new way. Guests have commented that the activity is “worth it,” especially considering the fun photos and unforgettable memories it provides.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adventure-seeking travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy dressing up, taking photos, or just having a good laugh, you’ll love the playful side of this experience. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind a bit of chaos and want to see Tokyo from a fresh, lively angle.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, traditional tours, or have mobility limitations, this might not be the best fit. It’s also less suitable if your schedule doesn’t allow for weather-dependent cancellations or if you don’t have a valid international driver’s license.

Final Thoughts

The Shibuya Go Karting Tour with Funny Costume offers a distinctive way to experience Tokyo’s heartbeat in a lively, humorous, and memorable manner. The guides’ helpfulness, the inclusion of costumes, and the chance to snap incredible photos make it a standout activity for those wanting something uniquely Japanese with a twist of fun.

While it’s not a traditional sightseeing tour, it’s precisely that playful, energetic vibe that many travelers will cherish. The activity’s focus on safety, professionalism, and fun means you can enjoy it without worry—just bring your driver’s license, a good attitude, and a desire to see Tokyo like never before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to participate?
Yes, you must have a valid international driver’s license that permits driving in Japan. If you do not bring one, your tour will be canceled without a refund.

Is the activity suitable for children or teenagers?
No, children under 18 are not permitted. The age and height restrictions are 150cm to 185cm in height and under 100kg.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport, closed-toe shoes, and your international driver’s license. Cellphones, high-heeled shoes, slippers, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the activity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
In heavy rain, the tour will be canceled, but you can re-schedule without charge. If no alternative date is available, a full refund will be issued.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately one hour, including briefing, costume fitting, and driving time.

Can I take my own photos?
While the tour includes a photo shooting service, you are encouraged to bring your camera or phone to capture your own moments during the ride.

In the end, this go-karting adventure in Shibuya is a playful, energetic way to see Tokyo from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those looking to add a splash of fun and a dose of memorable photos to their trip, especially if they enjoy dressing up and embracing the city’s lively spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: