Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a dream destination for kids and kids-at-heart. This world-class theme park in Osaka, the first Universal Studios outside the United States, offers a variety of attractions and events for guests of all ages.
USJ is vast, making it a bit overwhelming to navigate. To maximize your time, here’s your ultimate guide to Universal Studios Japan.
How to Get to Universal Studios Japan from Osaka City Center
There are several ways to visit USJ. Whether you’re using private or public transportation, you can get to USJ in no time.
By Train
From downtown Osaka
Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line to Osaka Station. Walk to the Osaka Loop Line and take the train to Nishikujo Station. Transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station. A short walk brings you to USJ.
From Kansai International Airport
Take the JR Hanwa Line to Nishi-kujo Station. Transfer to the JR Yumesaki or Sakurajima Line, then get off at Universal City Station.
By Bus
From Kansai International Airport
Direct buses to Universal Studios Japan are available from Kansai International Airport. In Terminal 1, head to platform 3; in Terminal 2, head to platform 7.
Via shuttle bus
Shuttle buses provide a convenient and comfortable way to travel from downtown Osaka to USJ. These buses offer multiple pick-up and drop-off points, including popular areas like Dotonbori. You can easily book a seat in advance through KKday to ensure a hassle-free journey.
By Private Car
Take the Hanshin Expressway Wangan Route’s Hokko JCT, then exit at Universal City.
What is the Opening Hours for USJ?
USJ’s operating hours vary per day, usually starting at 8:30 a.m. or 9 a.m., and closing at 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Some attractions and shows may have temporary closures, so always check the park schedule so you could plan your trip ahead. It’s recommended to be at the park one hour before it opens so you have enough time to pick up your ticket and find a parking spot.
If you want to be there before the crowd arrives, get an Early Entry Pass, which allows you to enter the park 15 minutes earlier than usual.
Where to Buy Universal Studios Japan Tickets?
You can buy your USJ passes either on-site or online. Take note that tickets go on sale around two months in advance, so schedule your trip accordingly.
Via the park’s ticket booth
You may get your tickets at the ticket booth in the park. Be there early as it opens one hour before the park opens. It’s best for those people who are already in Japan, and would like to enter USJ same day.
Via the USJ website or app
You can also conveniently get your tickets via their official website and app, but do note that they only allow select credit cards to purchase. Also, you can only buy a maximum of four tickets at a time.
Via accredited travel platforms
Travel platforms such as KKday would be ideal if you’re booking in advance. Most major credit cards are accepted too. Sometimes, it’s even cheaper to buy from these online sites because of the discounts, but do note that tickets purchase online have validity period.
Do You Need a USJ Express Pass?
An Express Pass gives you faster access to USJ’s popular attractions and rides, compared to your regular Studio Pass. With a Universal Express Pass, you can line up in dedicated express lanes, which lets you in on your favorite attraction more easily. It’s an add-on to your Studio Pass, and it’s optional. But if you’re aiming to try as many rides as possible, then getting an Express Pass would be suitable for you. Note that Express Pass gets sold out easily, so act fast and book one ASAP!
