Monkey Adventure Kart Shibuya Shop 2
Good to know before you go
- Getting there
- Shibuya Station · 3 min walk (JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
- Hours
- 10:00–20:00
- Admission
- From ¥10,000–¥14,000 per person (varies by route and duration)
- Time needed
- 60–90 min
- Best time to go
- Evening after sunset for lighted street signs along the route, or late morning before heavy vehicle traffic peaks
Hours can change on holidays — check the official site before travelling.
About
This high-octane activity lets you drive custom street go-karts through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, including the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. It is an unforgettable way to sightsee, putting you right in the middle of the city's bustling energy while dressed in fun character costumes. Expect a thrilling, guided group ride with safety briefings and plenty of onlookers waving as you zoom by.
What Japanese guides note
Monkey Adventure Kart Shibuya Shop 2 is located on the ground floor of the Daini Namiki Building, three minutes on foot from the southern exits of Shibuya Station. A frequent operational issue is participants mistaking this address for the operator's older shop in the Higashi district. Because these karts share active public roadways with ordinary traffic, drivers must strictly follow standard Japanese road rules and heed guide signals at all intersections.
Details from local sources
- Japan legally permits driving street karts only with an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, rejecting permits under the 1968 Vienna Convention or digital versions. [source]
- Travelers with licenses from France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan must provide their original license along with a certified Japanese translation from an authorized body like JAF. [source]
- The company operates two separate shops in Shibuya: Shop 1 at 1-27-7 Higashi and Shop 2 at 3-17-3 Shibuya in the Daini Namiki Building. [source]
- Drivers cannot operate smartphones or camera equipment while the kart is in motion, and recordings are permitted only while fully stopped. [source]
- Participants must report to the premises 15 to 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure for license verification and safety procedures. [source]
- The custom road karts operate legally as microcars under Japanese traffic law and reach speeds of up to 60 km/h. [source]
Insider Tip
You absolutely must bring a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) printed on paper; digital copies or phone photos are not accepted.
Frequently asked
Can I drive a go-kart using a standard overseas driver's license?
No. Japanese law requires foreign motorists to hold a hardcopy International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Drivers from France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan are exempt from IDPs but must present an official Japanese translation alongside their valid original domestic driver's license.
What happens if I only have a digital copy of my driving permit?
You will be refused service immediately without a refund. Japanese traffic regulations mandate the physical presence of the original paper booklet permit or original physical translation. Digital scans, mobile phone photographs, and PDF printouts from online issuers are invalid under Japanese road transport laws.
How does Shibuya Shop 2 differ from the other Shibuya branch?
Shop 2 sits on Meiji Dori at 3-17-3 Shibuya in the Daini Namiki Building, whereas Shop 1 is situated in Higashi 1-chōme. Specific itineraries, including routes heading toward Shinjuku and Harajuku, often depart from Shop 2, making building verification essential before arrival.
What footwear and clothing are required for the tour?
Drivers must wear flat, closed-toe footwear like athletic sneakers. High heels, open-toed sandals, platform shoes, long skirts, and trailing scarves are strictly disallowed for mechanical safety around pedals and axle components. Rental character costumes are provided on-site and must be worn directly over your existing street clothes.
Can children or unlicensed passengers ride along in the karts?
No. The go-karts operating on Tokyo city roads are single-seat motor vehicles that require an individual driver's license for every participant. Passengers are not permitted to share a kart, and individuals younger than 18 or lacking the legally recognized documentation cannot take part.
Tours near Monkey Adventure Kart Shibuya Shop 2
On the same walk
Photos
