Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan (USJ), located in Osaka, is one of six Universal Studios theme parks worldwide. It was the first to open outside the United States in 20011. The park is the second most visited amusement park in Japan. It offers various amusement rides and shows based on popular movies.

Recommended sightseeing time: 1 day Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka

Universal Studios Japan Ticket Prices & Express Passes

Recommended Hotels Near Universal Studios Japan

  • Hotel Universal Port

    Within a 5-minute walk of Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Takoyaki Museum

  • The Park Front Hotel

    Steps from Universal CityWalk Osaka and 3 minutes by foot from Universal Studios Japan

  • Hotel Kintetsu Universal City

    Steps from Universal CityWalk Osaka and 3 minutes by foot from Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan Reviews

4.7/5
11568 reviews
5/5
I went with my nephew and it was so much fun and he loved it so much that I had a happy trip to Japan.
review picture
5/5
December 2025 is very cold and there are a lot of people.
review picture
5/5
December 2025 is very cold.
review picture
5/5
So all of these places are worth visiting.
review picture
5/5
Queuing starts early so best to book online with platforms like trip for easy tickets and entry.
review picture

Universal Studios Japan

Experience amazing movie worlds at Universal Studios Japan. Ride thrilling USJ attractions, see spectacular shows, and meet beloved characters from franchises like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. USJ is perfect for movie fans, thrill-seekers, and families.

About Universal Studios Japan - Opening Hours & Address

Universal Studios Japan, often abbreviated as USJ, is one of the four Universal Studios theme parks. It was the first Universal Studios theme park to open in Asia, and it has more than 10 million visitors every year.

  1. Standard Hours (13.0 hrs): 08:30-21:30 is the most common schedule.
  2. Extended Hours (14.0 hrs): 08:00-22:00 occurs frequently (especially in Aug, early Sep & Oct).
  3. Reduced Hours: Shorter days include 09:00-20:00 (11.0 hrs), 09:00-19:00 (10.0 hrs early Sep), 08:30-18:30 (10.0 hrs Sep 4), and 09:30-21:30 (12.0 hrs Jul 27).
  4. Peak Season: August & October have the highest concentration of Extended Hours days.

However, the openning hours can vary depending on the season and special events, so it's recommended to check the official website for the most accurate information.

USJ Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan

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How to go to Universal Studios Japan

How to go to Universal Studios Japan

Source from Universal Studios Japan Official

Transportation to Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka, can vary depending on where you are coming from. Here are some common ways to get there:

1. Train:

From Osaka Station:

  • Route: Take the JR Yumesaki Line (also known as JR Sakurajima Line) directly to Universal-City Station. It's about a 5-minute walk from there to Universal Studios Japan.
  • Cost: approximately $1.35 USD
  • Travel Time: About 10-15 minutes

From Kyoto Station:

  • Route: Take the JR Kyoto Line to Osaka Station, then transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal-City Station.
  • Cost: approximately $6 USD
  • Travel Time: About 45-60 minutes

2. Bus:

From Kansai International Airport:

  • Route: There are direct airport limousine buses to Universal Studios Japan.
  • Cost: approximately $11.50 USD
  • Travel Time: About 70 minutes
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How to go to Universal Studios Japan

Source: USJ official

3. Taxi:

Taxis are available throughout Osaka and can take you directly to Universal Studios Japan. They are more expensive than public transportation.

  • Cost: Varies greatly depending on your starting point; from Osaka Station, it could be around $18.50-$26 USD.
  • Travel Time: Depends on traffic; from Osaka Station, it could be around 15-30 minutes

4. Ferry:

  • Route: The Captain Line ferry service connects Universal Studios Japan with the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) in the Osaka Bay area.
  • Cost: approximately $6 USD for a one-way ticke
  • Travel Time: About 10 minutes

*Please note that all the costs are approximate and can fluctuate based on exchange rates, travel time, and other factors.

How to go to Universal Studios Japan

Source: USJ official

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Best time to go to Universal Studios Japan

Best time to go to Universal Studios Japan

The best time to visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka depends on several factors, including weather, crowd levels, and special events. Here are some considerations to help you decide when to go:

Season

Weather

Crowd Level

Special Note

Spring (March to May)

Mild and warm

Moderate to high

One of the best times to visit as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Fall (September to November)

Mild weather

Moderate

Another great time with mild weather and the chance to see the autumn leaves.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid

High

A popular time for families to visit due to school vacations.

Winter (December to February)

Cold, but generally dry

Relatively low

Christmas events and New Year holiday create a festive atmosphere.

Ultimately, the best time for you will depend on your preferences for weather, crowd tolerance, and interest in special events.

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What to Eat at Universal Studios Japan

What to eat at Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan offers diverse dining options that cater to a wide range of tastes. Here are several popular restaurants within the park:

Popular restaurants

Themed Land

Introduction

Finnegan's Bar & Grill

New York

Serves hearty meals such as fish and chips, beef stew, and their signature Finnegan's Burger.

The Three Broomsticks

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Enjoys British pub fare like Fish & Chips, Shepherd's Pie, and the Great Feast Platter. Don't forget to try a Butterbeer.

Discovery Restaurant

Jurassic Park

Offers a wide selection of dishes, including roasted chicken, pasta, and a variety of salads.

Snoopy's Backlot Café

Universal Wonderland

Serves up Western-style food such as rotisserie chicken, pizza, and Snoopy-shaped curry rice.

