What You’ll Learn
- How to prepare in advance and move through the park efficiently on the day of your visit
- How to secure a timed-entry ticket for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and tackle popular attractions
- Recommended sample itineraries for families with children, couples, and first-time visitors
How to enjoy USJ with children or very young children, how active visitors can experience the attractions efficiently, and tips for fitting in Mario Kart and other attractions with long waits are all covered here.
How to Tour USJ
USJ (Universal Studios Japan) has so many attractions and shows that it is impossible to experience everything in one day. That is why many people return repeatedly with an Annual Pass.
In this guide, Happyell’s editor in chief, who visits USJ more than 50 times a year, explains how to enjoy Universal Studios Japan efficiently in a single day and shares all the key touring tips.
Preparing carefully before your USJ visit will make your day in the park much smoother, so be sure to read through to the end.
How to make the most of the summer nighttime event
It has been 50 years since JAWS was released in theaters in Japan.
This section introduces the limited-time event and new food items.
What is the new 2025 attraction, Minion Hacha-Mecha Mission?
Earn Rakuten Points when purchasing USJ tickets
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: Before Your Visit
Advance preparation is essential if you want to get the most out of USJ.
Here are the key points to cover before leaving on your trip.
◆How to Guarantee Admission to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
If you are traveling from far away and staying at a hotel, book a JTB hotel package that includes guaranteed admission to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
With an Area Admission Guarantee ticket, you can enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD without obtaining a same-day timed-entry ticket.
Universal Studios Japan Hotel and Tour Packages with Studio Pass
◆Download the Official App in Advance
Download the official USJ app.
You can check attraction wait times from anywhere, obtain timed-entry tickets, and view the park map.
Installing it only after arriving at Universal Studios Japan can cause problems later, such as slow downloads due to network limits, heavy data use, or faster battery drain.
It is best to set everything up at home or at your hotel before your visit.
App Benefit 1: Check Real-Time Wait Times and Show Schedules
With the official USJ app, you can view attraction wait times anywhere in the park.
Check attractions with shorter waits and the time of the next show before deciding where to go next for a more efficient day.
Many attractions are some distance apart, so it is a waste to walk all the way to an attraction only to decide not to ride because the wait is too long.
There are only two places in the park that display wait times, and one is in an area most guests rarely pass through, so they are not an efficient way to stay informed.
App Benefit 2: Obtain Area Timed-Entry Tickets and Yoyakunori Reservations
The SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area timed-entry ticket and free Yoyakunori reservations for attractions in Universal Wonderland can be issued through the app.
Yoyakunori lets you ride with priority at a designated time, so the experience usually takes less time than waiting in the regular line.
Previously, tickets could also be obtained from machines without the app, but machine distribution has ended. The app is now required.
During the Halloween season, timed-entry tickets for some Halloween Horror Nights attractions can also be obtained through the app.
Timed-entry tickets specify an experience time and normally offer three choices. It is convenient to claim one as soon as a time that suits you appears.
The following article explains in detail how to obtain timed-entry tickets and register admission tickets.
Arrive One Hour Before Opening: Three Reasons
To make the most of USJ, arrive before the park opens.
Without a special ticket, a useful target is 6:30 a.m. during extremely crowded periods, before 7:00 a.m. during busy periods, 7:30 a.m. during moderately busy periods, and 8:00 a.m. during quieter periods.
Benefit of Arriving Early 1
During extremely crowded periods, only evening or later timed-entry tickets for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD may remain by around 8:00 a.m.
Even during busy periods, only evening or later slots may remain by around 9:00 a.m., and by 10:00 a.m. only nighttime slots may be left.
Since Donkey Kong Country opened, timed-entry tickets have disappeared so quickly that even guests arriving at 6:00 a.m. may not enter until around 9:00 a.m. Plan accordingly.
Benefit of Arriving Early 2
Even attractions that normally have long waits are easier to experience first thing in the morning because their lines are shorter.
An XR Ride may take about 30 minutes just after opening, but waits can exceed two or three hours during the day.
Benefit of Arriving Early 3
The simplest advantage is having more time in the park.
A day may sound long, but at Universal Studios Japan, evening and nighttime arrive before you know it.
Even after nearly 200 visits, I still find myself reaching closing time before I realize it because the park is so much fun. Arriving as early as possible is best.
If you arrive shortly after opening, you may have to wait more than 30 minutes at the entrance gates.
Arriving at the suggested time should let you enter smoothly in about 10 minutes.
Check Opening and Closing Times
Checking USJ’s opening and closing times in advance helps you plan your day.
Hours vary by season and event.
However, the opening time shown on the official website is only a rough indication meaning the park will open no later than that time.
The park opens earlier than the published time on most days, and on one especially early day it opened 1 hour 45 minutes ahead of schedule.
See the following article for an estimate of the actual opening time.
In rare cases, previously announced opening or closing times are changed several days to two weeks in advance.
