Universal Studios Japan, located in the heart of Osaka, is a theme park that promises to transport visitors to a world of adventure and entertainment. With a wide range of attractions, shows, and events, the park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to have a fun-filled day in Japan.
Guide to planning your visit to Universal Studios Japan.
When planning your visit to Universal Studios Japan, it’s essential to remember that the park is trendy among locals and foreigners. Here are three tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Avoid Mondays and Tuesdays: These are the days when local schools typically organize visits to the park. While these days may be slightly more crowded, they will be more relaxed than weekends.
- Consider early access: Many people arrive early to be among the first to enter the park, but only some purchase the ticket with early access. This option allows you to enter the park at 8:30 am, which in our experience, even on a Monday, allowed us to board the Mario Kart attraction twice without queuing. By 10:00 am, the wait time for the ride was already over an hour.
- Invest in a Universal Express Pass: If you don’t want to wake up early, you can buy a Fast Pass instead. This pass allows you to skip a large part of the line for various attractions. However, it’s important to note that you must choose the time you will use it, and the type of pass you need will depend on the attractions you plan to visit. Additionally, buy your Universal Express Pass as soon as you know the date of your visit because the tickets have a high demand.
Travel tip: To improve your experience, find out the waiting times at the various attractions in the park, and even save the points earned in Super Nintendo World, we recommend you download the Universal Studios Japan official application.
What to do in Universal Studios Japan?
The park offers many activities and themed areas. Here is a summary of what you should not miss.
Jujutsu Kaisen 4D movie
One of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Japan is the Jujutsu Kaisen 4D movie. Based on the hit anime and manga series, the movie takes viewers on a thrilling journey through Jujutsu Kaisen, complete with stunning visuals and heart-pounding action. The 4D effects add an extra layer of immersion, making the experience feel more natural and intense.
The wizarding world of Harry Potter
Another major draw for visitors to Universal Studios Japan is the Harry Potter attractions. From the moment you step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The attention to detail is astounding, from the intricately designed shops and restaurants to the iconic Hogwarts castle. You can ride the Hogwarts Express, explore Diagon Alley, and even try your hand at casting spells with a wand from Ollivanders. The Harry Potter attractions at Universal Studios Japan are a dream come true for fans of the books and movies.
It is worth mentioning that whether you are a fan of this fantasy world or not, the attraction of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is an experience that you must live. The immersion in this 4d experience is spectacular, although you may skip it if you get dizzy quickly.
Jurassic Park
Jurassic Park is a must-visit attraction at Universal Studios Japan for those who love dinosaurs and adventure. From the towering Tyrannosaurus Rex to the gentle Brachiosaurus, you can see all your favorite dinosaurs up close and personal. The Jurassic Park ride takes you on a thrilling journey through the park, complete with heart-stopping drops and turns. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a real-life dinosaur adventure.
Super Nintendo World
One of the newest additions to Universal Studios Japan is Super Nintendo World, which opened in 2020. Based on the iconic Mario video game series, Mario World offers visitors a chance to enter the Mushroom Kingdom and experience the world of Mario like never before. You can ride on a rollercoaster through Bowser’s castle, explore Toad’s house, and even try collecting coins in a real-life version of the game. The attention to detail is incredible, and fans of the Mario series are sure to love this immersive experience.
Remember that if you did not purchase the Universal Express Pass, you should check the availability in the app to access Super Nintendo World, from where you can reserve an entry time. However, you can also do this in the dedicated module right in front of the great shark of Jaws.
Jaws
Another classic attraction at Universal Studios Japan is Jaws, based on the classic movie of the same name. The Jaws ride takes visitors on a boat tour of Amity Island, where they encounter the infamous great white shark. With animatronic sharks and thrilling special effects, the ride is a classic example of Universal Studios Japan’s commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for its visitors.
In addition to these attractions, Universal Studios Japan offers a wide range of rides, shows, and events catering to visitors of all ages and interests. From the high-energy performances of SING to the awe-inspiring acrobatics of the WaterWorld show, there’s always something exciting happening at the park. In contrast, the Spider-Man ride puts you in the shoes of the web-slinging hero himself.
A trip to Universal Studios Japan would only be complete with trying some of the park’s delicious food and drink offerings. From traditional Japanese cuisine to international favorites, there’s something for everyone. You can even sample Butterbeer, the signature drink of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
In conclusion, Universal Studios Japan is a theme park offering entertainment for all ages and interests. With its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and delicious food and drink options, the park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Osaka. Whether you’re a fan of classic movies or the latest video games, Universal Studios Japan has something to offer.