When you travel to Osaka, you simply can’t miss the must-visit attraction Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. With blockbuster themes like Harry Potter and Super Mario, it’s one of Japan’s two major theme parks alongside Tokyo Disneyland and a spot you absolutely shouldn’t skip.
But what are the must-ride attractions at Universal Studios Japan? How do you plan your day so your ticket is really worth it? This Osaka Universal Studios guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
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Universal Studios Japan overview
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka was the first Universal Studios theme park to open outside the United States, which shows how significant it is historically. The park is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of rides that will leave you wanting more — it’s very easy to spend an entire day here.
The park is divided into multiple themed areas. Whether you’re a fan of horror icons like Sadako, blockbuster worlds like Jurassic Park, or cute characters such as Hello Kitty and the Minions, you’ll find them all here. The biggest highlight is that the rides combine movie-style special effects with 3D simulation technology to create fully immersive experiences that both adults and kids will love.
How to get to Universal Studios Japan
Wondering how to get to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka? The good news is that it’s very accessible. Here are the main options:
Public transportation:
- From Osaka Station, take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line and get off at Universal City Station. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the park entrance.
- From Osaka Namba Station, take the Hanshin Namba Line to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line and get off at Universal City Station.
- From Kansai International Airport, take the Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line and get off at Universal City Station. The total journey takes about one hour.
Taxi or private transfer:
- From central Osaka areas such as Shinsaibashi or Namba, it’s about a 20–30 minute drive.
- If you’re traveling with a group, you can also consider booking a private car for a full day, which is more relaxing and convenient.
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Universal Studios Japan park map
Universal Studios Japan is huge and is divided into ten themed areas — you’ll definitely walk your legs off. Below is an overview map; for detailed locations of rides, dining areas, and souvenir shops, you can check the official website.
Universal Studios Japan tickets
There are many different ticket types for Universal Studios Japan, which can feel a bit confusing at first. Prices are dynamic and vary depending on peak or off-peak days, so it’s best to choose the ticket type that fits your schedule and travel style.
| Ticket type | Price | What it includes | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Studio Pass | ¥8,600 (approx. US$55) and up | Standard 1-day admission | First-time visitors, can be combined with an Express Pass |
| Twilight Pass | ¥6,000 (approx. US$38) and up | Admission after 15:00 | Avoiding daytime crowds and enjoying the evening atmosphere |
| 1.5-Day Studio Pass | ¥13,900 (approx. US$89) and up | Day 1: admission after 15:00 Day 2: full-day admission | More time to explore than a 1-day pass |
| 2-Day Studio Pass | ¥16,300 (approx. US$104) and up | Two full days in the park | Visitors who want to take it slow and really explore the park |
| Annual Pass | ¥22,000 (approx. US$140) and up | Pays for itself in about three visits per year (with some blackout dates) | Fans who love Universal Studios Japan and plan to visit multiple times |
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass
After buying your Universal Studios Japan admission ticket, you can decide whether to add an Express Pass. Prices usually range from around ¥8,000–¥20,000 (approx. US$51–US$127). During peak seasons like Halloween, Christmas, and summer holidays, wait times for popular rides can easily exceed two hours without an Express Pass.
If your budget allows, getting an Express Pass is highly recommended — it helps you save time, ride more attractions efficiently, and often guarantees entry to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here’s a quick breakdown of the different Express Pass options:
| Express Pass type | Included attractions | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Express Pass 4 | 4 attractions | Travelers on a tighter budget who still want to skip some lines |
| Express Pass 5 | 5 attractions | Covers most of the popular rides with great value |
| Express Pass 7 | 7 attractions | For those with a comfortable budget who want to experience as much as possible |
| Express Pass 8 | 8 attractions | The most complete option — perfect for ticking off almost everything in one visit |
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Universal Studios Japan attractions
As one of Asia’s most famous theme parks, Universal Studios Japan is packed with must-do attractions that instantly transport you into the worlds of your favorite movies. Adults can relive childhood memories through classic characters, while kids will be captivated by adorable mascots and grand parades. It’s truly a park where both grown-ups and children can have fun together. Here are some of the signature attractions you shouldn’t miss.
USJ must-do #1｜The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Ever dreamed of holding a wand, casting spells on the world, or chatting with friends over a mug of butterbeer? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan faithfully recreates the scenes from the books and films, turning you from a Muggle into a wizard in seconds. You’ll find both Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village, along with iconic shops from the series selling house robes, wands, scarves, hats, and more. You can even sign up for “magic lessons” to finally live out your childhood wizard dreams.
The two must-ride attractions here are Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey uses 4D technology to immerse you in an intense magical battle, making it one of the most unforgettable rides in the park. Because the area feels so real, it’s worth visiting both during the day and at night — imagine a full day of “classes” at Hogwarts, then winding down in the evening with a butterbeer.
USJ must-do #2｜Super Nintendo World
Mario is a childhood game for many of us, so stepping into Super Nintendo World feels like jumping straight into the console. It’s the world’s very first Nintendo-themed land, packed with brand-new, interactive fun that brings out everyone’s inner kid.
The must-ride attractions here include Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, where you put on AR goggles and race through the Mushroom Kingdom, tossing shells and battling other racers. In the newly opened Donkey Kong Country, Donkey Kong’s Crazy Cart takes you on a wild mine-cart adventure through the jungle — it’s thrilling yet still suitable for families.
One of the most unique features of Super Nintendo World is the Power-Up Band. Once you enter the area, you can buy a band and officially start “game mode” in real life. As you walk around, you can hit question blocks, collect virtual coins, and unlock mini-games. Defeat the final boss and you’ll even receive a special invitation from Princess Peach — it’s sweaty, exciting, and incredibly satisfying.