Check the official USJ website for the latest information.
Buy Admission Tickets in Advance
One step is especially important for touring USJ efficiently:
buy your ticket in advance.
You can also purchase one at the Lawson in Universal City, but it is best to buy through the official website by the day before your visit.
USJ Ticket Types and How to Buy Them
In addition to standard admission, USJ offers special tickets such as Express Passes that greatly reduce wait times, as well as VIP tours.
Some attractions and restaurants are available only as paid experiences.
Later in this article, we explain whether these options are worth buying.
Things to Check in Advance
Reviewing the following points before your visit will make it easier to plan your day.
Attraction Operating Status
At Universal Studios Japan, attractions usually close for inspection and maintenance about one to three times per year.
Some attractions also suspend normal operations when they are converted into limited-time experiences.
Closures are common outside peak periods, so check the USJ Official Website: Show and Attraction Closures before your visit.
Space Fantasy – The Ride, for example, is often operated as an XR Ride and rarely runs in its standard form, making the regular version something of a rare attraction.
Show and Parade Times
Showtimes are not fixed at the same hour every day.
They vary by visit date.
Parade start times also change occasionally.
The NO LIMIT! Parade – Discover U!!! Version, running from Wednesday, March 4, 2026, through Monday, January 11, 2027, starts at 2:00 p.m. During the summer period, it starts at 4:15 p.m. See the following article for details.
Schedules are announced one week in advance, so once your visit is a week away, check the USJ Official Website: Park Hours and Schedule .
Several shows may be held at the same time. If there are multiple shows you absolutely want to see, check their times in advance or you may have to miss one.
Areas and Attractions Requiring Timed-Entry Tickets
Some Halloween Horror Nights attractions, including Resident Evil, require a free timed-entry ticket.
Most Universal Wonderland attractions also offer free timed reservations called Yoyakunori.
Check the official app in advance.
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: What to Do Right After Opening—Get Your Timed-Entry Tickets
Once you enter USJ, your first priority should be obtaining timed-entry tickets. Some popular areas and attractions cannot be experienced at all without one, even if you are willing to wait.
Pattern 1: Get a Mario Area Timed-Entry Ticket or Aim for Open Entry
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is the most popular area at USJ. Securing a timed-entry ticket is your first mission.
On many days, timed entry becomes required about 20 minutes after the park opens.
As soon as everyone in your group has entered, use the app to obtain your tickets.
Tickets cannot be obtained for anyone who has not yet entered the park.
①Aim for Open Entry
If you can pass the temporary barricade near JAWS within 20 minutes of USJ opening, you can enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD without a timed-entry ticket.
When the park is quiet, open entry may last a little longer.
It takes about 5–7 minutes to walk from the entrance gates to the barricade near JAWS.
Entering through the gates also takes time.
If you can line up around 30th from the front, you may enter in about 5–10 minutes. Combined with the walk, you may just make it into the area without a ticket.
If open entry has ended, immediately obtain a timed-entry ticket in the app.
Refresh the app, and if “Timed-Entry Tickets Available” appears, you can claim one.
Pattern 2: Head to a Popular Attraction
Just after opening, the XR Ride can often be experienced with an actual wait of around 30 minutes, even when the posted wait is over one hour.
To enjoy both the XR Ride and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, go to the XR Ride first.
All belongings must be placed in the free coin lockers. Have a 100-yen coin, worth about US$0.63, ready. A change machine is available beside the lockers.
You may take your phone into the queue, so wear pants or a jacket with a pocket.
Distribution of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD timed-entry tickets will begin while you are in line, so claim one then.
If you wait until after the attraction, your entry time may be in the evening or later.
Sample Itineraries
Here are several sample itineraries tailored to different goals and preferences at USJ.
Recommended Touring Plan: Choose from the Calendar
This Month
Next Month
Two Months from Now
For Guests Who Want Donkey Kong Country and Other Attractions
This itinerary assumes arrival around 8:00 a.m. on a weekday or around 7:00 a.m. on a weekend, with departure in the evening.
1) After entering, immediately obtain a SUPER NINTENDO WORLD timed-entry ticket in the app.
A slot between about 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. will probably still be available.
2) Ride Hollywood Dream – The Ride or The Flying Dinosaur.
3) Experience Detective Conan 4-D Live, or head to The Flying Dinosaur or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
Around 9:00–10:00 a.m., waits for The Flying Dinosaur and Forbidden Journey tend to be shorter.
4) Eat lunch. Restaurants become very crowded after 11:30 a.m., so go as early as possible.
Booking a restaurant in advance is also recommended, although choices are limited.
5) If the timing works, Kuromi Live is also recommended.
It is near Conan.
6) Enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
Mine-Cart Madness is expected to have a 120–180 minute wait.
Even when the sign says 120 minutes, the actual experience may take about 90 minutes.
If you do not need to see the temple interior along the way, the Single Rider line can also reduce your wait slightly.
7) Experience Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Adventure.
8) If the timing works, see WaterWorld, immediately beside the SUPER NINTENDO WORLD exit.
9) Experience JAWS.
10) Experience Hollywood Dream – The Ride.
11) Buy souvenirs.
For Guests Who Want an Active Day
This plan is recommended for guests who want an active day in the park.
Obtain an Area Timed-Entry Ticket First Thing
First, secure a SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area timed-entry ticket first thing in the morning.
Attractions to Visit in the Morning
Wait times are relatively short in the morning.
Use this time for attractions that normally have long lines.
1) Hollywood Dream – The Ride
2) The Flying Dinosaur
3) Jurassic Park – The Ride
Riding Hollywood Dream first thing in the morning brings excitement even while you wait. The exhilarating ride should give your fun-filled day a great start.
Recommended Lunch Spots
Choose a restaurant with a short wait for lunch. Around 11:00 a.m., seats are usually still available and service is smoother.
Because you started early, you will probably be hungry even if you eat lunch early.
1) Discovery Restaurant
A dinosaur-themed restaurant. In summer it becomes a One Piece restaurant and gets crowded, so avoid noon through the 1:00 p.m. hour.
2) Mel’s Drive-In
Takeout is available, so even when the restaurant is full, you can eat on a bench by the lagoon or rose garden when the weather is good.
3) Amity Landing Restaurant
The menu includes shark meat.
Attractions and Shows for Early Afternoon Through Evening
Many attraction waits grow long in the afternoon.
Shows such as the Summer Splash Parade, available only in summer, WaterWorld, and the Universal Live Rock and Roll Show are recommended.
Attractions for Evening and Night
The Harry Potter area is recommended from evening onward. The Wizarding World feels especially atmospheric at night.
Flight of the Hippogriff, which has long waits during the day, also becomes easier to ride.
The Flying Dinosaur’s wait becomes much shorter.
This is probably because the ride feels scarier at night and is located at the far end of USJ, so fewer people choose it.
Relaxed Family Plan
This route is designed for families visiting with elementary-school-age children and others.
Children at least 92 cm tall can ride many attractions with an accompanying adult.
Obtain an Area Timed-Entry Ticket Immediately After Entering
As soon as you enter, secure a SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area timed-entry ticket.
If you enter USJ at a relaxed pace with very young children, the available time will probably be in the afternoon or evening.
Obtain a Yoyakunori Reservation Immediately After Entering
Yoyakunori is a free timed reservation.
Obtain one as early as possible after entering USJ.
1) The Flying Snoopy
2) Snoopy’s Flying Ace Adventure
3) Freeze Ray Sliders
Children’s Attractions: Universal Wonderland
Universal Wonderland offers Snoopy and Hello Kitty attractions.
It is an area designed for children to enjoy.
Children’s Attractions: Minion Park
Freeze Ray Sliders in Minion Park is a four-person ride.
A family of up to four can ride together.
The vehicles move unpredictably.
Surrounded by Minions, the entire setting is fun.
There is also a little thrill, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
Universal Wonderland Snoopy and Hello Kitty Shows
Universal Wonderland holds shows about five times a day in which Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and their friends dance, followed by a commemorative photo opportunity.
Watch at the location featuring your favorite character.
Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Lucy: in front of The Flying Snoopy
Hello Kitty and Dear Daniel: in front of Hello Kitty’s Ribbon Collection
See the following article for the route, photos, and recommended items from an actual visit with children ages three and five.
Pattern 3: How to Enjoy a Rainy Day
Rain on your long-awaited USJ day does not have to ruin the fun. Here are attractions and shows you can still enjoy.
Indoor Attractions and Shows
Indoor attractions are recommended on rainy days.
However, if rain begins in the afternoon, their wait times tend to grow longer.
1) Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
2) XR Ride
3) Mario Kart
4) Sing on Tour
5) Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
6) Detective Conan Theater
7) Universal Live Rock and Roll Show
Outdoor attractions may continue operating in light rain when winds are weak.
Their waits can be very short, so they may be worth experiencing if the rain is only slight.
Rainy-Day-Only Greetings
Outdoor shows are not held in the rain.
Depending on the show, you may instead be able to take a commemorative photo with performers or characters.
Greeting locations differ from the usual show locations.
Kuromi Live: under the canopy
Power of Pop: Mel’s Drive-In
Street Side Symphony: under the roof a little to the right of the regular venue
NO LIMIT! Parade: under the canopy; not held on crowded days
Recommended Plan for Couples in Their 20s
A USJ date can be an active day packed with attractions, but there are romantic ways to enjoy the park too.
A Romantic Restaurant
Park Side Grille is a full-service restaurant serving Angus beef and, depending on the season, prix-fixe meals.
Its calm atmosphere, unlike what you might expect in a theme park, and polished hospitality make it ideal for a date.
