This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure
Universal Studios Japan has become an essential on almost every Osaka itinerary and it’s not too surprising why! But is visiting Universal Studios Japan worth it? We share our experience and honest review, give you all the essential tips you need to plan your visit and answer that big question – “Do I really need an express pass?”.
We’ve visited a lot of theme parks, but there’s no denying that Japan does things on a whole different scale! Universal Studios in Osaka is one of Japan’s largest theme parks and brings similar crowds to Tokyo Disneyland!
And with those huge crowds, you need a well-formed plan to make the most of your visit, so you don’t spend your entire day waiting in line. Let’s explore everything you need to know to decide if it should be on your travel itinerary.

Is Universal Studios Japan Worth It?
Before visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ), we had never visited a Universal theme park before. They haven’t yet graced us with one of our own in Australia and previous opportunities were when our kids were too little to make it worth the cost.
So when we started planning our Japan itinerary, we knew it was a must-visit!
With areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and the ridiculously popular Super Nintendo World, Universal Studios Japan brings beloved franchises to life in such a fun way.

Universal Studios Japan is a unique experience, even for those who’ve visited other Universal Parks, thanks to its distinctive Japanese flair.
While a visit to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea will bring that special kind of magic to life, they aren’t known for their thrill rides.
Universal Studios in Japan, on the other hand, is especially worth visiting for thrill seekers, fans of Japanese pop culture, or families with kids.
So the short answer – Is Universal Studios Japan worth it? Yes!
It is if any of the above appeals to you. Even if you have visited other Universal Studios parks before, the Japanese experience is really unique.
But to make the most of your day, you need a game plan for your visit.
If you’ve ever visited a Disney Park, you might be somewhat prepared for the extra planning that goes into it, but a visit to USJ is a whole new kind of prep.
Make sure you also check out our 3-day Osaka itinerary to plan your days around your USJ visit too!
Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Universal Studios Japan

It doesn’t really matter what day of the year you visit Universal Studios Japan – there will be crowds! And if you’re anything like us, the thought of standing in line all day doesn’t sound like a fun day out.
Thankfully there is a way around this, but it does turn a reasonably priced day at a theme park into a rather expensive experience. More on that below.
Here are some things you need to know before visiting:
- Opening Hours: USJ typically opens from 8:30 AM to 9 PM, but times vary every day, so check the official website and then arrive earlier – even if the park states it will open at 8:30, it will likely open before this time.
- Peak Times: Avoid Golden Week and national holidays if you want to skip the longest lines.
- Waiting Time: Even with a plan or an express pass, you will encounter some waits. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and sunscreen, especially in Summer.
- Download The App: Make sure you have the official USJ app downloaded to your phone prior to arrival and have your tickets ready to scan.


Insider Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes before the website opening time, especially if you don’t have an Express Pass. Hit up Super Nintendo World first thing to beat the crowds if this is important to you.
Ticket Options for Universal Studios Japan

