Universal Studios Japan, also known as USJ, is a popular theme park and entertainment complex located in Osaka, Japan. It's one of several Universal Studios theme parks around the world and is known for its extensive collection of rides, attractions, and entertainment based on popular movies and television shows. 

Universal Studios Japan
Hogwarts Castle

Earlier this year, I went to Japan with my family and USJ was on the top of our list of places to visit. We got our tickets at cheaper rates than usual because we visited during the off-peak season. If you're planning to visit USJ, here's a quick guide.


Key Attractions in Universal Studios Japan

USJ features a wide range of attractions inspired by Universal's film and television properties, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Minion Park, Jaws, Spider-Man, and more. To be honest, one day isn't enough to visit all of it so I'd recommend going for two days or at least getting the 1.5-day pass. However, if you can only spend a day there, then here are some popular attractions you shouldn't miss.

Universal Studios Japan

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This area is a major draw for visitors, featuring highly detailed recreations of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. As a big Harry Potter fan since the early 2000s, visiting this area is at the top of my list. 

Upon entering the area, you'll be welcomed into a replica of Hogsmeade, a picturesque wizarding village from the Harry Potter books and films. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, visit the shops, and enjoy the atmosphere. There's even a replica of the Hogwarts Express train. I'm not kidding when I say that I nearly cried when I got here. 

Universal Studios Japan
 Hogsmeade

Here you'll find various shops inspired by the series, such as Honeydukes, where you can buy wizarding sweets, and Ollivanders, where you can purchase wands. There are also themed restaurants and eateries like the Three Broomsticks and the Leaky Cauldron.

A central feature is a highly detailed and realistic replica of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While you can't attend classes, you can explore the castle's interior, which often houses a popular attraction. It also houses the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which is a state-of-the-art 4D ride that takes you on a thrilling adventure through various scenes from the books and movies.

Universal Studios Japan
obligatory photo with the castle while decked proudly in my Slytherin house color

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter really provided an authentic experience for Harry Potter fans as the attention to detail in the design and theming is impressive. It really made me feel as if I've stepped into the magical world created by J.K. Rowling. 

Super Nintendo World

This is another super popular attraction especially for fans of Nintendo video games, especially Super Mario, as it was designed to bring the world of the said video games to life. The entire area is intended to make visitors feel as though they've stepped into a real-life video game.

The land includes a variety of attractions, including a Mario Kart-themed ride called "Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge." It features augmented reality (AR) technology to create a dynamic racing experience. There's also a Yoshi-themed ride called "Yoshi's Adventure." Visitors can use a wearable wristband called a "Power-Up Band" to interact with various elements in the land. These bands connect with a smartphone app to gamify the experience, allowing guests to collect virtual coins, solve puzzles, and engage in activities throughout the area.

Universal Studios Japan
Super Nintendo World

Jurassic Park

This area was inspired by the "Jurassic Park" film franchise, featuring attractions such as "Jurassic Park - The Ride." It also features the thrilling ride called "The Flying Dinosaur", which is a flying rollercoaster ride, also known as the world's longest track and the world's largest drop.

Hollywood

Located near the entrance, this section of the park replicates the atmosphere of Hollywood and includes attractions like the "Hollywood Dream - The Ride," a roller coaster, and "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man," a 4D simulator.

Universal Studios Japan
Hollywood area

Minion Park

This is another cute area in USJ. Inspired by the "Despicable Me" movie franchise, this area is designed to resemble the neighborhood from the "Despicable Me" films. The area is filled with colorful and playful decorations that transport visitors into the world of the Minions. It features Minion-themed attractions, and the popular "Minion Mayhem" ride.

Other Attractions

The ones mentioned above are just some of the popular areas in Universal Studios Japan. Other areas include the New York area, which is designed to resemble the iconic cityscape of New York City, and the San Francisco area, which is modeled after the said city.

Universal Studios Japan
New York area

There's also Amity Village, which is located within the Jurassic Park area. Here you'll find the "JAWS" ride, which is a boat ride featuring a confrontation with the iconic great white shark from the movie.

Where to Get Tickets for Universal Studios Japan

Getting tickets for Universal Studios Japan can be done online and offline. You can get tickets at the park's official website, at the gate, or through authorized ticket sellers. Standard admission tickets give you entry to the park and access to all the rides and attractions. You can get a day pass, a 1.5-day pass, or a 2-day pass. The price can vary depending on the date, with higher prices during peak periods. 

We got our day pass through Klook, which provided us with a hassle-free experience when entering the park. The tickets were sent through email and it had a QR code that was scanned at the gate. Because we visited in February, which isn't peak season for visitors, our tickets were cheaper.

Universal Studios Japan
inside the Hogwarts Castle

Express Pass

An Express Pass at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a special ticket that allows you to skip regular lines and enjoy priority access to many of the park's popular attractions. It's a valuable option for visitors who want to make the most of their time in the park and avoid long wait times for rides and shows.

USJ typically offers several types of Express Passes, each with different levels of access. These passes can vary in terms of the number of attractions covered and the specific rides included. The Express Pass grants you priority access to a selection of popular attractions within the park. The exact attractions covered depend on the type of pass you purchase.

Universal Studios Japan
San Francisco area with the Flying Dinosaur rollercoaster in the background

The cost of Express Passes varies depending on the type and level of access. Prices also differ based on peak and off-peak periods. Express Passes are typically limited in number and can sell out quickly, especially during busy times, so it's a good idea to purchase them in advance. We got our Express Passes through Klook and while it was pricey, it was definitely worth it.

How to Get to Universal Studios Japan

Getting to Universal Studios Japan is relatively straightforward, and you have several transportation options to choose from, depending on your starting point.

Universal Studios Japan
the Hogwarts Express

The most common way to reach USJ is by taking the train. The nearest train station to the park is Universal City Station. To get there, you can use the JR Yumesaki Line, also known as the JR Sakurajima Line, which is accessible from the Osaka Loop Line at Nishikujo Station. The ride from Osaka Station to Universal City Station typically takes around 10-15 minutes. From Universal City Station, the park is within walking distance. 

Before entering the park, you'll find a huge store selling USJ items so if you want to wear fun hats or even a full Hogwarts uniform while inside the park, you can already buy your outfits there. You can also buy the same items in souvenir shops in their designated areas. As for me, I already got my Slytherin scarf even before entering the park so I could wear it the whole day. 

Some hotels and tour companies offer shuttle bus services to the park. Be sure to check with your accommodation or local tour operators for availability and schedules. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi but this may be a more expensive option compared to the train, especially during peak traffic times.

Universal Studios Japan


If you're planning a trip to Osaka, Japan, then I'd highly recommend going to Universal Studios Japan, especially if you're a Harry Potter or Nintendo fan, or if you simply just love going to theme parks. 

It can be pricey but it's definitely worth it. I do recommend during off-peak seasons like summer or winter to get cheaper tickets and avoid long queues at the entrance and the rides. Or you can simply just get an Express Pass so you can skip the lines.