Osaka Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day at Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is one of the top theme parks in the world. It’s located in Osaka and is known for its exciting rides, amazing shows, themed zones, and movie magic! You’ll find areas like Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter World, Minion Park, and more.
Here’s how to enjoy a full day at USJ step-by-step!
Buy Your Tickets Before You Go
Tickets often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. You must buy them online in advance.
Where to Buy Tickets:
Trip To Japan (Easy and in English – good for travelers)
What to Buy:
Studio Pass (1-Day Ticket) – Required for park entry
Express Pass (Optional but helpful) – Skip long lines for popular rides
Timed Entry Pass – Needed for Super Nintendo World (can be included or booked in the app)
Tip: If you want to visit Super Nintendo World, choose a ticket that includes area timed entry or get a free timed entry in the app once you enter the park.
Download the Official USJ App
Before your visit, download the free USJ app from the App Store or Google Play.
Why it’s helpful:
Shows real-time wait times for rides
Lets you get free timed-entry tickets for Super Nintendo World
Shows maps, restaurants, show schedules, and more
Take a Train to Universal-City Station
USJ is located in Osaka and is easy to reach by train.
From Osaka Station
Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station
Transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line (Local Sakurajima Line)
Get off at Universal-City Station (5-minute walk to the entrance)
From Namba Station
Take the Hanshin Namba Line to Nishikujo Station
Transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal-City Station
Arrive Early at the Park
Try to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before opening time (usually around 8:30–9:00 AM).
Why?
You’ll enter quickly
Shorter lines for big rides
Better chance of getting into Super Nintendo World
Enter Super Nintendo World (If You Have Timed Entry)
This area is very popular and feels like a real-life Mario game!
Must-Do Activities:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge – 4D racing ride
Yoshi’s Adventure – Gentle ride with fun views
Use a Power-Up Band (sold inside) to collect coins and punch question blocks
Head to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
This area is like stepping into a Harry Potter movie. You can see Hogwarts Castle, ride magical rides, and even try Butterbeer (non-alcoholic and sweet!).
Must-Do Activities:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Magical 4D flying ride
Flight of the Hippogriff – Small roller coaster
Try a Butterbeer (non-alcoholic, sweet and creamy)
Food:
Roast chicken, corn, potatoes
Vegetarian plate available
Cozy wooden setting like in the films
Tip: Lines for Butterbeer can be long. Try it early or right after lunch.
Lunch at a Park Restaurant or Food Stand
There are many food choices throughout the park. Some are sit-down cafés, and others are food stands with snacks and meals.
General Restaurant Options:
Mel’s Drive-In (Hollywood area) – Burgers and fries in a retro setting
Louie’s N.Y. Pizza Parlor (New York area) – Big pizza slices and salads
Discovery Restaurant (Jurassic Park) – Grilled chicken, rice, and healthy options
Minion Happy Kitchen – Cute Minion-themed treats and meals
Gluten-free/vegan meals: Limited, but you can ask staff for help or bring your own snacks
Explore Other Themed Zones
After lunch, check out other areas in the park.
Other Popular Rides:
Hollywood Area
Hollywood Dream: The Ride – A big roller coaster (with optional backward ride)
SING on Tour – Musical show with dancing characters
New York Area
Spider-Man: The Ride – Action-packed 3D ride
Jurassic Park
Jurassic Park: The Ride – Water splash ride
The Flying Dinosaur – Very fast roller coaster (for thrill lovers)
Minion Park
Great for families and younger kids
Cute games, character greetings, themed snacks
Take a Snack or Coffee Break in the Afternoon
Places to Rest or Grab a Treat:
Starbucks (inside Universal CityWalk) – Good for coffee and snacks before or after the park
Popcorn stands – Try fun flavors like curry or caramel
Minion Ice Cream Sandwiches – Popular and photo-friendly!
Watch a Parade or Street Show (If Available)
Parades and shows happen during the day or evening. Times vary.
Examples:
NO LIMIT! Parade – Features Mario, Minions, Sesame Street, and more
Street Performers – Music and dance shows in different zones
Check the USJ app for the schedule.
Shop for Souvenirs Before You Leave
Before leaving, stop at the big Universal Studios Store near the entrance. It’s full of:
✔ Mario and Luigi hats
✔ Harry Potter wands and scarves
✔ Minion plush toys
✔ Exclusive Japan-only souvenirs
Eat Dinner at Universal CityWalk (Outside the Park)
After the park closes, relax with a nice dinner at Universal CityWalk, just outside the gates.
Dinner Options:
Pomme-no-ki – Budget-friendly westernized Japanese food specializing in Omurice (some meat free options)
Gottie's Beef - Steak and hamburger joint with generous portions to fill you up after a full day of thrills.
Shake Shack - The iconic American burger joint. It has a vegetarian burger option.
Head Back to Your Hotel by Train
From Universal-City Station, take the JR Yumesaki Line back to Nishikujo, then transfer to your original line (Osaka Loop, JR, etc).
- Enter Super Nintendo World (If You Have Timed Entry)2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
- Head to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
- Eat Dinner at Universal CityWalk (Outside the Park)6-chōme-2-61 Shimaya, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0024, Japan
