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If Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Tokyo was the highlight of my last trip, then Universal Studios Japan (USJ) was hands-down the most anticipated destination on my Osaka itinerary. From buying tickets and Express Passes to navigating Super Nintendo World, here’s everything you need to know for your first visit to USJ — minus the stress! Check out the Osaka Amazing Pass for traveling to Osaka and Haruka ticket information for convenient travel from Kansai Airport to Osaka.
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1. Universal Studios Japan Tickets: Your Essential Pass
Before you start dreaming about thrilling rides and Mario Kart adventures, you need to secure your Universal Studios Japan admission ticket. This is the one ticket you absolutely cannot skip — even if you plan to buy an Express Pass or entry reservation for Super Nintendo World. Without the basic admission ticket, none of the other add-ons matter.
You can choose between a 1-day, 1.5-day, or 2-day pass, depending on your travel plans. For a short Osaka trip, I recommend the 1-day pass. It’s perfect for experiencing all the highlights without feeling rushed.
Pro Tip: Save time and money by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Many platforms offer discounted prices for Universal Studios Japan tickets, so don’t wait until the last minute.
2. The Perks of an Express Pass
Once you’ve secured your admission ticket, it’s time to decide if you want to splurge on an Express Pass. This pass allows you to skip long lines and hop onto your favorite rides faster. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the Express 4 or Express 7 options. These passes come with pre-scheduled times for certain rides, making your day more efficient. If you’re planning to visit the newly opened Donkey Kong’s Crazy Tram Car in Koopa World, an Express Pass is a must. The queues for this ride are expected to be intense, so book early to guarantee your spot!
Hot Tip: Express Passes include some of USJ’s most popular attractions. Pick one that matches your ride preferences for the best experience.
3. Top Ride Picks at Universal Studios Japan
After trying almost every ride at USJ, here’s my personal ranking of the must-try attractions:
1) Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey:
As a die-hard Potterhead, this ride blew me away. It’s like stepping into the movies with jaw-dropping realism. Honestly, I wanted to ride it twice!
2) Hollywood Dream: The Ride:
This classic roller coaster is divided into two tracks — the standard and the “Back Drop.” I chose the regular version because, well, I’m not that brave! It’s thrilling, fast, and an all-time favorite.
3) Jaws:
At first glance, it seems like a calm boat ride. But once you’re on it, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a fan favorite. The surprises are worth every minute.
4) The Flying Dinosaur:
Okay, full disclosure: this one terrified me. I might have a mild fear of heights, and this ride pushed me to my limits. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll love it. But for me? Once was more than enough.
5) Super Nintendo World (Mario Kart):
While the Mario Kart ride wasn’t as thrilling as I expected, the immersive atmosphere of Super Nintendo World more than made up for it. It’s a visual feast for Nintendo fans.
4. Navigating Super Nintendo World
Super Nintendo World is the crown jewel of USJ, and getting in requires some strategy. There are two main ways to secure your entry:
Timed Entry Ticket (reservation): You can grab this free pass once you’re inside the park, but availability is limited.
Express Pass with Nintendo World Entry Guarantee: This is the stress-free option for guaranteed access.
I managed to snag a Timed Entry Ticket for 4:30 PM, but here’s a tip: if you want to avoid the afternoon slump, aim for an earlier time. It’s worth splurging on an Express Pass if it means enjoying Super Nintendo World when your energy levels are high.
5. Don’t Miss the Shows!
Beyond the rides, USJ offers incredible live shows. One standout is WaterWorld, a high-octane performance with stunning stunts and special effects. Be sure to check the schedule and plan your day around catching at least one show.
6. Universal Studios Japan Final Thoughts
Universal Studios Japan is an absolute must-visit for thrill-seekers and pop culture fans alike. With a little planning and the right tickets, you can make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re waving a wand at Hogwarts or racing through Koopa’s kingdom, USJ is a dream come true for every traveler.
