Here's why you must visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka!
If you’re thinking of a long-awaited trip to Japan, you should definitely add Osaka to your itinerary! Here, you will definitely lose track of time as you hop from one attraction to another (think Osaka Aquarium, Osaka Castle, and the famous Universal Studios Japan) or simply walk around to explore its beauty and culture. 🏯
You’ll also have a blast as you splurge on street food, such as takoyaki (fried octopus balls), mitarashi-dango (rice dumpling skewers), kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers), and long softcream.
Now that Japan’s finally fully open to tourists, everyone visiting Osaka will definitely have iconic Universal Studios Japan in their itinerary — and for good reason! This action-packed attraction has been made even more exciting with the addition of several new rides and themed areas that are just waiting to be discovered by you.
There are now more activities in the park for both kids and kids-at-heart, so if that’s starting to pump up some excitement in you, then read on below to know more! 🤩
What’s new in Universal Studios Japan?
1. Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Welcome to the world of the Minions! The Minion Park area features various Minions-themed attractions like the Space Killer, Minions Greeting, and Freeze Ray Sliders.
But the top ride you shouldn't miss is the all-new Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem! You'll plunge right into a world of absolute mayhem projected on a giant dome screen as you climb aboard a special vehicle designed by Gru. This ride is adorable, hilarious, and totally out of control as you train to be an actual Minion!
The Space Killer is a feature in the area where you’ll play the bazooka game and get a chance to win a fluffy unicorn toy like the one in the films! The street show, Minions Greeting, is perfect for anyone who wants to see Gru’s home and meet some Minions. You can even take photos with them to have a token of the moment!
There’s also a ride, Freeze Ray Sliders, that will have you slipping and sliding on a make-believe ice rink created by the Minions! The best thing is this ride is suitable for kids!
#KlookTip: Don't forget to check out all the souvenir shops like the Minions Pop Shop and Sweet Surrender where they sell the most adorable Minion merchandise. Trust me, you'll be spending quite a bit of time in there!
2. Super Nintendo World
Moving on to another crowd favourite is the brand-new Super Nintendo World! Gear up as you race on a Mario Kart, join in on the Power-Up Band game, and then treat yourself to a much-deserved break at Kinopio’s Cafe later on!
The Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge will take you through a race track where you’ll be guided by Mario and Peach to get to the finish line — ride your kart, put on your reality visor, and start racin’!
The Power-Up Band game gives you the chance to have the full experience at Super Nintendo World — use your band of choice to win various challenges (found everywhere in the Super Nintendo World area) to earn keys, battle enemies like Bowser Jr., and retrieve the Golden Mushroom!
#KlookTip: You need to download the USJ app on your phone and pair your Power-Up Band for the best game experience!
After running around in Super Nintendo World to win the Power-Up Band game, head on over to Kinopio’s Cafe to take a break! Kinopio’s Cafe offers gourmet dishes made by Chef Toad like Mario’s Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi’s Green Curry Chicken Sandwich, and Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl with Mushroom Tomato Sauce. They also have desserts like Princess Peach’s Cake and the ? Block Tiramisu!
#KlookTip: A timed ticket may be required to enter Kinopio's Cafe. You should get one first when you arrive at Super Nintendo World, so you can use that waiting time to explore the area!
Other attractions to explore
Once you’re done visiting Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and Super Nintendo World, you can now explore the other attractions! Some of our favourites include:
1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Japan to get a glimpse of what it’s like to be a wizard for a day! Here, the books and films come to life in different forms of attractions like rides, shows, shops, and even restaurants!
Don’t miss the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride that's set right within the magical Hogwarts Castle. You'll explore the classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, including Dumbledore's office and the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom.
What's a magical journey without learning to cast your own spells? Explore various spots throughout Hogsmeade for a chance to cast spells and wait for the magic to happen. But first, you'll have to stop by the Ollivanders Wand Shop where you can buy the interactive wand that chooses you.
Stop by the Three Broomsticks restaurant where you can choose from various savoury dishes like The Great Feast (with different kinds of meat), Black Beer Beef Stew, Rotisserie Smoked Chicken, and Shepherd’s Pie Plate!
#KlookTip: We definitely recommend you visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter closer to sunset as you can see the whole area transform into a truly magical place in the evening!
2. The Flying Dinosaur
Thrill-seekers are sure to love this ride! The Flying Dinosaur will take you to the world’s second-longest flying roller coaster track measuring 1,124 meters and will leave you speechless during the initial drop. There will also be a 360-degree swing through the world of Jurassic Park, so to be able to take on this ride, you should have a healthy heart and body!
#KlookTip: During the initial drop, make sure to strike your best pose because a photo of that moment will be captured! You may purchase your photo after the ride.
3. On-the-Go Foods
If you’re fond of amusement park snacks, then drop by On-the-Go Foods located all around USJ! Taste different snacks selling food items like churros, rice bowls, calzones, shortcakes, ice cream, sodas, and iced teas. It’s the perfect place for a quick energy recharge after a day of walking around the park.
#KlookTip: Don't forget to check out the various popcorn stands as you might just find seasonal popcorn buckets that are irresistible!
Where can I buy Universal Studios Japan tickets?
On Klook, of course, where your Universal Studios Japan ticket is just a click away! Now that you know what’s in store for you when you visit Universal Studios Japan, you might want to also consider getting the Universal Express Pass so that you can maximise your visit by skipping the queues for these top rides!
We have put together this handy guide on how to book Universal Studios Japan tickets just for you. Check it out now!