There are several types of Universal Express Pass you can choose from, depending on your preferred rides:
Universal Express Pass 4
Includes access to 4 different attractions
| Universal Express Pass | Inclusions | Notes | Price |
| The Flying Dinosaur | – Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
– Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – The Flying Dinosaur – Choose one: The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D or Jurassic Park – The Ride
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket for Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | From JPY 18,800 |
| Fun Ride | – Yoshi’s Adventure
– Despicable Me Minion Mayhem – JAWS – Choose one: The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D or Jurassic Park – The Ride
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World | From JPY 18,800 |
| Variety Choice | – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
– Flight of the Hippogriff – Choose one: The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D or Jurassic Park – The Ride
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | From JPY 18,800 |
| Limited | – Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop
– Jujutsu Kaisen The Real 4D – The Flying Dinosaur – Choose one: Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS
|
From JPY 18,800 | |
| Limited and Variety Choice | – Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
– Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Jujutsu Kaisen: The Real 4D – Choose one: The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D or Jurassic Park – The Ride
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket for Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | From JPY 18,800 |
| Thrills and Variety | – Sadako’s Curse: Dark Horror Ride
– Flying Dinosaur – The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man or The Ride 4K3D – Choose one: Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS
|
From JPY 18,800 |
Universal Express Pass 7
Includes access to 7 different attractions
| Universal Express Pass | Inclusions | Notes | Price |
| Backdrop and Spider-Man | – Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
– Yoshi’s Adventure – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Flight of the Hippogriff – Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop – The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man/The Ride 4K3D – Choose one: Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS
|
Includes Area Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | from JPY 23,800 |
| Limited & Variety | – Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
– Yoshi’s Adventure – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Flight of the Hippogriff – Jujutsu Kaisen: The Real 4-D – The Amazing Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D – Choose one: Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | from JPY 23,800 |
| Despicable Me Minion Mayhem | – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
– Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge – Yoshi’s Adventure – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Flight of the Hippogriff – The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man/The Ride 4K3D – Choose one: Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS
|
Includes an Area Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | from JPY 23,800 |
Universal Studios Japan with the VIP Private Personal Experience Tour
Make the most of your group or family visit to Universal Studios Japan with the VIP Private Personal Experience Tour! Enjoy fast-track access to rides with wait times as short as 5 minutes, plus lunch and dinner at fantastic exclusive restaurants. Your personal tour guide will ensure a smooth, customized experience, with plenty of time for amazing photos against stunning backdrops.
What Are Timed-Entry Tickets?
Timed-entry ticket allows you to skip the lines and enter an attraction on your designated time. With this, you don’t have to queue for hours because you already have a set specific time to enter an attraction. While waiting, you can explore more of USJ or make use of their facilities.
You can get your Timed Entry Tickets in the following:
- Via the official USJ app
- At the park – register your Studio Pass before arriving to get Timed Entry Tickets anywhere inside
How to get your Timed Entry Ticket via the app:
Step 1: Scan and register the QR code on the Studio Pass/Annual Pass of each member of your group.
Step 2: Tap ‘Timed Entry eTicket’ then select ‘Register Park Passes.’
Step 3: At the park, open the app and go to ‘Timed Entry eTickets.’
Step 4: Select your desired attraction.
Step 5: Select the park passes of the members you want to get Timed Entry eTickets.
Step 6: Choose your preferred time.
Step 7: Confirm the attraction, date, number of people, and time then tap ‘Get It.’
Step 8: Screenshot or save your QR code.
Step 9: Have your Studio pass scanned at the park entrance to get the Timed Entry eTickets.
What is USJ’s Annual Pass?
The Annual Studio Pass is an admission ticket to enter and re-enter the park within a period of validity. This means that you don’t have to purchase a Studio Pass every time you visit Universal Studios Japan— with an Annual Studio Pass, you can re-enter the park after exiting. There are three types of Universal Annual Pass available:
- Universal Annual Pass: 70- to 75 blackout days
- Universal Annual Pass: 20 blackout days
- Universal Prime Annual Pass VIP: no blackout dates; most expensive</
What to Bring to USJ?
Make your park experience convenient by bringing some park essentials! Check out this list of things to bring and not to bring inside USJ:
✓ Your Studio Pass (plus Express Pass, if any)
✓ Cash
✓ Valid ID
✓ Extra set of clothes – there are lockers inside!
Prohibited Items in USJ
✗ Dangerous items such as knives, weapons, and the likes)
✗ Drones or remote-controlled vehicles
✗ Helmet
✗ Pets (except service animals)
✗ Suitcase or carts
Universal Studios Japan Map
Universal Studios Japan is 54 hectares wide, with 11 areas to explore. It’s so huge, but here’s a tip: download and check their Interactive Map to see and read about each area through their Studio Guide. Better yet, download this USJ map to access it offline!
Tips for Families Traveling with Children and Seniors
It’s fun to explore Universal Studios alone, but it’s ten times the fun to explore the park with your family. To make your park experience safe and more enjoyable, these are some facilities created for your convenience:
- Playrooms for small children
- First-aid stations – at the park’s entrance right side
- Nursing Rooms
- Changing Rooms
- Wheelchair and stroller rental – with fee
- Lockers
Head to Family Services near Guest Services in Universal Wonderland to access these facilities.
