Please don’t treat Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka as just another theme park where you can board the rides whenever and as many times as you want, as long as you pay for admission. The theme park is so popular that there may be more than one part of the park where you won’t be able to enter without an Area Timed Entry Ticket (エリア入場整理券). On a busy day, the waiting time to board the popular rides can easily exceed 60 minutes. So, if you want to enjoy USJ fully, below is what you need to know before visiting the theme park:
Universal Studios Japan Tips
Tips for Planning Your Visit to USJ
- The Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Japan
- What Time Does Universal Studios Japan Open, and When Should I Arrive at USJ?
- Universal Studios Osaka Closing Time
- Parking at Universal Studios Japan
- How to Get Into Universal Studios Japan Quickly
Tips for Universal Studios Japan Tickets and USJ Express Pass
- Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass (Universal Studios Japan Admission Tickets) Release Time?
- How to Purchase Universal Studios Japan Tickets (Studio Pass)
- Ensure You Have an Area Timed Entry Ticket If It Is Required for the Area You Want to Visit
- How to Obtain Your Timed Entry eTicket Using Universal Studios Japan Official App
- Universal Studios Japan Express Pass Necessity
- What If Universal Studios Japan Express Passes Are Sold Out
Tips for How to Get the Best Out of USJ
- The Tips on How to Enjoy the Super Nintendo World in USJ
- Universal Studios Japan Rainy Day Tips
- Tips for Visiting Universal Studios Japan With Toddlers
- Universal Studios Japan Stroller and Wheelchair Rental
- Bringing Food to Universal Studios Japan
- The Vegan-Friendly Universal Studios Japan Restaurants
Refer to HERE for a list of Universal Studios Japan rides. For the Universal Studios Japan map, refer to HERE.
Tip:
☛ Stay close to USJ the night before so you don’t need to get up too early the next day.
☛ If you don’t like switching hotels, stay in One of the Hotels Near Osaka or Umeda Station so you can take the direct train service to USJ.
☛ The official USJ app allows you to connect your device to the free Wi-Fi service, Universal Free Wi-Fi, when you are in the theme park.
The Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Japan
On average, USJ is less packed during the following part of the year. Due to shorter waiting times, these are the best times of the year to visit the theme park. The price of the USJ admission tickets (Studio Pass) and Universal Studios Japan Express Pass is also cheaper too!
Note that if special events are held during the periods listed below, USJ will be busy.
- Late January to mid-February
- Cold weather.
- Early to late April (before the Golden Week)
- USJ is less busy when all the students return to school.
- After the Golden Week in May
- The weekdays after the Golden Week usually have the least park visitors.
- June to mid-July
- Due to the rainy season, and shortly before Japan’s summer school break. However, you may still encounter students on school trips.
Tips:
☛ The best weekdays to visit USJ are from Tuesday to Thursday. But Tuesday can be busy if Monday is a public holiday.
☛ Monday can be as busy as the weekend if it is a substitute holiday.
☛ Refer to the HERE for USJ crowd calendar.
What Time Does Universal Studios Japan Open, and When Should I Arrive at USJ?
The question may sound stupid, as the information is readily available on Google and USJ’s website. However, it is a valid question when it comes to Universal Studios Japan Osaka, as the theme park typically opens 30 to 90 minutes before its official opening hours to reduce congestion at the entrance.
If you don’t plan on purchasing a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass but want to enter the Super Nintendo World, entering USJ at the same time the park opens is almost a must on a busy day.
If you plan to arrive at Universal Studios Japan early, refer to our ‘What Time Should I Arrive at Universal Studios Japan‘ article for more information to plan your day.
Universal Studios Osaka Closing Time
Universal Studios Osaka usually closes at 9:30 pm. From time to time, USJ closes late at 10 pm.
Parking at Universal Studios Japan
The best way to get to USJ Osaka is by public transportation. However, if you plan to arrive at the park by car, USJ has a car park with a capacity of 2,800 vehicles for its visitors.
While that sounds like a huge capacity, the car park is actually full by 11 am on a busy day. Temporary parking lots are usually available, but numbered tickets are issued when they are also fully parked.
How to Get Into Universal Studios Japan Quickly
To enter Universal Studios Japan Osaka as quickly as possible, purchase your Universal Studios Japan tickets (Studio Pass) in advance to save time waiting in line for admission tickets. The official website and Klook will issue a QR code that you can scan for entry.
Tip: Take a screenshot of your Studio Pass QR code so you can show it to the staff at the ticket gate without needing to log back in. The same applies to the USJ Express Pass if you have one.
It is recommended that you purchase your USJ Studio Pass at least two days in advance, especially if you plan to visit the park in March, May, October, and December. As there have been times when Universal Studios Japan tickets have sold out the night before, we recommend purchasing your Studio Pass once you know the date you want to visit USJ.
