Universal Studios Japan Tips: Universal Studios Japan Review

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With an estimated 12.35 million annual visitors, Universal Studios Japan is one of the busiest parks in the world.



Universal Citywalk -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Universal Studios Japan Lockers?

Small lockers for personal items are located throughout the park and can be rented for a small fee payable by bank or credit card.  The park does not allow visitors to bring larger suitcases (like carry-on or checked-size airline luggage).  They advise you to store that luggage at your hotel.

We did find lockers that were able to accommodate our carry-on-sized roller board suitcases at Hotel Keihan Universal Tower in Universal CityWalk.  Tokens for the lockers are available for purchase at the hotel check-in desk.



lockers -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Universal Studios Japan Express Pass?

The Express Pass at Universal Studios Japan is an option for those who want to maximize their time by skipping the regular lines and experiencing more attractions in a shorter amount of time.

You'll notice that some attractions have a specifically designated Express Pass entrance. By presenting your Express Pass, you can bypass the regular queue and head straight into the ride.

There are various types of Express Passes available, each offering a different level of access and benefits. The Express Pass 3, allows you to skip the lines at three specific attractions. The Express Pass 7, grants you access to seven specific attractions. Additionally, there are specific individual ride Express Passes for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and other popular attractions.

Prices range from approximately ¥4,500 to ¥11,000 ($41 to $99 USD) per person.

Express pass prices vary by the day of your visit, attraction popularity, and park crowd level.

Super Nintendo World Universal Studios Japan, Osaka

All tickets (express passes and regular park admission) include the opportunity to get a timed ticket entrance to the new Super Nintendo World.



Ticket -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Where to Buy Universal Studios Japan Tickets

  1. Official Website: The easiest and most reliable way to purchase Universal Studios Japan tickets is through their official website. Simply visit their website and look for the "Ticket" section, where you can browse the available options and make your purchase online. This method allows you to select specific dates and ticket types, ensuring a smooth entry when you arrive at the park.

    Important Note: Visitors from the United States have reported long waits for online credit card approval causing a long wait for the tickets to arrive in your email inbox. We did not receive our online tickets in time for our visit. We had to buy tickets at the gate and then file for a refund when we got home.

  2. Resellers and Marketplace Websites: There are several resellers and marketplace websites where you can find Universal Studios Japan tickets. Sites like Klook and Viator offer discount tickets and ticket packages including ground transportation.

  3. On-site Ticket Booths: If you prefer to purchase your ticket on the day of your visit, you can head directly to the on-site ticket booths at Universal Studios Japan. However, please note that during peak seasons or busy weekends, there is a chance that tickets may sell out. To ensure availability and avoid long lines, it's always recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.



How Much do Universal Studios Japan Tickets Cost?

The cost of Universal Studios Japan tickets varies depending on various factors such as the age of the visitor, the type of ticket, and the time of the year. Here is a general idea of the ticket pricing:

  1. One-Day Studio Pass: The standard option for visitors who want to experience the park's attractions, shows, and entertainment for a single day. Prices for the One-Day Studio Pass vary depending on the date of visit and age category. For adults (12 years and older), the cost ranges from approximately ¥7,800 to ¥8,900 ($70 to $80 USD). For children (4-11 years), the prices range from approximately ¥5,400 to ¥6,200 ($49 to $56 USD).

  2. Two-Day Studio Pass: This option allows visitors to enjoy the park for two consecutive days, providing more time to explore all of its wonders. The Two-Day Studio Pass is more cost-effective if you plan to spend more than a single day at Universal Studios Japan. The price range for adults is approximately ¥14,800 to ¥16,900 ($134 to $153 USD), and for children, it is approximately ¥10,400 to ¥11,800 ($94 to $107 USD).

  3. VIP Wristband: For those craving an exclusive and luxurious experience, the VIP Wristband offers numerous perks, including unlimited express access to attractions, preferred seating for shows, and reserved parking. The price for this premium experience is around ¥45,000 ($407 USD) per person.

