If you’re heading to Osaka, there’s no way you can skip Universal Studios Japan! Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to discover. With so many ticket options, which one owns the best value? Besides, in popular areas such as SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER, which rides and attractions are most recommended to experience? We’ve gathered all the essential information for you—so follow along and let’s step into this magical theme park together!
Choose Your Universal Studios Japan Tickets: Studio Pass vs Express Pass
If you want to enjoy all the popular attractions at Universal Studios Japan, the first thing to do is to pick the right tickets for your trip! Universal Studios Japan offers several types of tickets, along with various Express Pass options. Park hours at Universal Studios Japan can vary from day to day, and sometimes the park opens earlier than scheduled. To make the most of your visit, it’s always a good idea to arrive early or check the official website beforehand.
Ticket Types, Prices, and Express Passes Information
Since May 7, 2025, all tickets for Universal Studios Japan must be purchased online, and there will be no on-site tickets. The easiest way to get your tickets is through platforms like Klook or from major travel agencies. You can choose from 1-day, 1.5-day, or 2-day passes, each granting a different amount of time to explore the park. Make sure to check the details carefully so that you can plan your visit and enjoy every moment!
Ticket prices at Universal Studios Japan are flexible and are different for different dates. Before you place any order, make sure to check the ticket calendar for your chosen date to see the exact price.
| Ticket Type | Age | Price (JPY) | Access Time |
| 1-Day Pass |
Adult (12+) |
8,600–10,900 JPY |
Full-day access |
| 1.5-Day Pass |
Adult (12+) |
13,100–17,600 JPY |
First Day : Entry after 3:00 PM |
| 2-Day Pass |
Adult (12+) |
16,300–20,700 JPY |
Full-day access on both days |
- Universal Express Pass (requires a separate admission ticket):
The Express Pass comes in two main options: Express Pass 4 and Express Pass 7, each offering different choices. These tickets usually guarantee entry to popular areas like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, along with access to other famous attractions under certain time slots. The Express Pass is a great choice for visitors who want to enjoy multiple popular rides while minimizing wait times.
- Area Timed Entry Ticket:
If your goal is to wander through Super Nintendo World without lining up for the popular rides, we recommend getting a package that includes the Area Timed Entry Ticket. Simply show up at your reserved time and enjoy the colorful world without the stress of queues. There’s no need to rely on lottery tickets.
🚨 Keep in mind that the Express Pass does not include park admission and must be purchased separately. Both the Area Timed Entry Ticket and Express Pass may sell out quickly, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
Universal Studios Japan: Explore the Park’s Top Themed Areas – Which One’s Your Favorite?
Universal Studios Japan is home to 10 themed areas, with three highlights explored in detail: Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Minion Park:
Area 1 | Super Nintendo World
Step into Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World, and you’ll feel like you’ve literally jumped straight into the world of Mario! The park perfectly brings to life some of Nintendo’s most iconic game scenes and characters. Everywhere you look, familiar elements from the games pop up such as green warp pipes, Piranha Plants, and those classic yellow question blocks are all right before your eyes. Within this vibrant area, you’ll find two main zones: Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country, each offering its own unique adventures and attractions.
🚨 It’s highly recommended to grab an Area Entry Ticket: Advance Booking or Express Pass for this zone to guarantee your access. If you’d rather not spend extra, you can try your luck with the Area Timed/Standby Entry Ticket. Entry which isn’t guaranteed, all depends on luck!
👉 Recommended Attraction – Mine Cart Madness™
2024 marks the grand opening of Donkey Kong Country™! Step through a mysterious tunnel and enter a lush, jungle-filled world, ready for a wild adventure. Hop aboard Mine Cart Madness™, Donkey Kong’s thrilling roller coaster, as you speed through dense foliage and navigate heart-pounding broken track sections. It’s an adventurous ride that’s as exciting as it is fun!
🚨 Notice: To enter Donkey Kong Country™, you’ll need one of the following: Super Nintendo World™ Area Entry Ticket or a Timed/Standby Entry Ticket.
Area 2 | The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ feels truly magical, as if you’ve stepped right into J.K. Rowling’s enchanting universe. The towering Hogwarts Castle dominates the skyline, while the wizarding village of Hogsmeade™ is faithfully recreated with its charming shops and magical details straight out of the books and films. Every corner is filled with wonder, drawing you in and making it impossible not to fall in love with this spellbinding world.
👉 Recommended Attraction – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
A must-try, super-popular attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ completely redefines 3D ride experiences with incredibly realistic visuals, making you feel as if you’ve truly stepped into the wizarding world! The magical effects are astonishingly lifelike—you can sense the heat of flames or the chill in the air. From sight and sound to physical sensations, this ride delivers an unparalleled, fully immersive adventure!