Baggage Inspections at Universal Studios Japan
All USJ guests are required to undergo a baggage inspection to ensure the safety of everyone. Once you are near the baggage checkpoint, please remove your bag from your shoulder and be prepared for the mandatory bag check. To save time, arrange the items in your bag in a way that is easier for the staff to inspect.
The staff will also check your handbag and pram. In fact, the pram usually takes the longest as it has so many pockets!
If you need a pram, it is recommended to rent it from the park for 1,100 yen per day.
Important: Ensure that none of the prohibited items are in your bag. For more information, refer to the Official Website.
Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass (Universal Studios Japan Admission Tickets) Release Time?
In general, Universal Studios Japan Express Passes can be purchased up to two months in advance.
How to Purchase Universal Studios Japan Tickets (Studio Pass)
You can purchase your Universal Studios Japan tickets online in advance or at a USJ ticket booth on the day. We highly recommend getting your tickets beforehand to better prepare yourself for the day.
As the USJ Studio Pass can’t be refunded once purchased, and resale is not permitted, you can buy your Universal Studios Japan tickets at the gate. The ticket booth at Universal Studios Japan opens 45 to 60 minutes before the park’s opening. Please don’t be the one who panics because the park has opened, but you still haven’t got your admission ticket!
It might be obvious already, but the queue for tickets and park entry is different.
Ensure You Have an Area Timed Entry Ticket If It Is Required for the Area You Want to Visit
Currently, an Area Timed Entry Ticket (エリア入場整理券) or an Advance Booking Timed Entry Ticket (エリア入場確約券) is required to enter the Super Nintendo World in the USJ. Apart from the Super Nintendo World, an Area Timed Entry Ticket might also be required if the staff determines that the area will be too crowded for the guests to enjoy. As you queue for entry, we recommend checking the official app to see if other areas also require an Area Timed Entry Ticket.
If an area is determined to be too crowded, Timed Entry Tickets will be handed out. You can also obtain the ticket via the official app. However, the number of Timed Entry Tickets is limited. Once they are all gone, the next type of entry ticket you can get is a lottery entry ticket (抽選券), which you can only use if you win (USJ calls it a Standby Entry Ticket).
The earlier you obtain the Timed Entry Ticket, the more time slots you can choose. Once you know that a Time Entry Ticket is required for an area you want to enter, get your Timed Entry Ticket as soon as possible.
Important: The time printed on the Timed Entry Ticket is when you can enter the area. You can stay in the area for as long as you want, but you can’t enter again once you leave.
Tips:
☛ Even children who don’t need a Universal Studios Japan ticket to enter USJ (under three years of age) can get an Area Timed Entry Ticket.
☛ If you want to enter the same area more than once, get a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass with an Advance Booking Timed Entry Ticket. On the day, arrive at USJ early for an additional Area Timed Entry Ticket.
How to Obtain Your Timed Entry eTicket Using Universal Studios Japan Official App
The most convenient method for getting an Area Timed Entry Ticket is through USJ’s app, as you won’t need to travel to the distribution points in USJ. To get an Area Timed Entry Ticket, you will first need to register your Studio (Park) Pass by scanning the QR code on your pass or uploading a photo of your pass.
This is done by tapping “Timed Entry eTickets” and choosing “Register Park Passes.” Once your Studio Pass is registered, you can acquire Timed Entry Ticket/Standby Entry Tickets under your app’s Timed Entry eTicket section. Any acquired tickets will also be shown there.
Tip: Only one person in your group needs to download the official USJ apps to get Timed Entry eTickets.
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass Necessity
Getting a USJ Express Pass is intuitive because it significantly reduces waiting time. However, depending on when you visit the amusement park and a few other factors, the express pass may or may not be necessary.
Refer to our
Refer to our Decoding the Necessity of the Express Pass at USJ article before clicking the purchase button!
Tip: If your child is three or younger, they don’t need a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass as long as you have one.
What If Universal Studios Japan Express Passes Are Sold Out
Because most people are aware of how packed Universal Studios Japan in Osaka can be, the USJ Express Pass is almost a must-buy despite its hefty price tag. In fact, on a busy day, the express passes are sold out soon after they are released. If there is no Express Pass left on the day you want to visit USJ, you might still be able to secure a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass before you visit the theme park.
Refer to HERE for more information!
The Tips on How to Enjoy the Super Nintendo World in USJ
The Super Nintendo World is the most packed area in USJ. Advance planning is recommended to avoid wasting your time and physical stamina. Because either an Area Timed Entry Ticket (エリア入場整理券) or an Advance Booking Timed Entry Ticket (エリア入場確約券) is required to enter the area, ensure that you purchase a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass that comes with an Advance Booking Timed Entry Ticket or arrive at USJ early (best to be before the park opens) to secure your Area Timed Entry Ticket.
