What other travelers are saying about Super Nintendo World Osaka
The main reason to visit universal studios, firstly if you get here early and run you can enter without a premium pass but it will still be crowded and you may still be queuing for an hour for the rides. You can apply for timed entry by scanning the qr code. The nfc wristbands are expensive but you'll probably get them for the kids, there's lots of activities and challenges around, you need 3 keys in order to unlock bowser's castle. The place looks unreal, there's lots of easter eggs, attention to detail, there's video game music as you walk through familiar places like princess peach's castle, bowser's castle, donkey Kong country, etc.. Merchandise is excellent but expensive, as are the snacks especially the popcorn. The cafe is also timed entry and you need the line app to apply for a table. I didn't go on the yoshi ride, the mario kart ride was a little disappointing, the build up was good as you go through the castle and see the trophies and Mario kart TV studio. But the lenses kept slipping so I kept having to adjust them as I was going around, it was impressive but the head gear just didn't play nice with my glasses. By far the best ride and for me the best ride in the whole park was the mine cart ride, it was fantastic, I was grinning as I was going round as it completely original, and really fun. I felt that Nintendo had more of a hand in designing the ride. People will moan about how busy the place is, the queues, how expensive it is but it's a theme park, they are all the same. It's just that this one has a popular video game associated with it.
Highly recommended.
Super Nintendo World Japan is everything I’ve been waiting for—and more! Last year, we didn’t manage to win the lottery for the area timed ticket, but this time, we finally did, and it was absolutely worth the wait.
The moment we stepped inside, it felt like our childhood came alive. The vibrant design, immersive atmosphere, and rides that perfectly capture the spirit of the games left us in awe. A big plus: you can even interact with the iconic question blocks throughout the park, adding a fun, nostalgic touch to the experience.
Tip: Be sure to get an Express Pass, especially for Mario Kart and Donkey Kong rides, as the wait can easily reach 1–2 hours.
This is hands down one of the best theme park experiences ever. I’m already planning to come back next year!
It's ok. Couldn't imagine doing it without the express pass - the lines are insane. Without equipping yourself with the mario kart and donkey kong mining cart passes, you can expect a 1.5-2h line for each, and that's without considering the lines when the park opens, and the masses in the cafe and shops. Luckily I spent all of my hard earned cash and wasn't poor enough to suffer in the lines, so be preapred. The area itself is pretty, well designed but not spacious enough so you will feel the crowds. Good luck!
We went straight to Nintendo world. It’s like living in the game! We played twice the yoshi world. So much fun! All the staff are super friendly! Always smiling and energetic. We waited for Mario kart for 2 hours but it didn’t feel that long as the queue was constantly moving forward. We found all the ? boxes. Lots of merch to select from. Got the M cap - a must buy!! Also the ⭐️ box from the popcorn shop is a hidden gem much worth the price! Superb quality. Finally as a side note.. feel like many local veterans are there as they smashed through all the challenges.. :>
Nintendo World Japan is a dream come true for anyone who grew up playing Mario or just loves immersive theme parks. From the moment I walked through the giant green pipe into the Mushroom Kingdom, I was smiling nonstop. The colors, the music, the moving characters—it all felt alive. But the best part by far was the Mario Kart ride called Koopa’s Challenge.
The queue itself was amazing, with Bowser’s Castle full of trophies, glowing signs, and cool details from the game. Once I got on the ride, I was blown away. You wear a visor that shows virtual racers, flying shells, and spinning coins, all layered over the real track. It felt like I was inside the game, steering through turns and trying to win. The ride was fast, exciting, and surprisingly interactive. I actually felt like I was racing.
Outside the ride, I loved exploring the park with my Power Up Band, collecting coins and unlocking secrets. The food was fun too, like the mushroom shaped snacks and themed drinks. Staff were cheerful and helpful, adding to the joyful vibe.
Nintendo World is not just a park—it is a full experience. If you love games or just want to feel like a kid again, this place is worth every moment.
Super Nintendo World Osaka is a themed area within Universal Studios Japan dedicated to Nintendo's popular video game franchises, particularly focusing on the world of Super Mario. It offers immersive attractions, interactive experiences, and themed dining and shopping.
Super Nintendo World officially opened on March 18, 2021, after being delayed from its original summer 2020 opening due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key attractions include 'Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge,' an augmented reality ride that takes guests through iconic Mario Kart courses, and 'Yoshi's Adventure,' a family-friendly ride through Yoshi's Island. The park also features interactive activities where guests can collect virtual coins and keys using a Power-Up Band.
The Power-Up Bands are wearable wristbands that allow visitors to interact with various elements throughout the park. Guests can sync the bands with a smartphone app to keep track of their scores from interactive challenges, collect virtual coins, and unlock special activities by hitting question blocks and defeating enemies.
Yes, there are themed dining options like Kinopio’s Cafe, which offers dishes inspired by the Mushroom Kingdom. The cafe provides a whimsical atmosphere with menu items that resemble characters and elements from the Super Mario games.