Universal Studios Japan
Experience the magic of movies and games at Universal Studios Japan, home to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier entry
Universal Studios Japan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier entry
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the magic of movies and games at Universal Studios Japan, home to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
"The most immersive theme park experience with incredible detail and thrilling rides!"
🎯 Book Tickets & Express Pass Early
Tickets and Express Passes sell out fast! Book at least a month in advance to avoid disappointment.
⏰ Arrive Before Park Opening
To guarantee entry to Super Nintendo World, arrive 2 hours before opening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Super Nintendo World
Themed Land
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Mario and friends with interactive rides and themed dining.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Themed Land
Step into Hogsmeade village, cast spells, and brave the Forbidden Journey ride.
Minion Park
Themed Land
Join the mischievous Minions for thrilling rides and a chaotic, fun-filled atmosphere.
Jurassic Park
Themed Land
Encounter dinosaurs and brave the thrilling Jurassic Park – The Ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Tickets & Express Pass Early
Arrive Before Opening for Nintendo World
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets & Express Pass Early
Tickets and Express Passes sell out fast! Book at least a month in advance to avoid disappointment.
⏰ Arrive Before Park Opening
To guarantee entry to Super Nintendo World, arrive 2 hours before opening. +1
✨ Collect Free Stickers
Politely ask staff 'Sutekka ga arimasu ka?' for free themed stickers.
🍽️ Themed Dining Delights
Enjoy incredibly themed food, especially in Nintendo World.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets & Express Pass Early
Tickets and Express Passes sell out fast! Book at least a month in advance to avoid disappointment.
⏰ Arrive Before Park Opening
To guarantee entry to Super Nintendo World, arrive 2 hours before opening. +1
✨ Collect Free Stickers
Politely ask staff 'Sutekka ga arimasu ka?' for free themed stickers.
🍽️ Themed Dining Delights
Enjoy incredibly themed food, especially in Nintendo World.
🚶♀️ Single Rider Queues
Utilize single rider lines for shorter waits on popular rides like Hollywood Dream.
🍺 Try the Butterbeer
Don't miss the magical Butterbeer experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Universal Studios Japan is a highly-rated park, praised for its incredibly immersive themed lands, particularly Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Visitors rave about the detailed theming, thrilling rides, and unique dining experiences. However, the high cost of Express Passes and long wait times on busy days are common drawbacks.
"Universal Studios Japan, was a fun experience but we learned a few lessons from our trip. If your visiting here on vocation or overseas book your tickets and fast passes 3-6 months in advance. Tickets and fast passes get sold out quickly. Some popular rides can have more than 2 hour wait times if you dont have the fast passes. Try to avoid going during Japan's silver, gold weeks and really popular holidays like Halloween and Christmas as it will be even packed more than usual. If your traveling with family and or little ones it would probably be more preferable to get multi-day pass instead of a single day. Check the hight requirements for rides beforehand as they will strictly adhere to the policy if your kids are not tall all enough, regardless if you ride with them or not. Some restaurants in Universal Studios Japan require reservation so sign up early before they get packed and fill up around 11 am. Bring extra spending money as the gift shops have a lot of fun items to buy. The minion section of theme park was done really well and enjoyed it. The Super Mario Park is fun and designed well but was smaller than I had imagined and was really packed too. The Jaws boat ride was fun but the water explosions and fire can scare the little ones 😅. There was still much we couldn't do or experience during this trip to USJ but would definitely go again and plan it better."
Why?!!!
"We visited Universal Studios on a Thursday during the Halloween event and had an express pass for timed entry into the Super Nintendo World and included 4x express pass for rides. Overall, the rides were really enjoyable and wait times not too long apart from Mine cart Madness. For the Flying Dinosaur and Hollywood Dream, these rollercoasters are quite intense, so it is probably only advisable to try these if you know that you enjoy rollercoasters. Highly advise walking around the Harry Potter area and Super Mario areas - the theming for these areas and rides is very impressive. The list below are the rides we tried and the respective wait times.
