Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a dream holiday destination for kids and kids-at-heart. This world-class theme park situated in Osaka is one of the six Universal Studios in the world, offering a variety of attractions and events for every guest to enjoy!
USJ is a huge amusement park, so it can be a bit confusing to navigate around. For you to fully maximize the experience, we’ve got some tips for you on your visit to Universal Studios Japan!
How to Get There
By Train
From Kansai International Airport, take the JR Hanwa Line going to Nishi-Kujo station. From there, board the train going to Universal City Station.
From Osaka station, there are direct trains going to Universal City Station via JR Sakurajima Line. The Universal City Station is just a five-minute walk away from the USJ park entrance.
By Bus
Take the hourly buses from Kansai Airport and Itami Airport going to USJ. From Kansai Airport, it takes about one hour, while if you’re coming from Itami Airport, it’s just 45 minutes away.
For hassle-free travel, we suggest that you purchase an e-MCO e-ticket beforehand that you could use to exchange for a JR West Kansai Area Pass at a ticket vending machine upon your arrival. This ticket gives you unlimited access to all JR trains (except Hokkaido shinkansen), and it’s more affordable and easy to use. You could use this in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, saving you from the hassle of going through long lines to buy a ticket.
By Car
If you’re coming to USJ by car, just take the Hanshin Expressway Wangan Route’s Hokko JCT, and then take the exit to Universal City.
Tickets
To enter Universal Studios, you’ll need to purchase an admission ticket. You can buy these from the official web ticket store or authorized travel agencies like KKDay.
Studio Pass
Studio Pass is your park entry ticket to USJ which also gives you access to all attractions in the park. When you purchase via KKDay, you could book and receive your e-voucher shortly, which also gives you the privilege to skip the long lines to enter the park. There’s also a 2-Day Studio pass that you can use for two consecutive days of admission, and a 1.5-Day Studio Pass valid from 3 pm on the first day for two consecutive days.
There are different kinds of Studio Passes: A, B, C, and D. They are all one-day passes to the park, but on different dates and at different prices. Check this Studio Pass calendar so you could check the price on your preferred date.
Universal Express Pass
The Universal Express Pass is an add-on to your Studio Pass, which you have the option to buy if you want to reduce your waiting time at some of the popular attractions inside. It’s a convenient way to skip the long lines and maximize your time in the park. You could use this to guarantee yourself a space at the viewing parade too. Just always present your QR code to the crew member at the Express Pass entrance of every attraction.
Things to Note
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- Some rides have age, height, and health restrictions. Visit the USJ website for more details.
- Studio Pass and Universal Express Pass cannot be refunded nor changed after successful payment.
- You can use your Universal Express Pass anytime for non-time-designated attractions. For time-designated ones, visit them at the time printed on your ticket.
- Each guest must have one Studio Pass. The Universal Express pass is just an optional add-on to your Studio Pass.
What to Bring to Universal Studios Japan
Before you go, make sure you have these handy items to make your visit to USJ fun, safe, and convenient! Here are some of the must-haves to bring into the park.
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- Studio Pass
- Universal Express Pass (optional)
- The essentials: money, passport, valid ID
- Extra set of clothes (some rides can make you get wet!)
What NOT to Bring to Universal Studios Japan
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- Suitcases, luggage, or carts (use coin lockers to store your belongings)
- Blades, explosives, weapons, and other dangerous items
- Helmets
- Food (except baby food or snacks for small children)
- Monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks
- Drones and remote control vehicles
- Pets and animals (except service animals)
Best Time to Visit
Visit the park during the off-season when it’s generally less crowded from October to December. It’s also ideal to book a visit on lean days like Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. If you want to avoid crowds, refrain from visiting during Japan’s public holidays, the Golden Week, festivals, and the New Year holidays. Peak season is from the second week of July to August.
Tips:
Arrive early.
It’s best to arrive at least one hour before the park opens so that you’re the first one to quickly go to your preferred attraction.
Get an Express Pass if you’re visiting during peak season.
During peak season, waiting time can get up to a few hours or more at popular attractions. If you want to save time and energy, get yourself an Express Pass!
Take advantage of the Child Switch.
If you’re visiting with children, you can take turns with your other companion to enjoy a ride while they wait for you in a room. Your other companion doesn’t have to line up again anymore. Just ask any USJ crew for more details.
Bring a water bottle.
It can get scorching hot throughout the summer season, so make sure to bring your own bottle. You can refill them for free at water fountains scattered around the park.
Download the Universal Studios Japan app.
By downloading the Universal Studios Japan app, you can check the wait times, use the map to navigate around, and get a Timed Entry eTicket!
Details
Address: 2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniversalStudiosJapan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/universal_studios_japan/