Refer to our Super Nintendo World in USJ article for more information to plan your visit!
Universal Studios Japan Rainy Day Tips
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get a full or partial refund on the USJ admission ticket or USJ Express Pass if it rains on the day. Don’t think you are doomed, though! Think of the positive side. Universal Studios Japan Osaka will be less packed on a rainy day, as no one wants to get wet. This means shorter waiting time to board the rides you want and fewer strangers appearing in the background of your photos.
If you have purchased a USJ Express Pass and the Universal Studios attractions covered by your pass are closed for the day, talk to the staff. They will offer alternatives to compensate.
Do all outdoor USJ rides close when it is raining? No, the outdoor rides won’t be closed if it is only light rain. People can still get on the rides with raincoats or ponchos. However, please note that the attractions may be closed at any moment if the weather worsens.
The jet coaster rides, The Flying Dinosaur (ザ・フライング・ダイナソー), Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop (ハリウッド・ドリーム・ザ・ライド ～バックドロップ～), and Hollywood Dream – The Ride (ハリウッド・ドリーム・ザ・ライド), are the ones that would be the most affected by the weather. They are usually closed when the wind is strong, in addition to heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Indoor rides may also be closed during thunderstorms, as a power outage could occur if the thunder strikes power supply facilities.
Tips:
☛ While shows and parades might be canceled due to bad weather, rainy-day greetings might still be on. So please check with the staff if you are interested in that.
☛ The indoor attractions might also be affected by thunderstorms. If a thunderstorm is predicted for the day you visit USJ, please plan your day and head to the rides you want to visit the most first.
The Recommended Items to Bring to USJ on a Rainy Day
- Folding umbrella
- Raincoat or poncho
- Towels
- Plastic bags
- Socks and/or shoe covers
- a Light jacket or cardigan to keep you warm
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Tips for Visiting Universal Studios Japan With Toddlers
As you may already know, USJ is less suitable for young children compared to Tokyo Disneyland. But that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the theme park at all. There are still a couple of rides they can enjoy! The important thing is to plan the day.
Universal Wonderland (ユニバーサル・ワンダーランド) is the part of USJ most suitable for toddlers. There is a full indoor playground with a ball pool and play equipment for young children as well. As it is indoors, you don’t have to worry about wet weather or the summer heat. Moreover, Universal Studios attractions in the area, such as the merry-go-round, can be enjoyed with your kid sitting on your lap!
If your children can sit up on their own, you can even bring them to Jaws (ジョーズ). The height restriction is that another guest must accompany guests under 122 cm. While they might get scared, it can be another unforgettable memory.
When they are a little bit taller than 92cm, Yoshi’s Adventure (ヨッシー・アドベンチャー) is a ride they will enjoy.
Tip: Utilize the single rider line so that one of you can still enjoy the thrilling rides in USJ. The Child Switch is another considerate service for parents.
Of course, the shows and parades at Universal Studios Japan will be the highlights of the day. Your children will surely be excited to see their favorite characters walk out from the screen!
Lastly, as children are full of energy when they are awake (and most of them become even more impatient), we highly recommend purchasing the USJ Express Pass so that they won’t get tired from waiting in constant queues. However, please note the height restrictions of the rides and choose your pass carefully.
Tip: Refer to HERE for the useful services and facilities for guests with children at USJ.
Universal Studios Japan Stroller and Wheelchair Rental
Strollers and wheelchairs can be rented from the Wheelchair/Stroller Rental area located to the right of the park entrance. You will need to enter USJ before you can rent a wheelchair or a stroller.
- Wheelchairs can be rented for 500 yen each at USJ.
- Refer to HERE for a picture of the wheelchairs available for rent at USJ.
- Strollers can be rented for 1,100 yen each at USJ.
- The strollers rentable at USJ are meant for children ages 1 month to 48 months.
Bringing Food to Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan only allows guests to bring food into the park if they have a food allergy or if the park does not have a readily available menu that can cater to their diet.
The Vegan-Friendly Universal Studios Japan Restaurants
Fortunately, a couple of restaurants/cafes in USJ that are vegan and vegetarian-friendly. There is even a Japanese option available at a Universal Studios restaurant!
- New York Area
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Jurassic Park
Note that the restaurants we have listed above are as of the time of writing this article. It is best to confirm your options again using the Official Website before your visit.
Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort on the Same Trip? Here Are Some Tips!
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the three main cities that many international tourists visit when they come to Japan. Instead of Universal Studios, Tokyo has Tokyo Disney Resort. And yes, it is just as popular as Universal Studios Japan, if not more!
So if you are tempted to visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka on your upcoming Japan trip, we have some tips in our The Tips I Wish I Had Known Before Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort article to make your trip smoother and more pleasant!