List of rides we went on:
* Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (wait time ~15mins using express pass)
* Jurassic Park - The Ride (wait time ~ 40mins)
* The Flying Dinosaur (wait time ~5mins using express pass)
* Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast (wait time ~25mins)
* Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem (wait time ~30mins)
* Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge (wait time ~15mins with express pass)
* Mine Cart Madness (wait time ~150mins)
* SPYxFAMILY XR Ride (wait time ~10mins with express pass)
* JAWS (wait time 10mins)
* Hollywood Dream - The Ride (wait time ~5mins with express pass)
The Halloween event also started from around 6PM until park closure, which was great to see all of the zombies and characters walking around the Hollywood area of the park. As a side note, they do have zombie-free paths and zones within the park, and the wait times for rides was reduced while this event was ongoing. While keeping to the path inside of the Halloween event area, the characters would not generally interact with you unless you are on the main road part, but everything was safe and enjoyable.
Some negatives with the park include us paying for a timed-entry express pass specifically to get into the Nintendo themed area, yet that area got opened up to all of the public before our timed-entry started. It feels like we wasted some of our money on getting the express pass as it was already available and the queues for the rides increased a lot due to this. Also, while the app is very useful for navigating the park, I feel that the signage could be better, with a lot of people having to ask the park staff on where to go rather than logically being able to follow the signs.
Overall, a great experience and worth visiting even if you have visited the other Universal Studios parks - there are enough unique rides and attractions to make it worth it!"
Cunning Fox
"Full day as couple
Universal Studios Japan delivers non-stop energy from park opening to fireworks. The theming is spectacular, rides are thrilling, and the attention to detail in lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World makes the whole visit feel immersive and cinematic.
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Highlights
- Harry Potter area: Breathtaking set design, authentic shops, and a ride that blends storytelling with intense motion—one of the best theme-park experiences I’ve had.
- Super Nintendo World: Smart, playful tech interactions; the atmosphere is joyful and addictive for gamers and non-gamers alike.
- Thrill rides: Hollywood Dream and other coasters are fast, smooth, and visually exciting.
- Entertainment: Parades and street shows are energetic and tightly choreographed; timing them around parade schedules paid off.
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Practical Tips
- Buy Express Pass for peak days to cut wait times dramatically.
- Arrive at opening and head to the most popular attractions first (Super Nintendo World or Harry Potter) to avoid long lines.
- Download the official app for wait times and show schedules.
- Pack light and wear comfy shoes — you’ll walk a lot and queue outdoors sometimes.
- Try the themed snacks (butterbeer and character treats are must-tries).
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What Could Improve
- Food queues at peak times can be long and options get crowded; more quick-service spots would help.
- Some attractions have limited capacity during rainy weather, so plan indoor alternatives on wet days.
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Quick Verdict
Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit for thrill-seekers, fans of immersive worlds, and anyone who loves big, joyful theme-park production. Expect to leave exhilarated, a little tired, and already planning your next trip. Tried to add photos by not having away much come and explore."
Sonam Lama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka is by subway. Take the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station, which is directly connected to the park. Many travelers find this the most convenient option.
Yes, Universal Studios Japan offers paid parking facilities. However, due to potential crowds, using public transportation is often recommended by visitors.
Yes, the JR Yumesaki Line is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making it a cost-effective way to reach Universal Studios Japan if you have one.
From KIX, you can take the JR Haruka Express train to Tennoji or Shin-Osaka Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station. Alternatively, airport limousine buses are available.
Yes, there are several hotels near Universal Studios Japan, including The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan and Liber Hotel At Universal Studios Japan, offering convenient access to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to purchase your Universal Studios Japan tickets online in advance from the official USJ website or reputable third-party sellers like Klook. This helps avoid long queues and ensures you secure your entry, especially for Super Nintendo World.
Ticket prices for Universal Studios Japan vary depending on the day and season, typically ranging from ¥8,200 to ¥10,400 for adults. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
An Express Pass allows you to skip the regular lines for select rides and attractions, significantly reducing wait times. While not mandatory, it's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or if you want to experience popular rides like those in Super Nintendo World without long waits. +1
Entry to Super Nintendo World can be challenging without an Express Pass. On busy days, you might need to obtain a timed entry ticket upon arrival or through the USJ app. Arriving very early is key if you don't have an Express Pass. +1
While discounts are not always readily available, checking third-party sites like Klook can sometimes offer deals. Using promo codes, like THATSSOMID for up to 10% off on Klook, can also help.
🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience
Must-do attractions include Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge in Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Flying Dinosaur, and Hollywood Dream – The Ride. Don't miss the immersive themed lands.
To guarantee entry into Super Nintendo World, it's best to purchase an Express Pass that includes SNW access or arrive at the park extremely early, at least two hours before opening. +1
No, once you leave Super Nintendo World, you generally cannot re-enter without a specific timed entry ticket or an Express Pass that allows re-entry. Plan your visit accordingly.
Without an Express Pass, prioritize arriving at park opening and heading straight to popular attractions like Super Nintendo World. Utilize single rider queues where available and check wait times on the USJ app.
Yes, Universal Studios Japan features various live entertainment shows, character greetings, and seasonal parades throughout the year. Check the park's daily schedule upon arrival for showtimes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
USJ offers a wide variety of themed food options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Popular choices include themed dishes in Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, like Butterbeer.
Yes, Sanji's Pirate Restaurant, themed around One Piece, offers a dining experience with live character performances. Booking in advance is highly recommended as it's very popular.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside Universal Studios Japan, except for baby food and specific dietary needs with prior arrangement.
Butterbeer is a non-alcoholic, sweet, creamy beverage inspired by the Harry Potter series. It's a must-try for fans visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
While themed dining is a highlight, options for specific dietary needs like vegetarian or vegan can be limited. It's advisable to check menus in advance or inquire with restaurant staff upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the vibrant Mushroom Park in Super Nintendo World, and the Minion Park. The detailed theming throughout the park offers endless photo opportunities.
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited on most rides for safety reasons. However, you can capture the immersive theming and queues before boarding.
Yes, Universal Studios Japan often has character meet-and-greets with popular characters like the Minions and from the Harry Potter series. Check the park schedule for times and locations.
You can collect free, themed stickers from staff members throughout the park by politely asking. Phrases like 'Sutekka ga arimasu ka?' (Do you have stickers?) can be helpful.
Early morning or late afternoon/evening can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds for photography. The park also looks magical when lit up at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning, aim for weekdays if possible to avoid the largest crowds. Pack snacks and drinks if allowed, or be prepared for themed dining experiences which kids often love. The park also offers character meet-and-greets, which are always a hit with younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food, consider packing some snacks or eating outside the park before or after your visit. While the themed dining is a highlight, it can be pricey. Utilize freebies like the collectible stickers offered by staff as a fun, no-cost souvenir.
couples
For thrill-seekers, the Hollywood Dream – The Ride and The Flying Dinosaur offer exhilarating adventures. Consider a couples' Express Pass to maximize your time together and minimize waiting in lines. Enjoy themed dining experiences, perhaps at Sanji's Pirate Restaurant for a unique evening, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the beautifully themed lands. The park's evening illuminations can also provide a romantic backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mastering Super Nintendo World
Popular attractions within Super Nintendo World include Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge, an augmented reality ride that puts you in the driver's seat of a kart, and Yoshi's Adventure, a gentle ride offering panoramic views of the land. Don't forget to try the themed food and drinks, such as the Super Mushroom Burger and Piranha Plant Soda, available at the Kinopio's Cafe. Remember that once you leave Super Nintendo World, re-entry might be restricted, so plan your time wisely within this magical realm.
The Strategic Use of Express Passes
It's important to note that Express Passes are often sold out well in advance, particularly for popular dates. Travelers often advise purchasing them at least a month before your visit, or even earlier if possible. Some premium Express Passes, available on the USJ Japanese website, may offer untimed entry to Super Nintendo World and include access to highly sought-after rides like The Flying Dinosaur and Hollywood Dream. While they represent a significant additional cost, many visitors find the time saved and the reduced stress well worth the investment, especially when traveling with children or on a tight schedule.
Beyond the Rides: Immersive Theming and Dining
Minion Park offers a vibrant and chaotic atmosphere, while Jurassic Park brings the prehistoric world to life. The attention to detail in the architecture, costumes, and even the background music contributes to a truly captivating experience. The park's commitment to theming extends to its dining options. Sanji's Pirate Restaurant, a popular spot for One Piece fans, offers a live show with character interactions, though booking is essential.
Even smaller details, like the free collectible stickers available from staff, add to the overall magic and encourage exploration and interaction within the park. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit