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In this article, we have compiled a detailed guide for visiting Universal Studios Japan, including transportation tips, recommended attractions, preparation steps, and suggested itineraries. This guide will help you navigate the park with ease and enjoy the most exciting experiences. Don’t forget to check out the latest events and limited-time attractions!
Transportation Tips: How to Get to Universal Studios Japan
Transportation from Osaka City Center
The easiest way to get to Universal Studios Japan is by taking the Osaka Loop Line from the city center. At platform 2 (JR-015), transfer to Nishikujo Station. Once you arrive at Nishikujo, switch to the JR Yumesaki Line, which will take you directly to Universal City Station, eliminating the hassle of going downstairs mid-transfer.
Preparation: Essential Items Checklist
Ensure you have the following items prepared before heading to Universal Studios Japan:
- Tickets: Purchase in advance and link them to the USJ app.
- USJ App: Link your tickets, entry information, and travel companions.
- Water Bottle: Tap water in Japan is safe to drink, so bring your own bottle.
- Passport: Required for tax refund purposes.
- Power Bank: Keep your phone charged throughout the day.
- Mario Wristband: Rent one for ¥50 or buy for ¥200 in advance.
Recommended Attractions and Experiences
Universal Studios Japan boasts a range of must-visit attractions. Here’s our recommended list:
🔸 Single Rider Priority Attractions
- Mario Kart: A thrilling VR experience for those who love challenges.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: Fully immersive in the magical world.
- Minion Mayhem: Lighthearted and fun, perfect for families.
- Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Choose your own BGM; evening rides are even better.
- The Flying Dinosaur: A suspended roller coaster for thrill-seekers.
- Elmo’s Go-Go Skateboard
- Space Fantasy: The Ride
- Jurassic Park – The Ride
- Jaws
🔸 Highly Recommended Attractions
- Super Nintendo World: The world’s only Super Nintendo-themed area. Arrive early to grab a timed entry pass and experience VR Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Adventure.
- Mario Kart: A hat is provided, with a VR headset attached to enjoy the ride.
- Yoshi’s Adventure: Take the single rider line and ride through Nintendo on a mini Yoshi cart.
- Bowser’s Challenge (requires wristband): Unlock the final challenge by collecting 3 keys from mini-games.
- Mini-Games for Keys (requires wristband): Recommended games are the Bomb Puzzle and Turn It Up, both offering high success rates.
- Harry Potter Area: Similar to the one in Beijing, but with unique Japanese charm.
- Forbidden Journey: No timed entry required, so it’s best to prioritize this ride.
- Flight of the Hippogriff: A small, non-scary roller coaster.
- The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man (✨✨✨✨✨): Join the single rider line and enjoy this 3D adventure.
- Minion Mayhem (✨✨✨✨): The single rider line is often very short, allowing quick access.
- Hollywood Dream – The Ride (✨✨✨✨✨): Super fun with a customizable BGM, great for nighttime rides.
- Jurassic Park: The Flying Dinosaur (✨✨✨): Intense with a strong feeling of weightlessness, especially since it’s an inverted coaster.
- Jujutsu Kaisen 4D (✨✨✨): A 4D experience entirely in Japanese with interactive effects.
Limited-Time Attractions (2024-2025)
- Demon Slayer XR Ride: July 19, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
- NO LIMIT! Summer 2024: July 3, 2024 – September 1, 2024.
Suggested Itineraries
For a one-day visit to Universal Studios Japan, here are two itinerary suggestions:
- 7:30 AM Early Entry Route
- Head straight to Mario Kart; take the right-hand path and enter without a timed entry ticket.
- At 9 AM, collect a meal voucher for the restaurant on the basement level of the Mario area (you must stay in the area until your meal).
- Standard Entry Route
- Upon entering, use the app to book timed entry for both Nintendo and the Resident Evil attractions. Then, start with Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
- Queue for Mario Kart (single rider lane) ➡️ Yoshi’s Adventure ➡️ Mini-games for keys ➡️ Hidden Yoshi Adventure ➡️ Lunch at Mario-themed restaurant ➡️ Exit the Nintendo area after photos.
- Head for Minion Mayhem and other single-rider attractions like Jurassic Park.
- Enter the Resident Evil attraction (be mindful of your timed entry).
- Finish with Hollywood Dream – The Ride. After the 6 PM parade, the queues are shorter, and the night view is spectacular.
- Around 6 PM, visit the Harry Potter area for nighttime photos, especially if you haven’t been to the Beijing park yet.
Parades and Shows
- Float Parade: Keep track of the schedule. Although the IP themes are limited, it’s great for photo opportunities.
- Halloween Show: Held every evening from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with a spooky, eerie atmosphere.
- Universal Monsters Live Rock Show: Multiple daily performances, not to be missed.
Tax Refund Tips
Purchases over ¥5,000 are eligible for a tax refund at Universal Studios Japan. The refund desk is open from 2 PM to 7 PM. If your purchase exceeds ¥100,000, it’s best to queue for the refund during these hours.