Advance reservations and same-day virtual queue registration in front of the restaurant can reduce your wait.
Best Attractions for a Date
Hollywood Dream – The Ride is especially popular with couples.
This roller coaster climbs high while riders listen to upbeat music.
The suspension-bridge effect often discussed in psychology might even bring the two of you closer.
The classic JAWS attraction is also recommended.
You can sit together in a boat and enjoy an ocean adventure featuring a shark.
Visit Photo Spots and Capture Memories
The park has many photogenic locations.
Take pictures with characters and against beautiful scenery to preserve wonderful memories.
See the following article for photogenic spots in the New York and San Francisco areas.
See this article for other areas.
This article introduces movie-set props and retro items in the New York area.
Schedule Idea: First Visit or First Visit in a While
The published opening time is 8:00 a.m. This schedule assumes a day when opening is moved up to 7:15 a.m. and accounts for walking time and estimated waits.
Press the black button to show or hide the schedule.
2) 7:30 a.m. Enter the park
3) 7:31 a.m. Use the app to obtain a Mario Area timed-entry ticket.
Choose the earliest available time.
4) If there is time before your timed entry, ride one of the following: Hollywood Dream – The Ride, The Flying Dinosaur, Space Fantasy, or JAWS.
5) Enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD with the timed-entry ticket.
6) Make a restaurant reservation for Kinopio’s Cafe. During the day, entry is generally available about two hours after reserving.
7) If Mario Kart has a wait of one hour or less, experience it first. Otherwise, ride Yoshi’s Adventure.
8) Experience Mario Kart.
9) Have lunch at Kinopio’s Cafe.
10) Experience Mine-Cart Madness.
11) Try the drums and two to six Key Challenges.
12) If the timing works, go to WaterWorld.
13) Experience JAWS.
14) Go to the Harry Potter area.
15) If the timing works, watch the Magical Creatures show.
16) Visit Ollivanders.
17) Experience Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
18) Ride Flight of the Hippogriff.
19) Experience The Flying Dinosaur.
20) Go to the souvenir shops.
21) Leave the park.
This route includes 11 attractions, including Donkey Kong, plus Key Challenges and shows.
Schedule Idea: Families with Preschool and Elementary-School Children
The published opening time is 8:00 a.m. This schedule assumes a day when opening is moved up to 7:15 a.m. and accounts for walking time and estimated waits.
Press the black button to show or hide the schedule.
7:15 a.m. Park opens
7:30 a.m. Enter the park
7:31 a.m. Obtain a Mario Area timed-entry ticket in the app.
Choose the earliest available time.
7:35 a.m. Universal Wonderland: The Flying Snoopy (estimated wait: 15–30 minutes)
Obtain a Yoyakunori reservation while waiting.
7:50–8:05 a.m. Experience The Flying Snoopy
8:15–8:45 a.m. Enter Mario Area with the timed-entry ticket.
8:20–8:50 a.m. Head to Bowser’s Castle and Mario Kart (estimated wait: 30–60 minutes)
8:50–9:50 a.m. Experience Mario Kart
9:00–10:00 a.m. Check the available reservation times for Kinopio’s Cafe.
Claim one if it matches the time you want to eat. If it is too early, return and check again later.
9:05–10:05 a.m. Yoshi’s Adventure (estimated wait: 45–90 minutes)
9:50–11:35 a.m. Experience Yoshi’s Adventure
9:55–11:40 a.m. Complete two to six Key Challenges
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Enter Kinopio’s Cafe and have lunch
12:15–1:15 p.m. Finish lunch
12:20–1:20 p.m. Take commemorative photos with Mario and Luigi and buy souvenirs in Mario Area
1:00–1:30 p.m. Move to the viewing area for the NO LIMIT! Summer Parade
2:00 p.m. Enjoy the parade
2:30–3:00 p.m. Enjoy the attraction reserved through Yoyakunori
3:00–3:30 p.m. Enjoy Curious George (estimated wait: 10–20 minutes)
3:30–4:00 p.m. Line up for SING (estimated wait: 10–20 minutes)
3:40–4:10 p.m. Experience SING
4:10–4:40 p.m. Shrek 4-D (My Hero Academia 4-D) (estimated wait: 20–40 minutes)
4:40–5:10 p.m. Experience the 4-D show
5:00–5:30 p.m. Buy souvenirs and leave the park
This route includes seven attractions plus Key Challenges, the parade, and an evening departure.
Schedule Idea: Touring Plan for Arrival Around 9:00 a.m.
This route is recommended for guests who eat breakfast at the hotel and cannot arrive very early.
Press the black button to show or hide the schedule.
9:00 a.m. Arrive
9:30 a.m. Enter the park
9:31 a.m. Obtain a Mario Area timed-entry ticket in the app.
The available slot may be between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m.