Deciding which Universal Studios Japan tickets to purchase is one of the most overwhelming parts of the visit. Sounds silly, but let me explain.
There are multiple types of tickets available, including add-on passes and express passes that can significantly change your experience on the day. Some of these passes sell out very quickly.
For this reason, your best option is to know what type of passes you want well in advance and to book them online via Klook. We recommend Klook because the official site doesn’t always accept international credit cards
USJ tickets range from single-day Studio Passes to special early entry passes. Ticket prices vary based on the season and the day of the week you are visiting.
Here are the most common types of Universal Studios Passes:
- Standard Studio Pass: This is the basic ticket that will get you entry into the park. It is available in 1-day, 1.5 and 2-day options.
- Early Entry: This pass allows you entry into the park 15 minutes before gates open for general entry. This means you need to be waiting before they open since they do frequently open before the advertised time. It gives you a head start with securing a timed entry into popular worlds like Super Nintendo World or simply being in the gates early enough to walk straight in before timed entry is turned on.
- Timed Entry Tickets: To manage the crowds, a timed entry pass is needed for popular areas like Super Nintendo World. These are limited and often sell out. You can also try your luck getting a free timed-entry ticket via the app once you enter the park, but it is not guaranteed.
- Express Pass: Add-on pass for skipping lines at the most popular rides. These come in Express Pass 4 and Express Pass 7 and include timed entry into Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter World.
If you are purchasing an Express Pass, you still need a Standard Studio Pass to enter the park!
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass: Is It Worth It?
The Universal Express Pass is an add-on pass that allows you to bypass long lines on the most popular rides, including Hollywood Dream: The Ride and Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge. The cost varies by season and selected attractions, but it can be invaluable on busy days.
The only thing is that they are not cheap! Not only do you need to purchase your Standard Studio Pass for entry into Universal Studios, you also need to purchase the Express Pass on top.
This makes a relatively cheap day out into a very expensive day – and if you are on a tight budget, an express pass might not suit you!
We pondered this decision A LOT! Initially we were going to skip the Express Pass and considered getting an Early Entry Pass instead, but after doing a lot of research in Facebook groups and online, we decided to go for Express Passes.

If this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you and you aren’t sure if you’re going to visit USJ again or if experiencing Super Nintendo World (and the soon-to-open Donkey Kong Country Expansion) is important to you, the Express Pass is worth it!
This is why we decided to get the extra passes. For reference, there are several types of Express Passes.
Express Pass 7 is the most popular. These give you express entry to 7 different attractions and there are a few variations, depending on your thrill level or top must-do rides. They typically all include Super Nintendo World.
We opted for the Express Pass 4.
The Express Pass 4 only includes 4 express attractions and as such, it is at a cheaper price point. Our kids aren’t the biggest daredevils and would not have ridden some of the more intense thrill rides. This was the perfect option for us and DEFINITELY WORTH IT!
The other important thing to know about Express Passes is that some of your included rides will have a timed entry where you need to ride within a certain time period (usually 1 hour), while others you can ride any time you like.
If you are doing the Express Pass 7, this will essentially plan most of your day for you and when you purchase you are given a choice of different time slots to choose from.
We chose afternoon slots so we could get in early on some of the rides before the queues were huge.
So in short, if you hate waiting in lines, want to make the most of your visit without missing out on top attractions and have the extra budget to spare, it’s worth the investment to get the Express Pass.
Insider Tip: Express Passes almost always sell out in advance! They are typically released 2 months earlier and your best option is to jump on Klook and purchase them ASAP so you don’t miss out!
How To Plan A Day At Universal Studios Japan
Now that we’ve gotten the passes out of the way and you’ve hopefully decided if you’re going to go with Express Passes or not, let’s plan your visit.
These tips will also be helpful if you’re not getting skip-the-line passes to try and maximise your time in the park.
Before You Visit:
- Purchase Studio Passes and Express Passes online via Klook
- Download the Universal Studios Japan app to your phone
- Scan your passes into the app
- Print or save Express Passes to your phone for easy scanning
Before Park Opening:
- Arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled opening times on the website
- Have entry passes ready to scan at the gate
Immediately Upon Entry
- Book timed entry into Super Nintendo World
- Make your way to your top priority ride or attraction
Insider Tip: If you don’t have an Express Pass, you might want to head straight for Super Nintendo World. If they open the park early, they often don’t turn on the timed entry system until the advertised opening time, so you can often walk straight into SNW without a timed entry and jump on a ride.

For first-time visitors, starting with popular attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World can be wise, as they’re known for long waits. Save activities with lower wait times, such as shows, for later in the day.
Use the USJ app to monitor wait times and create an efficient route.
Some rides also offer single rider lines for faster access. However, we found that some of these were equally as long as the standard wait lines during our visit.
The good thing is that the park does stay open for around 12 hours – this is a massive day and they don’t typically allow pass-outs so be prepared for a lot of walking and waiting.
How To Get To Universal Studios Japan From Osaka
USJ is conveniently accessible from Osaka’s major transit points. For most travellers, the JR Yumesaki Line from Osaka Station to Universal-City Station is the easiest route, taking around 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Osaka Loop Line or arrive by car, though parking fees are high.
If staying in Tempozan Village area, there is also a Universal Studios ferry that will take you across the water. It’s not cheap though (around 900 yen per person), considering just up a bit, you can catch a free ferry (and walk 15 minutes).
Where To Stay Near Universal Studios Japan

For convenience, staying close to the park is a great option, particularly if you are visiting with kids like we did or doing multiple days.
We opted to stay close because the last thing we wanted to do was navigate public transport after a long day in the park, with exhausted kids.
Here are some great Universal Studios Japan accommodation options:
- The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan – The closest official hotel, just steps away from the park entrance. Offers themed rooms and stunning park views.
- Hotel Universal Port Vita – We stayed here and it was great and affordable!
- Hotel Universal Port – A popular family-friendly hotel with Minions-themed rooms and a 5-minute walk from the park.
- Hotel Keihan Universal Tower – Located within Universal CityWalk, this hotel is only a 2-3 minute walk from the park.
- Liber Hotel Universal Studios Japan – Slightly further but still close, with about a 10-minute walk to the park. It’s a more luxurious option with views of Osaka Bay.
- The Singulari Hotel & Skyspa – Located within Universal CityWalk, it features modern amenities and a rooftop spa with great views.
If you’re visiting on a budget, Osaka’s central neighbourhoods are a short train ride away and offer more affordable options.
Best Universal Studios Japan Attractions

Universal Studios Japan’s top attractions span several themed lands, each offering unique experiences:
- Super Nintendo World: Walk through Yoshi’s Adventure, visit Donkey Kong Country when it opens, and play interactive games. Timed Entry may be required.
- Minion Park: A favourite for families, with zany rides like Minion Mayhem.
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Stroll Hogsmeade, ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and try Butterbeer.
- Jurassic Park: Home to the intense Flying Dinosaur roller coaster.
- Universal Wonderland: Targetted to younger visitors, you will find Hello Kitty and Sesame Street attractions here.
- Hollywood: Walk along Hollywood Boulevard with rides and entertainment.
- New York: Step back in time to 1930s New York City
- San Francisco: A portside area with cafes and restaurants next to the lagoon.
- Amity Village: A fishing village themed off the Jaws franchise.
- WaterWorld: This is where you will find the WaterWorld stunt show.
We mentioned above that we didn’t do any of the big thrill rides during our visit, mostly because the kids aren’t keen on big thrills and because we weren’t prepared to wait in line for 2+ hours for some of them that weren’t covered on our Express Pass 4.
But if ride times are anything to go by, some of them are amongst the most popular rides at USJ. These included:
- Hollywood Dream: This rollercoaster has 2 modes – forwards or backwards
- The Flying Dinosaur: This rollercoaster is unique in that you’re positioned like you’re flying which looks awesomely terrifying!

Our favourite rides at Univeral Studios Osaka were:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: This ride is a unique combination of a rollercoaster and simulator in one and the theming was so cool! Easily our favourite of the day!
- Mario Kart Koopa’s Challenge: Real-life Mario Kart. This was fun, with an actual computer game element to it. You need to wear special hats and goggles which are quite heavy but a cool experience.
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: This was a really fun ride that is a simulator with lots of plunges and a cute storyline.
- Jaws: A relaxed boat ride with a few splashes and shark surprises!
Rides that are only worth doing if the line is short:
- Yoshi’s Adventure: A slow ride that’s great for younger children and for a cool view of SNW. The theming is awesome but the ride is pretty dull.
- Flight of the Hippogriff: We didn’t ride this but all reviews say it’s over in 30 seconds and not very exciting.
Aside from rides, there are also shows, performances and street entertainment happening around the park.
The WaterWorld stunt show is worth watching! Lots of cool effects… especially near the end (you’ll see).