Hollywood -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

How To Get to Universal Studios Japan via Public Transportation

The most convenient way to get to Universal Studios Japan is by train or via the JR Subway line. Here are the step-by-step directions:

Osaka To Universal Studios Via Train:

  • Make your way to Osaka Station, which is the main transportation hub in Osaka.

  • From Osaka Station, switch to the Osaka Loop Line (Osaka Kanjo-sen) and board a clockwise train bound for Universal City Station.

  • After 10 minutes, you'll arrive at Universal City Station. The station drops you at Universal Citywalk, the main entrance is a short walk away.

Osaka To Universal Studios Via JR Line:

  • Take the subway to Nishikujo Station using either the JR Yumesaki Line, JR Sakurajima Line, or Hanshin Namba Line.

  • At Nishikujo Station, transfer to the JR Sakurajima Line and board a train heading towards Universal City Station.

  • After a 2-minute ride, you'll reach Universal City Station.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogwarts Castle -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

What Are the Best Rides at Universal Studios Japan?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter brings J.K. Rowling's series to life. Explore the cobbled streets of Hogsmeade, shop for wands at Ollivanders, and sip butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a high thrill dirk ride through Hogwarts Castle. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a smaller coaster with great theming and family-friendly thrills.

Jurassic Park - The Ride is a “you may get wet” raft ride complete with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and a theme-park-cheezy storyline inspired by the Jurrasic Park movie series. The Flying Dinosaur is a popular rollercoaster unique to the park. The ride simulates flying through the air as a Pteranodon.

Hollywood Dream - The Ride has a choice of two tracks, including a backward option. This launch coaster launches you into the heart of the film industry. Feel the rush as you soar through loops, twists, and high-speed drops, capturing the essence of a tumultuous Hollywood dream.

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem is a 3D motion simulator that lets riders immerse themselves in the world of Gru and his loyal Minion companions.

Jaws the Ride entrance -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Jaws is a classic Universal Studios favorite. You’ll take an exciting boat ride through Amity Island while being chased by the notorious shark.

The newest addition to the park, Super Nintendo World lets visitors live their fantasy of being inside the world of the Super Mario Bros. The main attraction, Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge, is a modern, cutting-edge ride experience themed after the popular Mario Kart video game franchise. A softer and more family-friendly ride, Yoshi's Adventure sends you on a journey to find brightly colored eggs riding on a Yoshi of your own.

Doraemon XR Ride: Nobita's Sky Utopia -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Our favorite ride in the park was the virtual reality coaster Doraemon XR Ride: Nobita's Sky Utopia, featuring a character popular in Japan, Doraemon. Doraemon is a “cat-like robot” from the future who lives in Paradapia, a perfect world in the sky. The VR ride is the first time where the VR goggle experience really worked in a meaningful way on a coaster.

General Tips for Visiting Universal Studios Japan

To beat the crowds and maximize your time arrive before the park opens. This will allow you to experience popular attractions with shorter queues and take advantage of the park's full operating hours. Also, keep in mind that the park may close entry once it reaches its capacity. Arriving early also allows you the best chance of getting a timed entry ticket to Super Mario World.

Studio Backlot -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Research the park's layout and attractions in advance, and plan a rough itinerary of your must-see experiences. Be sure to prioritize popular attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, or the Jurassic Park Ride. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid disappointment if queues get too long for certain rides. Some shows and parades happen only once or twice daily.

If you're looking to skip the regular lines and enjoy more rides, consider purchasing an Express Pass. This pass grants you limited express access to select attractions, significantly reducing waiting times. Although it comes with an additional cost, it can be worth it if you have limited time and want to experience as much as possible.

Entrance -  Universal Studios Japan - Osaka

Exploring Universal Studios Japan can be exhausting, so remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Bottled water is available for purchase throughout the park, but you can also bring your own refillable water bottle or just ask for a cup of water at any restaurant.



It’s probably going to rain. Packing a cumbersome umbrella may seem like a good idea, but it’s a challenge to be in a line with an umbrella or to navigate crowds without poking someone’s eye out. A better idea is a small, disposable poncho that can fit in your pocket or purse. It will keep you dry without weighing you down and is easily discarded at the end of the day.


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