Access for Persons with Disability
USJ is an inclusive themepark for people of all ages and conditions. Here are some notes to guide you in your visit:
- Use a Guest Support Pass if needed – ask a crew member to acquire one.
- For guests using wheelchairs, there are rides where you need to transfer to a ride set or remain in your wheelchair. You may approach a park staff for assistance.
- All rest rooms are wheel-chair accessible.
- There are some ride restrictions for guests with wig or headwear that cannot be removed.
- Braille guides are available at Guest Services.
- Service dogs are permitted in all restaurants and shops in USJ, as well as in select attractions.
For more information, download the Rider’s Guide.
The Best Rides to Try in USJ
There are about 60 attractions and rides to experience in USJ. You may or may not be able to try all these in one day, but there are certainly some attractions you shouldn’t miss– they’re popular for a reason! Check these rides out that are all worth lining up for:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Scream your heart out as you race your way on Mario Kart. Go on a challenging ride and aim for the finish line as you go through a thrilling racing adventure!
Jurassic Park – The Ride
Be ready to get wet because it’s a wet and wild ride over at jurassic Park – The Ride. Escape the rage of T-Rex and encounter lifesized dinosaurs in this terrific river tour.
Hollywood Dream The Ride Backdrop
Adrenaline junkies, here’s the ride for you. Plunge from a 43 meter drop–backwards– when you ride the Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop. It’s the ultimate thrilling ride in USJ you shouldn’t miss.
Flight of the Hippogriff
All aboard at a hippogriff! Ride this junior roller coaster that sways, spirals, and dives for an extra exciting adventure ride at the Universal Studios Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
On 14 February 2025, Universal Studios Singapore will unveil Illumination’s Minion Land, an exciting three-part adventure that immerses visitors into the whimsical world of the Despicable Me and Minions films. One of the highlights is Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, a thrilling simulator ride that transforms you into an actual Minion! Step into Gru’s home lab and experience chaotic, laugh-out-loud mayhem unfold right before your eyes.
Best Shows to Catch in USJ
Not a fan of thrilling rides? Don’t worry, Universal Studios Japan has plenty of parades and shows for everyone:
Shrek’s 4-D Adventure
Journey with Shrek and Donkey as you enter their 4-D world! Join the duo in this thrilling adventure that kids and kids-at-heart will definitely love.
Universal Spectacle Night Parade
All your favorites have come to life in this nostalgic night parade. Whether you’re a Harry Potter, Transformers, Jurassic World, or Minions fan, you’ll love watching this street parade transform into a disco party.
Super Nintendo World Meet Up
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Meet the friends from the Mushroom Kingdom at the Super Nintendo World! Don’t miss this chance to see Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach and take photos as they roam around the park.
Sesame Street 4-D Movie Magic
Welcome to Sesame Street – enjoy watching a 4D movie complete with special effects that’ll make movie-watching extremely fun. Meet the friends from Big Bird to Bert, Elmo, and Cookie Monster in this fun-tastic attraction.
SING on Tour
Witness a live theater show with the cast of SING! See Buster Moon, Meena, Rosita and more perform as they belt out songs that’ll take your breath away.
Where to Eat in USJ?
You’ll never go hungry inside Universal Studios Japan because there are restaurants and snack shops catering to all hungry parkgoers–even those with dietary restrictions. Locate these restos on the map and have a satisfying meal!
Finnegan’s Bar & Grill
Head to the Big Apple inside USJ to indulge in scrumptious Western food at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill. They serve highball cocktails, hamburger, seafood, and even plant-based menu items.
Operating Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday to Thursday); 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Weekends); 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Friday)
Studio Stars Restaurant
Dine inside a movie studio and have a lunch feast with the whole family! Studio Stars restaurant serves rice meals, Western dishes, baby and kids meals, and non-pork, non-alcoholic menu items as well.
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Monday to Thursday); 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Friday); 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturday), 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday)
Three Broomsticks
Have a taste of the quintessential wizarding beverage, the Butterbeer, at Three Broomsticks! Find this restaurant at the Universal Studios Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and try their bewitching dishes that feature a traditional English feast.