9:40 a.m. Go to the Harry Potter area
9:55 a.m. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (estimated wait: 60–100 minutes)
10:55–11:35 a.m. Experience Harry Potter
After leaving the attraction or shop, use the restroom on the left.
11:10–11:50 a.m. Ollivanders (estimated wait: 10–15 minutes)
11:25 a.m.–12:05 p.m. Experience Ollivanders
11:45 a.m.–12:25 p.m. Head to lunch
12:00–12:40 p.m. Eat lunch
12:30–12:40 p.m. JAWS if time allows; estimated wait: 30–60 minutes
1:10–1:45 p.m. Move to the NO LIMIT! Parade viewing area
2:00 p.m. Enjoy the parade
Parade period: Wednesday, March 4, 2026–Monday, January 11, 2027
2:20–2:30 p.m. Shrek 4-D (Chainsaw Man) estimated wait: 15–30 minutes
2:35–3:00 p.m. Experience the 4-D show; duration: 20 minutes
3:00–3:30 p.m. Line up for Hollywood Dream – The Ride (estimated wait: 60–100 minutes)
4:00–5:00 p.m. Experience Hollywood Dream – The Ride
5:00–8:00 p.m. Enter Mario Area with the timed-entry ticket
If you enter by 6:00 p.m. when the park closes at 8:30 p.m.
If you enter by 7:30 p.m. when the park closes at 10:00 p.m.
5:10–7:30 p.m. Yoshi’s Adventure (estimated wait: 50–70 minutes)
6:10–8:30 p.m. Experience Yoshi’s Adventure
6:20–8:40 p.m. Head to Bowser’s Castle; estimated wait: 70–120 minutes
8:20–9:50 p.m. Experience Mario Kart
Complete Key Challenges or shop for souvenirs until closing
10:00 p.m. Park closes
If you enter after 6:00 p.m. when the park closes at 8:30 p.m.
If you enter after 7:30 p.m. when the park closes at 10:00 p.m.
6:10–9:00 p.m. Head to Bowser’s Castle and Mario Kart (estimated wait: 60–120 minutes)
8:10–9:55 p.m. Experience Mario Kart
Complete Key Challenges or shop for souvenirs until closing
If none of the above applies:
You may be able to experience only Yoshi’s Adventure and Key Challenges,
or possibly only the Key Challenges.
This route includes seven attractions plus Key Challenges and the parade.
Recommended Attractions and Shows
Here is a carefully selected list of attractions and shows you should not miss at USJ.
New Attractions
New attractions often use the latest technology, feature creative effects, and generate plenty of buzz.
Here are the new attractions we recommend.
Mario Kart
This attraction uses cutting-edge technology to immerse guests in the world of Nintendo games inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
It debuted in 2021.
Although the attraction is in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a timed-entry ticket is often required to enter the area.
On early-distribution days, all tickets may be gone before 9:00 a.m.
See the following article for how to obtain a timed-entry ticket or guaranteed admission.
Detective Conan Theater
This show attraction brings Kaito Kid, Ran Mouri, and Sonoko Suzuki to life.
Detective Conan fans should definitely experience it.
The attraction opened in March 2024.
Its large capacity also helps keep waits relatively short.
Sing on Tour
This theater show feels like watching a performance scene from the movie SING right in front of you.
In the film, theater manager Buster Moon, a koala, and performers such as the shy elephant Meena overcome numerous setbacks to put on a show.
USJ’s Sing on Tour is set on the opening day of the show that follows that story.
Recommended highlight: In the first room, a video shows the same kind of hectic backstage action seen in SING. Even guests unfamiliar with the movie can understand the general atmosphere. SING fans will find it especially exciting.
After moving to the main theater, you will see a live show performed by real entertainers. Enjoy live vocals of famous songs featured in SING.
The energetic atmosphere and USJ-specific staging make the show enjoyable for children and adults alike.
Curious George
A children’s attraction featuring the popular animated character Curious George.
Animated footage and the real-world stage blend together, creating a show filled with excitement and laughter that makes George feel truly present.
The show also includes plenty of magic-show elements, giving adults a whimsical world to enjoy.
Popular Thrill Rides
In recent years, some people may think of USJ primarily as a theme park for thrill rides.
Among Japanese amusement and theme parks, it offers a strong lineup of thrill attractions alongside Fuji-Q Highland and Nagashima Spa Land.
Guests who are not comfortable with scary rides can scream and let off steam.
Thrill seekers will find attractions that deliver plenty of excitement.
The Flying Dinosaur
This is USJ’s most terrifying attraction.
It is a relatively recent ride, having opened in 2016.
Experience powerful centrifugal force, as if a dinosaur were whipping you around, and the thrill of plunging from a great height.
The height difference is 37.8 meters, and the 1,124-meter course is the world’s longest flying-coaster track.
