8 tricks to conquering Universal Studios Japan
How to fast-track queues at the top rides, save money, and get the most out of your day at Universal Studios Japan.
- July 2019
Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM, Flying Dinosaur, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man … there are many good reasons why Universal Studios Japan is one of the most popular theme parks in the world. But make the mistake of going without a plan, and you’re going to find yourself spending most of your time stuck in the infamously long queues.
This comprehensive guide is packed with insider tips on how to maximise your day at Universal Studios Japan. And because sharing is caring, we’ve even thrown in an exclusive discount off your first purchase on Klook, enjoy!
1. Get your ticket online
Visitors make the mistake of thinking they can beat the queues by heading to Universal Studios Japan early to get tickets. The truth is, people start waiting in line at the ticket booths from as early as 7am even though the park opens at 9am.
There’s no bigger buzz kill than starting the day getting stuck in a line. Buy a Universal Studios Japan 1 Day E-ticket opens in new window before or during your trip via official ticketing partner Klook. You pay the same amount as you would at the gate, and the admission ticket is valid for six months so you have the flexibility of going whenever you want.
2. Fast-track entry to the top attractions
Universal Studios Japan is the fourth most popular theme park in the world. Plus, summer is peak season so waiting times can range from two to five hours for each ride.
Do yourself a favour and get a Universal Express Pass. This ticket shortens your queue time to 20 to 30 minutes. Klook offers Express Pass 4 opens in new window and Express Pass 7, which give you first dibs on up to four and seven rides respectively.
Just be sure to get your Universal Express Pass opens in new window at least a week before arrival — a limited number of tickets are released each day and they sell out fast.
Quote “JSAKLOOK5” to get USD $5 off when you book an activity with Klook. Applicable for first-time users for one-time use only. Terms and conditions apply.
3. Avoid going on Mondays and Tuesdays
The best days to visit are Wednesdays and Thursdays. Most tourists are aware that weekends are jam-packed, but few know that Japanese schools organise excursions to Universal Studios Japan on Mondays and Tuesdays.
4. Don’t obsess over taking all the rides
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of checking out all the rides, especially if it’s your first time to the theme park. But if you’re too busy ticking rides off your bucket list, you’ll end up missing out on the details and decor, which are just as much a part of the entire experience.
For example, look out for Universal Studios Japan staff wearing fanny packs — they are likely to carry adorable stickers, which they give out for free if you ask. Potterheads should definitely head to the toilets inside the Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM — a surprise all fans will recognise awaits.
5. Bring your passport along
If you spend at least JPY ¥5,000 on souvenirs or confectionary, you can get up to 5.8% in tax refunds. Just head to the Tax Refund Counter located in Studio Gift West to enjoy the savings.
6. Plan your meals
Don’t make the mistake of just hitting the first food spot you see at Universal Studios Japan. Here are three seasonal offerings not to miss.
Butterbeer at Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM
Every wizard’s favourite beverage, Butterbeer, is available all year round but come summer, a frozen variety is available. And now, it even comes as an ice cream flavour.
Universal Cool Japan 2019 food
From Attack on Titan-inspired churros to Godzilla vs. Evangelion drinks and Sailor Moon meal sets and parfaits, there’s plenty of ’gram-worthy moments (and feasting) to be had.
Minions Ice Cream Sandwich at Delicious Me!
While the Minions Ice Cream Sandwich is available all year round (Banana Milk & Fruit is a classic), keep an eye out for limited-edition flavours.
7. Check out Universal Cool Japan
Anime fans from all around the world flock to Universal Studios Japan for this highly anticipated annual event. Here are three highlights to check out before the event ends on August 25.
Godzilla vs. Evangelion The Real 4-D
In this crossover happening only at Universal Studios Japan, the King of the Monsters will battle giant bio-robot Evangelion. It’s a face-off of epic proportions, and you have a front-row seat.
Attack on Titan: The Real
Fans of this popular anime will be rewarded with an immersive experience. On top of the fast-paced 4D show, the towering and detailed statues also make for great photo ops.
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Miracle 4D - Moon Palace Edition
Sailor Moon was part of Universal Cool Japan 2018. This year’s version sees an interactive 4D show with a new storyline featuring all 10 Sailor Guardians.
8. Stay till night falls
Stay on for these two events that happen only after sunset.
HogwartsTM Magical Celebration
This light show at HogwartsTM castle uses state-of-the-art technology to deliver a spectacular display of the four HogwartsTM houses.
Universal Spectacle Night Parade
End your day on a high as characters from Harry Potter, Minions, Transformers and Jurassic World come together in this exuberant street parade.
Plan your holiday effortlessly with Klook
Get the most out of your holiday in Osaka (or in over 270 other countries) with Klook. With over 100,000 travel experiences, you can get everything from transportation to tickets to top attractions and cool local activities sorted on one platform. Make well-informed decisions on what to do on your holiday by reading user reviews, and get instant confirmation upon booking. Easy-peasy.
Quote “JSAKLOOK5” to get USD $5 off when you book an activity with Klook. Applicable for first-time users for one-time use only. Terms and conditions apply.