Universal Studios Japan's Super Nintendo World Is Now Open!

Originally scheduled to welcome visitors in 2020 before the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, the opening of Universal Studios Japan's Super Nintendo World was pushed back multiple times due to the coronavirus pandemic. However on March 18, 2021, the park finally opened to the local public, bringing to life the fictional world of Nintendo's most famous games.

While we may have to explore the Nintendo World through our screens for a little while longer, the good news is that Universal Studios Japan's Super Nintendo World will be open by the time we get to travel to Japan! For now, be sure to put this attraction on your Japan travel bucket list as we share with you what you can expect from this gamer's paradise:

The Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan is the first attraction based on the firm's games (followed by expansions in Universal theme parks across the globe) and cost over ¥60 billion to construct. That said, guests can expect the incredible attention to detail that was put into bringing these games to life.

Visitors would be able to marvel at iconic buildings from games such as the Bowser's Castle, spot Super Mushrooms, stacked Goombas, a Koopa Troopa, movin blocks and coins, and even a Thwomp during their visit!

This immersive land will feature Nintendo's legendary worlds, characters, and adventures! It will feature a state-of-the-art Mario Kart and Yoshi-themed rides and attractions that we already can't wait to hop on, as well as restaurants, shops, and other experiences that can only be found at Universal Studios Japan.

Guests will get to immerse in the world by strapping on a Power-Up Band, an innovative technology that will bring gameplay to life. You can keep score, collect virtual coins and stamps, and even punch blocks with the Power-Up Band in the colourful and interactive Super Nintendo World.

You wouldn't want to miss the majestic Bowser's Castle on your visit! The castle exudes mystery through the photos, amplified with stone walls, spiked fences, heavy iron doors, and a grand staircase.

As far as rides go, Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge is one every visitor must absolutely try. The AR-supported attraction will have guests go through an exciting coaster ride with AR googles for a realistic experience of Mario Kart - how cool is that? Considering the hype for this ride, you can expect long lines - but, the wait won't feel as long with the incredible set design featuring Bowser's Study, the Bomb-omb factory, a Mario Kart race filming studio - all including easter eggs Mario fans will surely find exciting!

On the other hand, Yoshi's Adventure Ride will be a fun attraction for both kids and kids at heart. Just upon queueing, visitors will already be immersed into Yoshi's world with interactive activities they can do while they wait until their turn! The ride itself will take park goers through an immersive tour of Super Nintendo World.

Afterwards, be sure to treat yourself to a hefty meal at Yoshi's Snack Land and power up!

The adventure doesn't end there! Every aspect of this new theme park will thrill long-time fans - from the themed food stops like Kinopio Cafe and Pit Stop Popcorn to the gift shops, 1UP Factory and Mario Motors, selling exclusive merchandise.

Ahead of the opening of Super Nintendo World, the world's first-ever Mario Café & Store opened its doors in the park on 16 Oct 2020!

At the cafe, visitors will get to enjoy exclusive themed food based on the games such as Mario and Luigi pancake sandwiches, drinks served in adorable Super Mushroom bottles, and fruit cream sodas. The vibrant cafe features colorful checkered floors, walls decorated with icons from the games, and tables with polka-dot design!

To differentiate itself from the Mario Cafe, the Mario Store is designed with Mario Kart in mind. Check out the checkered floors, the racing flags, and the clear blue skies that are always present in Mario Kart Land. The Mario Shop sells Universal Studios Japan-exclusive merchandise that can’t be purchased anywhere else. While the full range of products hasn’t been released, there will definitely be cute pouches, phone cases, shirts, and even keychains waiting to be brought home!

We don't know about you, be we're already looking forward to the day we hear the words, "flight to Japan is now boarding". It doesn't hurt to plan ahead, so while you're here, be sure to check out our Japan guides for your first trip post-pandemic!