How Scary Is The Flying Dinosaur? Five Ways to Make It Less Frightening
Before the ride starts, the sudden moment when your body rotates into a horizontal position is startling. Just after dispatch, the train climbs slowly to its highest point, and seeing the ground below can feel terrifying—or fun if you wave to the people walking underneath. The powerful centrifugal force and sensation of being swung around immediately after the start are intense.
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
This roller coaster lets each rider select a favorite song and enjoy a trip through the sky while listening to music.
It emphasizes airtime and delivers an exhilarating feeling.
Choosing the same song as the person riding with you may be part of the fun because you can get excited to the same rhythm.
Limited-time collaboration songs and stories are another attraction.
Popular Attractions
Here are popular attractions unique to a movie theme park.
Some can be experienced only at USJ in Japan.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
This is the main attraction in the Harry Potter area.
Enter Hogwarts Castle, fly with Harry on a magical broomstick, and journey through the world of Harry Potter with Hermione, Ron, and others.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
This attraction debuted in 2017. Join the Minions on a tour of Gru’s laboratory.
The ride moves in sync with images on an enormous screen, creating the feeling that you have entered the movie and are adventuring with the Minions.
Before boarding, there is also an entertaining story segment featuring Gru and his three daughters.
How to Enter the Harry Potter Area
During busy periods, entry to the Harry Potter area requires either an area timed-entry ticket or a guaranteed admission ticket.
Recently, however, a timed-entry ticket is rarely needed during the day.
When distribution begins, take admission tickets for everyone in your group to a timed-entry ticket machine.
Guests among the first to receive tickets can usually obtain a slot about one hour later.
Timed-entry ticket machine location: near the rose garden by Mel’s Drive-In
Limited-Time Attractions
USJ almost always offers attractions available only for a limited period, including anime and game collaborations and horror attractions.
These collaborations feature the most talked-about anime, games, television content, and properties expected to break out this year, so they are well worth experiencing.
The same attraction almost never returns the following year after its run ends, so take advantage of the chance to enjoy it now.
Even if you know nothing about the original anime or game, pre-show explanations, videos, and the attraction’s story provide a simple introduction to its world.
Best Times for Lunch
Park restaurants are extremely crowded from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Finding no available seats is frustrating, and waiting for a table to open can be stressful.
Whenever possible, eat lunch by 11:30 a.m. or after 2:00 p.m.
Around 4:00 p.m., restaurants that serve cafe items may also be crowded.
Keep this in mind.
This is especially common during Halloween Horror Nights and Christmas events, when tired guests rest before the evening.
At Kinopio’s Cafe in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, the wait can reach 30–60 minutes shortly after 11:00 a.m.
After 2:30 p.m. is recommended.
Reserve a Restaurant
At this restaurant, you can reserve a time to join the priority waiting line.
If you arrive at the entrance within one hour of your reserved time, you will be seated as soon as a table becomes available.
Adults may also enjoy beer or wine here.
• Park Side Grille, a steak restaurant
• Azzurra di Capri, serving pasta and pizza
• SAIDO, an upscale Japanese restaurant
Reservations open at 11:00 a.m. one month before your visit.
They are available until midnight on the day before.
SAIDO and Lombard’s Landing often become collaboration restaurants and may not accept reservations.
The following article summarizes recommended restaurants.
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: Attractions
Here are strategies for enjoying USJ attractions efficiently. Reduce waits and experience more rides.
Five Overlooked Times When Attraction Waits Are Short
To experience many attractions, target less crowded times.
This is especially effective for attractions with long waits.
1st: One hour before closing
2nd: Immediately after opening
3rd: After 6:00 p.m.
4th: From about 15 minutes before to 15 minutes after a parade begins
5th: Around noon, especially for rides with strong centrifugal force
②Save Time with an Express Pass
An Express Pass can greatly reduce attraction wait times.
It must be purchased separately from admission, and many Express Pass options are expensive.
However, it is recommended for guests traveling from far away who may not be able to return to USJ soon.
On especially crowded days, a first-time visitor without an Express Pass may experience only four or five attractions, which could reduce overall satisfaction.
Express Pass Types and How to Buy Them
Express Pass packages are available for four or seven attractions.
More expensive tickets covering a larger number of attractions are also offered.
Express Passes are often sold out on the day of a visit.
Once your USJ date is set, buy as early as possible.
Recommended Ways to Use an Express Pass
Express Passes are most effective for popular attractions with especially long waits.
Buy a pass that includes the attractions you want.
Popular options sell out quickly.
1) Mine-Cart Madness in Donkey Kong Country
2) Mario Kart
3) XR Ride
③You Can Conquer USJ Without an Express Pass
Even without an Express Pass, you can have a full and enjoyable day by touring efficiently.
Tips for an Efficient Route
Target attractions with long waits immediately after opening or shortly before closing.
During the day, visit attractions with shorter waits first.
Check real-time wait times in the official app before heading to the next attraction.
It is best to decide what to do next while you are already waiting in a queue or at another time when you cannot do anything else.