SING on Tour is cute for little kids who love the movies. Detective Conan 4D Live Show was fine. We don’t know many anime characters but needed a chance to rest our legs in air conditioning, so it was entertaining enough.
And the various entertainment in the Harry Potter area were cute. Magical Creatures, Hippogriff Magical Lesson and Frog Choir.


With a blend of thrill rides and interactive experiences, USJ has something for everyone, from favourite rides for adrenaline junkies to character-themed areas perfect for kids.
Insider Tip: Don’t bother with the Power Up Bands when visiting SNW. Yes, the idea of playing the mini-games in the area sounds cool, but you’ll just be spending 40 yen to wait in line for 30 minutes just to tap a block. We mistook a few of the power-up lines as actual ride lines, they were that long!
Food At Universal Studios Japan
USJ’s food options are as exciting as the rides but be prepared for a higher price point. We were surprised by how affordable food was at Tokyo Disney Resort. USJ food prices are on the higher side.
You also can’t take your own food into the park either.

We paid around 6000 yen for a pizza at Louie’s N.Y Pizza Parlour. It was big and fed all 4 of us for dinner, but at approximately AUD 60, yikes!
Make sure you try the iconic green and red pancakes at Mario Cafe & Store. One is a strawberry shortcake and the other has a cheesecake filling. This was the one thing we ate on the day that lived up to the hype. They were yum!

Here are some popular choices:
- Three Broomsticks: Enjoy British fare with a side of Butterbeer in Hogsmeade.
- Mario Café & Store: Try the iconic green and red pancakes and themed drinks.
- Mel’s Drive-In: A retro American diner in the Hollywood area, perfect for a quick bite.
- Kinopio’s Cafe: Mario-themed foods that look cool, but maybe look better than they taste.
Insider Tip: Grab meals and snacks during off-peak meal times to avoid long lines, especially for popular options in Super Nintendo World. It can be so hard to find a table otherwise.
Special Events At Universal Studios Japan
Throughout the year, USJ hosts several seasonal events, with the two most popular each year being:
- Halloween Horror Nights: Featuring haunted houses and scare zones during September and October.
- Christmas Celebration: A winter wonderland complete with lights, parades, and themed treats.

We were lucky enough to visit during Halloween Horror Nights and it made the whole day even more fun.
I think we might have had enough by mid-afternoon otherwise, not willing to spend time waiting for ride lines, but knowing that we had an evening of entertainment, we stayed until around 8 pm.
The costumes were incredible and terrifying with lots of fun extra entertainment and attractions happening all around the park. Best of all, it’s all included in the cost of a standard entry pass – no extra charge for Halloween Horror Nights!
Summary: Should You Visit Universal Studios Japan?
If you have the time and the budget to spend on a visit to Universal Studios in Japan, it is worth it! With detailed theming, beloved franchises, and the most thrilling rides, it’s a must for theme park enthusiasts.
The rides we did were great and the extra entertainment was a lot of fun.
Our day at Universal Studios Japan was right up there with our Disney Vacation Package as far as expenses go, without all the extra perks of a Vacation Package. We weren’t expecting it to be THAT EXPENSIVE!

However, I don’t think we would have enjoyed ourselves as much without the Express Passes because the lines are insane all day long! Even right up until the park closes, some of them have upward of 2-hour waits – crazy!
In saying that, a 1-day pass was more than enough for us. If not for Halloween Horror Nights, we would have been done earlier in the day and satisfied with the time we spent at the park.
It would also be best for bigger kids who can appreciate the attractions vs visiting with babies or toddlers. Our kids were a great age at 9 and 11 (even if they aren’t big thrill-seekers). Plus you need a fair bit of endurance for the huge day you will have.
But if you’re short on time or budget, Osaka’s other attractions may be more practical.
Book your Universal Studios Japan passes and Express Passes online
Visiting Tokyo Disney too? Read our guide on which park is better – Tokyo Disneyland Vs Tokyo DisneySea
More Japan trip planning resources:
Save This To Pinterest
