Visiting Universal Studios Japan was absolutely worth it. We bought the Express Pass, which is quite expensive, but honestly essential — especially for areas like Super Nintendo World, where regular waits can easily exceed two hours. Thanks to the pass, we managed to enjoy 7 top rides with priority access, and combined with other attractions that had around 30–40 minutes of waiting, we ended up doing 11–12 rides in total. Everything was perfectly organized, and the overall experience was seamless.
The park itself is on another level — the design, the attractions, the atmosphere… it’s by far the best theme park I’ve ever been to. Worth every yen.
100% worth it! I was really having the best time of my life! All the staff genuinely seemed welcoming and happy to be there. There is this culture where they just wave at any visitors. Just love it! Even though for the Jaws ride, I could not understand what the actor was saying, the facial expressions and body language were top notch and I still understood what he wanted to portray. Besides all the rides which were of course great especially the Flying Dinosaur roller coaster, Jaws, Harry Potter, Spy Family and Mario Kart, there was this concert in the end and boy was it hyped. People were actually dancing and the atmosphere was LIT. They even sprayed water as part of the environment. HAD THE BEST TIME.
Had a great time! We woke up really early (6am) to get to the park early, they let us in at 8am. We didn’t have to book tickets for the Nintendo world since we got there very early. I can’t compare since it’s my first big amusement park I’ve gone to, but the rides for a first timer is really good. I just didn’t know we had to book for the toad cafe, which is a shame cause the food looked really good. Amazing day
Fair entrance and food/ drink prices, very well organized staff and shows that are worth visiting.
We spent the entire day in the park and would resume that one day is enough to see/ ride most of its attractions.
Make sure that you book an entry slot for the Nintendo world as you won’t get in otherwise.
We would also recommend using the “single rider” queue to prevent crazy long waiting times.
Also we would definitely visit the water show again.
Universal Studios Japan is absolutely a must-do for visitors to Osaka. If you’re only planning a one-day visit, purchasing an Express Pass is essential — without it, much of your time will be spent waiting in long lines. With the pass, you can enjoy several major attractions without the stress.
Each themed area is well designed, offering both family-friendly and more thrilling rides, along with interactive games for kids. There are plenty of food stalls, snack vendors, souvenir shops, and vending machines throughout the park, along with taps for water — very thoughtful and convenient. The official app is also excellent, helping save time by providing live updates on wait times, maps, and amenities.
Personal highlights included Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which was immersive and exciting, and Hollywood Dream – The Ride, which delivered a great adrenaline rush. I skipped The Flying Dinosaur — the screams were enough for me! Super Nintendo World was visually impressive and fun to explore, though the rides felt a bit tame for thrill-seekers.
Public transport access is straightforward, and the availability of large lockers makes it manageable for those travelling with luggage. Overall, a well-run, exciting, and thoroughly enjoyable park — highly recommended.
English translation for some intro to the attractions should be added.
