Attractions and nature

Universal Studios Japan — Tickets, Super Nintendo World and Express Pass

Updated: 2026-10-25 · 9 min read

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Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka is one of the most popular theme parks in the world, and in recent years it has become a destination in its own right thanks to Super Nintendo World: a Mario world where you walk inside the game, and since late 2024 a Donkey Kong area too. Alongside it are the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Minions and rides from well-known films.

This guide explains how to buy tickets, how to secure entry to the Nintendo area, when an Express Pass is worth the money, and how to combine the day with Osaka.

What’s in the park

Super Nintendo World — a Mario world with an augmented-reality Mario Kart ride, interactive “power-up” games and a Donkey Kong area with a roller coaster. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade, Hogwarts Castle and the flagship ride. Minion Park, Jurassic Park and more areas from well-known films. For little ones there is Universal Wonderland, an area with gentle rides and characters like Snoopy and Hello Kitty.

Tickets and prices in 2026

The price changes by date. A one-day ticket (1-Day Studio Pass) for adults aged 12–64 costs about ¥8,400–9,400 (≈ $56–63), for children aged 4–11 about ¥5,400–6,300 (≈ $36–42), with a reduced price for 65 and over. Under-4s enter free. Tickets are for a specific date, and advance prices on the official site are usually cheaper.

Universal Studios Japan tickets

Getting into Super Nintendo World

On busy days, which is most days, entry to the area runs on set times. There are two ways in:

Free — after entering the park, request a timed entry ticket (Area Timed Entry) in the official USJ app. Since January 2026 you can only get it through the app. On busy days the tickets run out early, so enter at opening and request it straight away. Paid — an Express Pass that includes guaranteed area entry. Not every Express Pass includes it, and not all include the Donkey Kong ride, so check the description before you buy.

Express Pass — when it’s worth it

An Express Pass lets you skip the standby queue on a set number of rides (4 or 7, depending on the type). The price changes by day, from about ¥10,800 (≈ $72) for the basic type on quiet days to more than ¥20,000 for the full ones. On a weekend or holiday, when queues reach two hours, it turns an exhausting day into an enjoyable one. On busy dates it sells out weeks ahead.

Universal Express Pass

With kids

The park suits children from about 4–5, and Universal Wonderland works for younger ones too. In Super Nintendo World kids especially love the Power-Up Band, which lets them collect coins and play the area’s games. Check the minimum height for the big rides in advance. More tips in the Japan with kids guide.

Getting there and where to stay

From Osaka Station take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo, then the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City, about 15 minutes in total. The ride is covered by the JR Pass. There are plenty of hotels around the station, which let you reach the gate before opening without stress.

Hotels near Universal Studios

Planning the day

Be at the gate at least 45 minutes before opening, and request Nintendo entry in the app right away. Start with the most popular ride not covered by your Express Pass. Check the opening hours for your date, since they vary. And in summer, plan an air-conditioned break at midday.

Food and souvenirs

Park food is part of the experience: Kinopio’s Cafe in Super Nintendo World serves Mario-themed dishes, and in Hogsmeade you can drink Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks. Lunchtime food queues are long, so eat early or late. Buy Nintendo souvenirs early in the day, since the shops fill up towards evening.

Universal or Disney?

If you have time for only one park: Universal for fans of Mario, Harry Potter and thrill rides, and Tokyo Disney for young children and anyone after a magical atmosphere and parades. Both cost about the same, and both need tickets bought in advance. If you are staying in Osaka, you can end the day in Dotonbori, about 25 minutes by train.

From here: read the Osaka guide, taste Osaka’s street food, or compare with Tokyo Disney.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a Universal Studios Japan ticket?

The price changes by date. An adult one-day ticket (12–64) is about ¥8,400–9,400 (≈ $56–63), a child aged 4–11 about ¥5,400–6,300 (≈ $36–42), and under-4s enter free.

How do you get into Super Nintendo World?

On busy days entry to the area is timed. The free way is a timed entry ticket you claim in the official USJ app after entering the park. The guaranteed way is an Express Pass that includes area entry.

Is an Express Pass worth the money?

On busy days, almost always. It saves hours of queuing and sometimes guarantees Super Nintendo World entry. The price changes by day, from about ¥10,800 (≈ $72) upwards, and it sells out in advance on busy dates.

How long does it take to get there from Osaka?

About 15 minutes from Osaka Station: the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo, then the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City, a few minutes' walk from the gate.