Use the Single Rider Line
Single Rider is a service offered on popular attractions designed for two or more riders.
When one seat is left open, a single guest can fill it.
Because you cannot ride together with friends, family, or a partner, it is best for guests whose top priority is experiencing the attraction or who want to ride repeatedly.
Use it when you are comfortable riding separately from your group.
Many guests use Single Rider for Mario Kart because it is an attraction they want to experience more than once.
The regular queue has a long route to the loading area, while Single Rider reaches the boarding area quickly, which is another major advantage.
USJ Areas
With the opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in 2021, USJ grew to 10 areas.
For first-time visitors, the following areas are the easiest to recognize as distinct sections of the park.
- SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, commonly called the Harry Potter area
- Universal Wonderland
- Jurassic Park
- WaterWorld
- Minion Park
The areas above have features such as archways at their entrances, signs, or a dramatic change in atmosphere, so you can tell you have entered a different area without paying special attention.
Donkey Kong Country is an area within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
By contrast, the following areas do not have clear entrance boundaries and have many ways in and out, so it may be hard to notice when you have entered a different area.
Use the park map to reach the attractions, shops, and photo spots you want to visit.
- Hollywood Area
- New York Area
- San Francisco Area
- Amity Village
Differences from Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has a timed-entry ticket used solely to enter the area.
At Fantasy Springs, obtaining a reservation for an attraction allows entry to the area. At USJ, after entering the area, guests join the regular attraction lines unless they have an Express Pass or similar option.
USJ Map
Some attraction entrances are difficult to find, so check their locations in the official app’s park map or in this article before you go to reduce the chance of getting lost.
The Hollywood Area near the park entrance has many roads and similar-looking buildings. Taking one wrong street can make it hard to find your intended attraction.
Harry Potter Area
The Harry Potter area offers four main attraction experiences:
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a ride inside Hogwarts Castle
• Flight of the Hippogriff, featuring Hippogriff flight training and a mild roller-coaster experience
• Ollivanders
• Wand Magic
You can also see Hagrid’s hut while waiting in line.
If the Wandkeeper selects you, you can experience being chosen by a wand and becoming a wizard.
Wand Magic is an interactive magical experience available only to guests who purchase a magic wand.
Use the wand to create fire, water, wind, and snow effects.
Magic is activated through the correct spell and wand movement.
You can learn them in two ways:
• The map included in the wand box
• Instructions written on the ground at each magic spot
A magic instructor may also be available to guide you.
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: Restaurants and Food
Here are tips for enjoying meals at USJ while avoiding crowds and dining more comfortably.
①Avoid Peak Meal Times
The key to a more relaxed meal is avoiding the busiest periods.
An early lunch around 11:00 a.m., a late lunch from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., or a late dinner after 7:00 p.m. can help you avoid crowds and eat at a comfortable pace.
Many restaurants close in the evening, depending on the location, so check operating hours in advance.
This is especially important in quieter seasons.
During Halloween Horror Nights and summer nighttime events, many guests use restaurants for breaks around 4:00–5:00 p.m., making that period crowded.
②Enjoy Food on the Go
Along the street between Sing on Tour and Minion Park, there are three places, including food trucks, where you can buy takeout food.
The food is affordable and tasty.
You can sit on benches overlooking the lagoon nearby, which makes this a convenient option.
Depending on the season, collaboration menus may also be available.
See the food menu here.
Churritos are sold throughout the park.
Collaborative versions featuring anime series or Pokémon are often available.
Popular Takeout Foods and Where to Find Them
The turkey leg in Jurassic Park is extremely popular, with lines forming from lunchtime through the evening.
You can find it at food carts between JAWS and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and inside Jurassic Park.
The sweets shop at the entrance to Minion Park is also popular.
For drinks, Butterbeer in the Harry Potter area is another favorite.
③For a Relaxed Meal, Use Priority Seating or a Virtual Queue
Use restaurant priority reservations or a virtual queue if you want to enjoy your meal without rushing.
1) Park Side Grille
2) Azzurra di Capri
3) SAIDO, except during the Demon Slayer restaurant period
USJ Official: Reserve a Restaurant Here
1) Apply from one month before your visit until the day before, at least 24 hours before your intended dining time.
2) Select the number of guests, date, and time.
3) You can also add options such as a cake.
4) On the day, go to the restaurant at the appointed time.
1) Go to the restaurant after 9:00 a.m.
2) Enter the number of guests and your phone number on the tablet.
3) You will receive an automated phone call as your turn approaches.
4) Go to the restaurant within 30 minutes.
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: Souvenirs and Merchandise
Choosing souvenirs is another enjoyable part of a USJ visit. Here are tips for buying them efficiently.
①General Souvenirs Are Available Near the Entrance
USJ has two large souvenir shops near the park entrance.
They carry items you may want as soon as you enter, such as character hats, headbands, and clothing, as well as easy-to-buy gifts including snacks, food, and stationery.