Area 3 | Minion Park™
Minion Park™ is themed around the Despicable Me animated series, bringing multiple iconic scenes to life. Everywhere you look, mischievous and adorable Minions are up to their playful antics! Even more exciting, in the summer of 2025, Minion Park™ will expand to 1.4 times its original size. The park will also debut its first-ever ride with a moving walkway shooting experience, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, offering fans an all-new, action-packed adventure!
👉 Recommended Attraction – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™
With a massive screen that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into the Minions’ world, hop on the special ride vehicle and race through Gru’s laboratory alongside his three daughters and a horde of mischievous Minions. Get ready for a fun-filled, surprising, and thrilling adventure!
📖 You Might Also Like: Universal Studios Japan | Minion Park™ Expansion Coming Soon!
Beyond the three featured areas, the other seven areas at Universal Studios Japan™ are also worth exploring! These include Universal Wonderland™, Hollywood™, New York™, San Francisco™, Jurassic Park™, Amity Village™, and WaterWorld™. Each area offers unique attractions, themed shops, and plenty of dining options, from full-service restaurants to fun food carts—perfect for planning a day to fully explore every corner.
Limited-Time Events at Universal Studios Japan™
Universal Studios Japan™ also hosts periodic limited-time events. If you’re planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check the official website for the latest updates. Once you spot an event you like, you can get your tickets ready and join in the fun!
Must-Know Events at Universal Studios Japan™!
Among these exciting events, three annual celebrations stand out: Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The Halloween festivities usually run from September through November, featuring spine-chilling limited-time attractions as well as lively parties, making it a truly unforgettable way to celebrate Halloween at Universal Studios Japan™!
📖 You Might Also Like: Universal Studios Japan | Halloween 2025 Event Confirmed!
The Christmas and New Year’s Eve events run from December into January. During this period, the park offers exclusive seasonal treats, special parties, and dazzling light displays that create a festive atmosphere. On December 31st, there’s a special New Year’s Countdown show, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display to welcome the new year!
Universal Studios Japan™ Walking Street | TAKOPA Takoyaki Land™
Before reaching the entrance, you’ll first come across Universal Studios Japan™ Walking Street, which is mainly lined with restaurants and a few shopping stores. It’s a great spot to grab a meal before heading into the park. Don’t miss the Takoyaki Land™ located on the 4th floor!
Speaking of Osaka, you can’t skip takoyaki—this area brings together six unique shops, each offering its own special flavors. From rich, creamy fillings and crispy exteriors to creative twists on this classic snack, there’s something for every palate. It’s the perfect little treat to warm up your stomach before diving into the park!
Even more worth noting: when planning your visit to Universal Studios Japan™ along with other nearby areas, you can take advantage of the Have Fun in Kansai Pass, which lets you choose three special vouchers to redeem for various discounts and offers!
📖 You Might Also Like: What is the Have Fun in Kansai Pass 、Exclusive Attraction Maps
Universal Studios Japan™ Beginner’s FAQ: Can I bring food from outside? Is one day enough to enjoy everything?
Q1: How do I get to Universal Studios Japan
Getting to Universal Studios Japan is very convenient. If departing from Umeda Station, take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line directly to Universal Studios Japan™. From Osaka Namba Station, take the Hanshin Namba Line to Nishikujo Station, then also transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to reach the park.
Finally, if departing from Kansai International Airport, it is recommended to take the Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Nishikujo Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to arrive easily. All three routes allow a smooth transfer at Nishikujo Station, connecting you to the exciting journey at Universal Studios Japan
Q2: When is the best time to visit Universal Studios Japan to avoid crowds?
Basically, it’s recommended to avoid visiting on weekends and during Japanese holiday periods, such as Golden Week. Regarding tickets, consider which attractions or areas are your must-visit spots. If you plan to ride super-popular attractions like Mine Cart Madness™ or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, it’s still recommended to purchase an Express Pass, which can save you a lot of waiting time in line.
Q3: Can I bring food from outside into the park?
Bringing food from outside into the park is not allowed. Exceptions include water, non-alcoholic drinks in PET bottles, and baby or toddler food. Additionally, certain items are prohibited, such as suitcases, hazardous materials, drones, and more. For a complete list of restrictions, you can check the official website for details!
Q4: What is the Universal Studios Japan App?
It’s recommended to download the official Universal Studios Japan App before heading to the park. The App not only includes a park map and location features so you can easily navigate without getting lost, but also allows you to check ride waiting times, maintenance status, and show schedules, giving you real-time updates and full control over your park experience!
As you prepare for your trip to Universal Studios Japan™, a detailed guide is an indispensable companion. This article walks you through every key aspect—from ticket options and Express Pass tips, to must-visit areas and attractions, as well as transportation advice and frequently asked questions. By mastering these practical insights, you can avoid long waiting lines and plan your day smartly. For an even easier experience in Japan, it’s also highly recommended to use the Have Fun in Kansai Pass, making your trip planning even more convenient!
© Nintendo TM & © Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © J.K. Rowling.
MINIONS TM & © 2025 Universal Studios.
TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
Image credit：Universal Studios Japan