USJ must-do #3｜Jurassic Park
Ever wondered how terrifying dinosaurs would be in real life after watching the Jurassic Park movies? The Jurassic Park area at Universal Studios Japan will completely blow your mind. The jungle-style setting recreates the film’s atmosphere perfectly — mysterious, dangerous, and full of tension — and you’ll even encounter giant dinosaurs up close.
The star attraction here is The Flying Dinosaur, known as one of the world’s longest and most intense flying coasters. The queue can be long, but the feeling of being “grabbed” by a pterosaur and soaring through the sky, then plunging down suddenly, is absolutely unforgettable. Even if you don’t ride, just watching from below is impressive.
USJ must-do #4｜Minion Park
If you love the little yellow Minions from Despicable Me, you’ll definitely adore Minion Park. Their funny “Minion language” and chaotic antics have stolen many hearts, and here you can step right into their world, complete themed missions, take photos with Minions, and even try Minion-shaped snacks and ice cream.
The area itself isn’t huge, but every corner is incredibly photogenic, and the rides are family-friendly. The highlight is Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, a motion simulator ride packed with vibrations, scents, and other effects that bring movie scenes to life — perfect for parents and kids to enjoy together.
USJ must-do #5｜Universal Studios Japan Halloween events
One of the most anticipated events every year is the Halloween celebration at Universal Studios Japan. Guests can dress up in costumes to enter the park, and after dark you’ll run into zombies and other spooky characters, making the Halloween atmosphere feel very real. The Halloween season usually runs from September to November, transforming the park from a cheerful family space by day into a haunted attraction at night.
During Halloween, you can encounter roaming “street zombies,” creepy mascots like the “Horror Teddy,” and limited-time attractions inspired by series such as Chainsaw Man or Chucky. It’s the perfect chance to experience that mix of fear and fun and create unforgettable Halloween memories.
USJ must-do #6｜WaterWorld
If you’re tired from lining up for rides or your legs need a break, head over to WaterWorld to enjoy a world-class stunt and water show. Performances run at fixed times, and you simply enter the arena at your chosen time, sit down, and enjoy. The show’s storyline is fast-paced and exciting, with plenty of stunts and explosions, plus interactive moments with the audience.
Do note that the front rows are “splash zones” where you’re very likely to get wet. If you’d rather stay dry, choose seats farther back. Or put on a poncho and sit in front for an up-close, high-energy experience.
Universal Studios Japan touring tips
After reading all of the above, are you ready to dive into Universal Studios Japan? Before you rush off, remember that good planning is the key to getting the most out of your Osaka Universal Studios ticket — less time spent wandering or standing in line means more time enjoying the rides.
Before you go: what to prepare
- Pre-purchase your e-ticket so you can scan the QR code and enter directly.
- Download the Universal Studios Japan app in advance and familiarize yourself with the map, restaurants, and facilities.
- Use a crowd forecast website to choose days with fewer visitors.
- Arrive 1–2 hours earlier than the official opening time (9:00). If the park opens early, you’ll be among the first to ride popular attractions.
- If it’s busy, use the app to secure timed-entry tickets for Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as soon as you enter.
- Take advantage of single-rider lines. You may be separated from your friends on the ride, but wait times are much shorter.
- If you bought an Express Pass, make good use of the designated time slots to save time.
- If you’re traveling with children, use the child-switch system on attractions with height restrictions so adults can take turns riding.
- Consider reserving a restaurant in advance to avoid having nowhere to sit during peak meal times.
- Try to finish souvenir shopping before sunset, and use the park’s locker services so you don’t have to carry too many bags.
Suggested route in the park
- First, get your timed-entry tickets for Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and buy a Power-Up Band if you plan to play in Super Nintendo World.
- Super Nintendo World
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Stroll through Amity Village and nearby areas
- Jurassic Park
- Minion Park
- Hollywood area
- Universal Wonderland and other family zones
Queueing tips for major attractions
| Attraction | Express Pass | Single rider | Child switch | Timed entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Donkey Kong’s Crazy Cart | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Yoshi’s Adventure | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Flight of the Hippogriff | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Jaws | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| The Flying Dinosaur | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Jurassic Park: The Ride | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Despicable Me Minion Mayhem | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Hollywood Dream – The Ride | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Universal Wonderland attractions | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
How to use your Express Pass wisely
| Attraction | Express Pass 4 Minecart & Fun | Express Pass 5 Adventure Special | Express Pass 7 Minecart & Minion Mayhem | Express Pass 8 Minion & Minecart Special |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) |
| Donkey Kong’s Crazy Cart | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | |
| Yoshi’s Adventure | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | |
| Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ||
| Flight of the Hippogriff | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ||
| Jaws | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | |
| The Flying Dinosaur | ✔ | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | |
| Jurassic Park: The Ride | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | |
| Despicable Me Minion Mayhem | ✔ | Choose 1 of 2 | Choose 1 of 2 | |
| Minion Crazy Mission: Road to Becoming a Villain | ✔ (timed entry) | ✔ (timed entry) | ||
| Hollywood Dream – The Ride | ✔ | |||
| Guaranteed area entry | Super Nintendo World The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Super Nintendo World | Super Nintendo World The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Super Nintendo World The Wizarding World of Harry Potter |
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That wraps up this Osaka Universal Studios (Universal Studios Japan) guide. With this article in hand, you should be able to tackle your first visit to USJ with confidence, avoid unnecessary stress, and create unforgettable travel memories.
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