Map location 1: Many classic USJ items featuring Mario, Donkey Kong, Sesame Street, and others, plus T-shirts and collaboration merchandise
Map location 2: Many Harry Potter, Minion, and Mario snacks and foods, plus JAWS and collaboration merchandise
Map location 3: Headbands and character hats featuring standard characters
More elaborate merchandise aimed at dedicated fans is often unavailable near the entrance.
How to Buy Souvenirs Efficiently
Some popular collaboration items sell out during the morning.
Buy them first after entering USJ.
For other merchandise, shopping by the evening helps you avoid crowds.
The best time to buy souvenirs is from noon to around 4:00 p.m., when stores are relatively quiet.
As closing approaches, shops become crowded, merchandise is harder to browse, and long checkout lines form.
Buy items early and place them in a coin locker or carry them with you. Then, while other guests shop before closing, you can enjoy attractions whose wait times have dropped.
See the following article for the latest merchandise news and recommended items.
Make Use of Coin Lockers
Carrying heavy baggage around the park is tiring, so use coin lockers wisely.
Lockers are available near the entrance and in Universal Wonderland.
Carry only what you need and store unnecessary items in a locker for a more comfortable day.
Except for the lockers in Universal Wonderland, opening a locker ends that use, and you must pay again to store items a second time.
Universal CityWalk Osaka USJ Merchandise Shops
Universal CityWalk Osaka is located outside USJ.
It also has USJ merchandise shops.
They mainly carry character hats, shirts, clothing, and headbands.
If you stayed nearby the night before or have an admission ticket valid after 3:00 p.m., such as a Twilight Pass or Night Pass, shopping before entering can save time.
USJ Strategy and Touring Guide: Practical Information
Here are additional tips for enjoying USJ more comfortably.
①Use the Portable Battery Rental Service
Use the portable battery rental service if your smartphone is running low on power in the park.
Rental batteries are available near park restrooms and the coin lockers by the entrance.
They include charging cables with three connector types.
Registration in a dedicated app is required. Payment is by credit card, so children cannot use the service on their own.
Rates are relatively high, so be cautious about long rentals.
②Birthday Guests Can Receive a Birthday Sticker
USJ gives out birthday stickers to help guests celebrate.
Ask a crew member near the entrance for a birthday sticker.
When you wear it, characters may celebrate with you, and crew members may offer special birthday greetings.
③Driving to USJ? Check Cheaper Nearby Parking
If you plan to reach USJ before opening, nearby parking lots are recommended over the official USJ parking lot.
The official lot opens 90 minutes before the published park opening time.
USJ sometimes opens more than 90 minutes before the published time, so the park may already be open when the official lot begins admitting cars.
Many nearby lots, including Times locations, allow entry and exit 24 hours a day.
Their parking fees can also be lower than the official USJ lot.
See locations and prices here.
Recommended and Prohibited Items
Here are recommended items to bring to USJ and items that cannot be brought into the park.
Recommended Items
• Comfortable walking shoes
Athletic shoes are ideal; you may walk more than 10,000 steps in a day.
• A hat, for protection from heat or cold
• One plastic beverage bottle of up to 500 ml, no cans, or a reusable bottle, to help prevent heat illness
• A phone charger or portable battery, especially if you take many photos; rentals are also available
• A handheld fan in summer
• A cooling towel in summer
• Disposable hand warmers in winter
• A thick picnic sheet
In summer, heat from the asphalt can reach you, and in winter, cold from the ground can transfer through the sheet. Bring a well-insulated picnic sheet or one seat cushion per person.
For families with small children, the following article explains a carefully planned route that keeps children comfortable and recommended items for a family visit.
Items You Cannot Bring Into the Park
• Drinks in cans or glass bottles
• Rice balls, convenience-store food, and takeout food
• Selfie sticks
• Tripods
Guests sometimes bring these without realizing they are prohibited and then cannot pass bag inspection until they discard them or store them in a coin locker.
After waiting a long time at security, being stopped for a prohibited item can be especially disappointing, so check carefully.
• Carry-on cases, including suitcases, trunks, similarly large bags, and carts used to transport items
• Food, including boxed meals
Baby food and snacks for small children are allowed.
• Beverages in glass bottles or cans and alcoholic drinks
One reusable bottle or one plastic beverage bottle of up to 500 ml per person is allowed.
• Camera monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks
Some guests buy McDonald’s before entering or try to bring in 1-liter or 2-liter plastic bottles and are turned away. Plan accordingly.
Summary: How to Tour Universal Studios Japan
2. Install the official USJ app before your visit
3. Eat lunch at a quieter time or make a reservation
4. Shop for souvenirs at a quieter time
Have an amazing and memorable day.
Exchange rate used in this article: US$1 = ¥160.
USJ Touring Plan App
A free web app that suggests a USJ schedule based on your preferences.
No registration required.
