Universal Studios Japan

Dive into incredible movie worlds at Universal Studios Japan! Enjoy thrilling USJ attractions, catch spectacular shows, and meet your favourite characters from beloved franchises like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. USJ is absolutely perfect for film buffs, thrill-seekers, and families alike.

Universal Studios Japan: Opening Times & Location

Universal Studios Japan, often known as USJ, is one of the four fantastic Universal Studios theme parks. It was the very first Universal Studios theme park to open in Asia and welcomes over 10 million excited visitors each year!

• Our standard opening hours (a brilliant 13 hours!) typically run from 08:30 to 21:30.
• Extended Hours (14.0 hrs): 08:00–22:00 (especially in August, early September & October).
• Reduced Hours: 09:00–20:00 (11.0 hours), 09:00–19:00 (10.0 hours early September), 08:30–18:30 (10.0 hours, 4 September), 09:30–21:30 (12.0 hours, 27 July).
• Peak Season: August and October often feature extended opening hours.

Opening hours can vary depending on the season and special events, so it’s best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

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

How to get to Universal Studios Japan

Direct from Universal Studios Japan Official

Getting to Universal Studios Japan, nestled in the vibrant city of Osaka, is part of the adventure! How you travel there might depend on your starting point, but fear not, we've got the lowdown on some popular ways to reach the magic:

1. Train:

From Osaka Station:

• Getting there: Hop on the JR Yumesaki Line (you might also hear it called the JR Sakurajima Line) and it'll whisk you straight to Universal-City Station. From there, it's just a leisurely five-minute stroll to the gates of Universal Studios Japan.
• Cost: approximately £1.10
• Travel Time: Around 10-15 minutes

From Kyoto Station:

• Route: Catch the JR Kyoto Line to Osaka Station, then change to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal-City Station.
• Cost: approximately . £4.80
• Travel Time: Around 45-60 minutes

2. Bus:

From Kansai International Airport:

• Route: There are direct airport limousine buses that will take you straight to Universal Studios Japan.
• Cost: approximately £9.20
• Travel Time: Around 70 minutes

Source: The official Universal Studios Japan

3. Taxi:

Taxis are readily available across Osaka, offering a direct and convenient journey straight to Universal Studios Japan. Just a heads-up, though – they do tend to be a bit pricier than hopping on public transport.

• Cost: This can vary quite a bit depending on your starting point; from Osaka Station, it could set you back around £15–£21.50.
• Travel Time: It really depends on the traffic, but from Osaka Station, you're probably looking at around 15-30 minutes.

4. Ferry:

• Get ready for a seamless adventure! The Captain Line ferry service effortlessly links Universal Studios Japan with the incredible Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan), making it wonderfully easy to explore both these fantastic attractions in the vibrant Osaka Bay area.
• Cost: approximately £4.80 for a single ticket
• Travel Time: Around 10 minutes

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

Source: The official Universal Studios Japan

Best time to go to Universal Studios Japan

The best time to visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka really hinges on a few exciting factors, such as the weather, how busy the park might be, and any dazzling special events. To help you plan your perfect adventure, here are some top tips to consider:

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

What to Eat at Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan serves up a brilliant array of dining options, guaranteed to satisfy every palate. Ready to tuck in? Here are some of the park's most beloved eateries:

Things to do at Universal Studios Japan

Direct from Universal Studios Japan Official

1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Butterbeer.
2. Minion Park: 3D rides, meet Minions, and shop for merchandise.
3. Jurassic Park: Jungle exploration and thrilling river rides.
4. Waterworld: Live-action stunt show with epic water explosions.
5. Jaws: Boat ride face-to-face with the great white shark.
6. Universal Wonderland: Family-friendly rides with Sesame Street, Hello Kitty, and Snoopy.
7. Amity Village: Themed attractions inspired by Jaws.
8. Hollywood: Stroll Hollywood Boulevard and enjoy live entertainment.
9. San Francisco: Recreates the charm of the city; don’t miss the Backdraft attraction.
10. New York: Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – The Ride 4K3D and iconic landmarks.

Universal Studios Japan Map

Direct from Universal Studios Japan Official

As the map above shows, Universal Studios Japan is divided into 10 fantastic themed lands. Travellers will also find brilliant play areas, a wide array of restaurants, shops, and other essential services such as guest services, ATM service, family services, and currency exchange facilities, all conveniently located on the map.

Universal Studios Japan Attractions

1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™:

• Frog Choir: Get ready to be charmed by a harmonious offering of songs from a choir of Hogwarts™ students, all accompanied by their rather talented croaking frogs! This delightful quartet – featuring one student from each iconic house: Gryffindor™, Slytherin™, Hufflepuff™, and Ravenclaw™ – will serenade you with tunes well-known throughout 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.

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.

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.

4. Jurassic Park :

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

5. Hollywood:

• Brace yourself for a high-speed roller coaster offering breathtaking panoramic views of the park! Fancy a twist? You can even opt for backward-facing seats for a truly unique thrill.

6. Universal Wonderland:

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

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