Tokyo: Shinjuku & Shibuya Go Kart Tour in Costume

Summary

Go karting Tokyo’s wildest streets in costume with locals watching

You’ll suit up as your favorite character and drive a go kart through Shinjuku, Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku and Omotesando with an English-speaking guide leading the way. Expect lots of laughs, waves from locals and plenty of photos — plus all gear, insurance and fuel included. It’s a weirdly joyful way to see Tokyo.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the shop owner grinning at my Mario costume — he gave me a thumbs up and said, “You’ll make people smile today.” I didn’t really believe him until we rolled out of the garage, engines buzzing, and two high school girls started waving like we were celebrities. Our guide, Kenji, checked everyone’s seatbelts and gave us a quick run-down (his English is way better than my Japanese). I was nervous about the traffic but honestly, once you’re on those little karts in Shinjuku, it feels oddly safe — maybe because everyone’s looking out for you. The city smells different down low to the ground, kind of like warm concrete mixed with sweet street food.

We zipped past Harajuku and I caught a whiff of crepes from one of those tiny stands — almost made me want to stop. At Shibuya Crossing, people actually stopped mid-step to snap photos or wave. One guy shouted “Pikachu!” at my friend (she was Luigi, so not even close), and we just laughed. Kenji kept us together with little hand signals; he’d point out cool buildings along Omotesando but honestly I was too busy soaking up the wind and neon signs. It’s loud — horns, music from shops, random bursts of laughter from people seeing us drive by. The go karts are surprisingly zippy but never felt out of control.

I didn’t expect to feel so much like part of Tokyo for an hour or two. There’s something about being cheered on by strangers that sticks with you. When we parked back at the shop (it’s only a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station), Kenji asked if anyone wanted a photo — my hair was wild under the hat and I looked ridiculous but also kind of happy. If you’ve got your international license sorted and don’t mind being stared at (in a good way), this day trip around Shinjuku and Shibuya is just… fun. That’s all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Go kart tour through Tokyo districts

• Dress in favorite character costume
• Drive go-kart through Harajuku
• Pass by Shibuya crossing
• Drive along Omotesando shopping street

Top questions

Do I need an international driver’s license for this Tokyo go kart tour?

Yes, you must bring a valid International Driving Permit or specific Japanese licenses as listed in the requirements.

Where does the go kart tour start in Tokyo?

The tour starts at a shop located just 3 minutes from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station.

Are costumes included in the go kart tour?

Yes, costume rental is included at no extra charge.

What areas do we drive through on the go kart tour?

You’ll drive through Shinjuku, Harajuku, Omotesando and cross Shibuya Crossing.

Is there an English-speaking guide during the tour?

Yes, an English-speaking guide leads every group.

How fast do the go karts go?

You can reach speeds up to 60 km/h on this tour.

What happens if it rains on the day of my booking?

The tour may be cancelled if there is heavy rain; you can reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Is lunch included in this Tokyo go kart experience?

No meals are included; only costumes, insurance and fuel are covered.

What’s included

Your day includes full go kart rental with fuel surcharge already covered, costume rental for each participant (or bring your own if you want), insurance fee for peace of mind throughout central Tokyo’s traffic, plus guidance from an English-speaking local who keeps everyone safe and together along Harajuku, Omotesando and that famous Shibuya crossing before looping back near Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station.