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Monday to Thursday); 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Friday); 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturday); 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday)
Pop-A-Nana
Your USJ experience wouldn’t be complete without getting your own popcorn bucket. Try the Minion’s favorite chocolate banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-A-Nana, and get yourself a cute popcorn bucket too!
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
Beverly Hills Boulangerie
For your afternoon snack, visit this quaint French-style Cafe serving coffee, sandwiches, and confectionery. They also offer plant-based menu items for those with dietary restrictions.
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Thursday); 9a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday) 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Saturday); 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday)
For the full list of restaurants and food stalls inside Universal Studios Japan, click here.
Souvenir Shopping in USJ
Don’t leave the park without getting a souvenir! There are currently 49 shops in USJ offering diverse merchandise, perfect for gifting. Here are some souvenir shop favorites:
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- Characters 4U: for Sesame Street merchandise
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- 1 UP Factory: for Super Nintendo World merchandise
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- Hello Kitty’s Ribbon Boutique: for Hello Kitty merch
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- Jurassic Outfitters: for Jurassic World merch
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- Minions Pop Shop: for Minion, Tim, and Fluffy items
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- The Amazing Spider-Man Store: for Spider-Man merch
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- Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment: for Harry Potter items
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- Universal Studios Store: the largest store for all popular USJ items
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- California Confectionery: for sweets and specialty snacks
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- Peanuts Corner Store: for Peanuts and Snoopy items
See the full list of shops here.
Best Time to Visit USJ
USJ is an all-year-round destination, but if you want to plan your visit depending on the weather, here’s what to expect during:
Winter (December to February)
Wear warm clothes as you’ll be outdoors most of the time. The park closes earlier than usual during winter, so visit early in the morning to make the most out of your time here. If you prefer fewer crowds, winter is a good season to go. Some attractions such as Super Nintendo World will have special winter decorations during this period.
Spring (March to April)
The park closes a little later when it’s spring. It’s the best time to visit USJ because it’s not too hot and too cold. You may also be able to see cherry blossoms in full bloom depending on your time of visit.
Summer (July to August)
It could get too hot amd humid in the summer, so best to wear comfortable clothes and an umbrella for protection. It’s the peak season of Universal Studios, so prepare for longer queueing lines, especially during the weekend.
Fall (October to November)
Autumn is another good time to visit USJ. You get nice views and the weather will be ideal. Crowds are also moderate during these months.
Hotels within Universal City
There are several partner hotels near Universal Studios Japan where you can stay, for easier access to the attraction. Check out these hotels:
Oriental Hotel Universal City
A 1-minute walk from JR Universal City Station
Address: 2-78 Shimaya 6-chome, Konohana-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
Website: https://universalcity.oriental-hotels.com/en/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
The Singulari Hotel & SkySpa
Has direct access to the train station
Address: 6-chōme-2-25 Shimaya, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0024, Japan
Website: https://www.candeohotels.com/en/singulari/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
The Park Front Hotel
Closest hotel to USJ
Address: 6-2-52 Shimaya, Konohana-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan 554-0024
Website: https://en.parkfront-hotel.com/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 12 p.m.
Hotel Kintetsu
Offers Sesame Street-themed rooms
Address: 6-chōme-2-68 Shimaya, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0024, Japan
Website: https://www.miyakohotels.ne.jp/hotel-kintetsu/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Hotel Keihan Universal Tower
Known for Osaka’s first natural hot spring with views
Address: 6-2-45,Shimaya，Konohana-ku, 554-0024 Osaka, Japan
Website: https://www.hotelkeihan.co.jp/tower/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Hotel Universal Port
See the minions in this hotel
Address: 1-chōme-1-111 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Website: https://universalport.orixhotelsandresorts.com/
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Hotel Universal Port Vita
Nature-themed hotel with Minions
Address: 6 Chome Shimaya, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0024, Japan
Website: https://www.hoteluniversalport.jp/hotelguide_vita/HUPV_en.html
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Liber Hotel
Largest of all the partner hotels
Address: 1-1-35 Sakurajima Konohana-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka-fu, Japan
Website: https://hotel-liber.jp/english/
Check in: 2 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