SAIDO

San Francisco

This is a place to enjoy Japanese-style dishes, including ramen, udon, and tempura.

Mel's Drive-In

Hollywood

Burgers, fries, and milkshakes are the staples here. The restaurant is known for its retro 50s ambiance and classic American diner fare.

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Things to do at Universal Studios Japan

Things to do at Universal Studios Japan

Source from Universal Studios Japan Official

Universal Studios Japan is divided into 10 themed lands, each offering a unique atmosphere, attractions, shows, shops, and dining options. Here's an overview of the things you can do in each land:

1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Visit Hogwarts Castle, explore Hogsmeade, and enjoy thrilling rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Don't forget to try a Butterbeer!

2. Minion Park: This is the world's largest Minion-themed area where you can enjoy a 3D ride, meet and greet with Minions, and shop for Minion merchandise.

3. Jurassic Park: Experience the thrilling Jurassic Park – The Ride, explore the jungle, and see dinosaurs up close.

4. Waterworld: Watch a live-action stunt show based on the film Waterworld, featuring water explosions and thrilling stunts.

5. Jaws: Take a boat ride and come face-to-face with the infamous great white shark from the Jaws movie.

6. Universal Wonderland: Perfect for families with young children, this area features characters from Sesame Street, Hello Kitty, and Snoopy. Enjoy rides, shows, and character meet and greets.

7. Amity Village: Experience the terror of Jaws on a thrilling boat ride, and enjoy other attractions based on the classic film.

8. Hollywood: Walk down the famous Hollywood Boulevard, enjoy live entertainment, and meet some of your favorite characters.

9. San Francisco: Explore this area that recreates the charm of San Francisco. Don't miss the Backdraft attraction, a thrilling experience based on the movie.

10. New York: Experience the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man - The Ride 4K3D, and enjoy the atmosphere of New York with its classic landmarks.

USJ Latest Reviews
4.7/5
11568 reviews
5/5
I went with my nephew and it was so much fun and he loved it so much that I had a happy trip to Japan.
review picture
5/5
December 2025 is very cold and there are a lot of people.
review picture
5/5
December 2025 is very cold.
review picture
5/5
So all of these places are worth visiting.
review picture
5/5
Queuing starts early so best to book online with platforms like trip for easy tickets and entry.
review picture

Universal Studios Japan Map

Universal Studios Japan Map

Source from Universal Studios Japan Official

As the map shown above, Universal Studios Japan is divided into 10 themed lands. Travelers can also find playlands, restaurants, shops, and other services such as guest services, ATM aervice, family service, and currency exchange service on the map.

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Universal Studios Japan Attractions

Universal Studios Japan is one of the most popular theme parks in Japan and features a wide range of attractions and entertainment based on movies produced by Universal Pictures, as well as other notable franchises. The park is divided into various themed areas with rides, shows, and attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some key attractions:

1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™:

  • Frog Choir: Enjoy a harmonic offering of songs by a choir of Hogwarts™ students, accompanied by their talented croaking frogs. The group of four students – one from each house; Gryffindor™, Slytherin™, Hufflepuff™ and Ravenclaw™ – perform songs familiar in the wizarding world.
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™: A thrilling, immersive ride that takes you through iconic scenes from the Harry Potter films.
  • Flight of the Hippogriff™: Follow Hagrid’s instructions as you learn the proper way to approach a Hippogriff, which has the head of a giant eagle and the body of a horse. Then you’ll take off on a family-friendly coaster that spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch, and swoops past Hagrid’s Hut.
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Universal Studios Japan Attractions

2. Minion Park:

  • Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: A 4D ride where guests join Gru, his daughters, and the mischievous Minions on a heartwarming and thrilling ride.
  • Super Silly Fun Land: An outdoor playground with water features, inspired by the seaside amusement park from the Despicable Me franchise.
Universal Studios Japan Attractions

3. Super Nintendo World:

  • Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge™: Race your way to victory! Iconic Mario Kart courses have been brought to life with cutting-edge technology. Challenge enemies with shells! Aim for the finish line with Mario and Peach!
  • Yoshi's Adventure: Hang on to Yoshi as you search for Captain Toad on a treasure hunt! Use the Captain's map to find 3 mysterious eggs! Get a spectacular view of the Mushroom Kingdom from Mount Beanpole while having fun on this ride that's perfect for the whole family.
Universal Studios Japan Attractions

4. Jurassic Park :

  • A water-based attraction where guests embark on a river adventure through a dinosaur habitat, culminating in an exciting drop.
Universal Studios Japan Attractions

5. Hollywood:

  • A high-speed roller coaster that offers a panoramic view of the park, with an option to choose backward-facing seats for a different experience.
Universal Studios Japan Attractions

6. Universal Wonderland:

  • A family-friendly area with attractions themed around beloved characters such as Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Sesame Street.
Universal Studios Japan Attractions

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FAQs about Universal Studios Japan

  • Is there fireworks at Universal Studio Japan?

    Universal Studios Japan only has fireworks on special occasions such as New Year's Eve or Christmas.
  • Can I bring food and drinks into Universal Studios Japan?

    Please refrain from bringing food or drinks into the park. Please use the free picnic areas near the parking lot if you've brought food and drinks. Contained water may be brought inside of park.
  • Are there facilities for guests with disabilities in Universal Studios Japan?

    Yes, Universal Studios Japan offers a range of services for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair rental and accessible restrooms.
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