Universal Studios Japan Blew My Mind: Honest Review & Why It’s Worth It!

I wasn’t expecting much after all, I’ve been to another Universal Studios before. But Universal Studios Japan in Osaka completely blew my mind. It’s massive, full of nostalgia, and blends childhood joy with adult appreciation so beautifully.

From 4D anime shows to merch stores dedicated to Mario and Hello Kitty, from Doraemon dreams to Kuromi dance battles it was truly a day of 15,000 steps and 100% joy.

What Is Universal Studios Japan?

Universal Studios Japan (USJ), located in Osaka, is one of Asia’s most iconic theme parks. Operated by NBCUniversal, it brings to life blockbuster franchises through immersive attractions, shows, and entertainment zones from Harry Potter and Jurassic Park to Super Nintendo World, Minions, and Hello Kitty.

Universal Studios Japan Tickets: Prices, Types & Where to Buy

Ticket Types:

• 1-Day Studio Pass: Approx. ¥8,600–¥9,800 (₹4,800–₹5,500)
• 2-Day Studio Pass: Approx. ¥16,300–¥17,800
• Express Pass (Optional): ¥5,000–¥15,000 depending on crowd & rides

Where to Book:

• Official site: Universal Studios Japan
• Resellers like Klook, KKDay, and GetYourGuide often offer combo discounts, early entry, or language-friendly guides.

Pro Tip: Book at least a week in advance tickets sell out during weekends, public holidays, and school vacations.

How to Reach Universal Studios Osaka?

We travelled by car but other options are also available like:

• From Osaka Station: Take the JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City Station (~15 minutes).
• From Kyoto/Nara: Take the Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka, then follow the above route.
• By Car: Paid parking is available at the park (starts at ¥2,500/day).

Once you reach Universal City Station, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the main entrance!

Super Nintendo World: Aesthetic Heaven, Ride Meh

The Super Nintendo World was the most hyped attraction, and the aesthetics definitely lived up to it. It felt like stepping inside a video game. However, the ride while fun wasn’t as exciting as I imagined.

The line was almost 2 hours long.
But I didn’t mind much I had developed this fun habit in Japan of sitting on roads whenever I got tired, and that’s exactly what I did here too. Just plopped down wherever I could and took it all in.

Merch Stores Everywhere: Mario, Hello Kitty, and Doraemon Dreams

The merch stores here are a dream come true. As someone who was obsessed with Doraemon growing up, I was beyond excited to explore their merch.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the gadget I wanted but I ended up buying Mario merch instead.
If you’re wondering where I finally found my Doraemon gadget, check out my full Japan Shopping Haul blog.

Also, can we talk about how popcorn is sold in crossbody bags?
From Hello Kitty bags to Doraemon buckets, this was the cutest thing ever. I did try the popcorn at Universal Studios but missed trying it at Disney Sea.

Finding Vegetarian Food at Universal Studios Japan

Finding vegetarian or vegan food in theme parks can be tough but Universal Studios Japan is surprisingly accommodating.

I tried the falafel with tomato salsa at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, and it was absolutely delicious. We also had Baskin Robbins ice cream even that was delightful

Vegetarian/Vegan restaurants at the Universal Studio Japan:

Here is the image of all the restaurants serving vegetarian/vegan food:

And speaking of delightful discoveries for foodies in Japan, my culinary adventures extended beyond sit-down meals to even convenient finds at places like 7 Eleven in Japan. If you’re also curious about my personal journey into the world of authentic matcha in Japan, from traditional ceremonies to modern cafes, you’ll find all my insights in a separate blog post!

Navigation, Facilities & Wi-Fi: Universal Beats DisneySea

Let me be honest Universal Studios Japan nailed the basics.

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the park (unlike DisneySea)
• Easy-to-use maps and navigation boards
• Clean, beautifully maintained washrooms in Japan. There’s even a Hello Kitty-themed pink washroom just for women. I didn’t want to leave!

Disney Sea lacked these details, and I appreciated how seamless the Universal experience was in comparison.

Rides & Attractions: So Much More Than Just Thrills!

Honestly, while I experienced a few, I was so caught up in the incredible atmosphere and immersive zones that the specific names of some rides almost blurred. The real magic for me was exploring the themed worlds and soaking in every detail. I probably hopped on 2-3 rides, but the shows and sheer joy of being there were the true highlights.

However, for those of you planning your USJ adventure and looking to hit the most talked-about attractions, here are the major ones you absolutely can’t miss, along with some personal notes:

Super Nintendo World Must-Ride:

• Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge: This is the flagship ride inside Super Nintendo World, and the one I mentioned having such a long wait for. It’s an augmented reality (AR) experience where you don Mario’s cap and race through iconic Mario Kart courses. While the line was long, the immersive theming and interactive AR elements were incredibly clever. It truly feels like you’re racing through a video game, even if it wasn’t the most intense “thrill” ride.

Other Iconic & Thrilling Rides:

• Hollywood Dream – This is a fantastic rollercoaster with a twist! What makes it unique is that you can choose your own soundtrack from a selection of pop hits as you ride. It’s a smooth yet exhilarating experience as you soar over the park. There’s also a “Hollywood Dream The Ride Backdrop version where you ride backwards!
• The Flying Dinosaur: If you’re a thrill-seeker, this one’s for you! Located in the Jurassic Park area, this flying coaster literally straps you in face down, mimicking the feeling of being carried off by a Pteranodon. It’s incredibly intense with huge drops and inversions definitely not for the faint of heart, and one I personally opted to admire from the ground!
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Get ready for chaos with the Minions! This is a hilarious 4D simulator ride that shrinks you down to Minion size for a wild adventure. It’s incredibly cute, full of laughs, and perfect for families or anyone who loves the Minions’ silly antics. The visuals and motion effects are top-notch.
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man (The Ride 4K3D): Even though it’s been around for a while, this award winning ride is still a masterpiece. It’s a dark ride combined with 3D projections and motion simulation, putting you right in the middle of an epic battle with Spider-Man. The technology and seamless transitions are truly impressive, making it feel like you’re swinging through the city with him.

I personally spent more time exploring the incredibly detailed themed zones, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, and catching the amazing live shows like “Kuromify the World.” Sometimes, the best “ride” is just soaking in every corner of these brilliantly designed worlds!

Live Shows: Kuromify the World—What a Spectacle!

The highlight of my day? A live show featuring Kuromi and Cinnamoroll. It was called Kuromify the World, and I kid you not every person in the audience knew every lyric and every move.

Even adults in Japan love cartoons unapologetically. It was so refreshing and heartwarming to see. I stood there thinking, “This is what joy looks like.”

Outfit to wear at Universal Studio Japan

Since my DisneySea outfit was inspired by Ariel, I had to do something fun for Universal too. So, I wore a blue short jumpsuit from Zara, inspired by Doraemon.

Pairing it with comfortable sneakers was the smartest decision because trust me, your feet will thank you after those 15,000 steps.

Planning your outfits for Japan? I’ve got you covered with my detailed guide on what to wear in Japan

Universal Studios Japan vs DisneySea: What Stood Out?

While it’s unfair to compare the two, if you’re visiting Japan, DisneySea is a must-visit simply because it’s the only one of its kind in the world. The storytelling, design, and water-based themes make it a unique experience globally.

That said, the vibe at Universal Studios Japan is simply immaculate. It hits differently from iconic character zones like Super Nintendo World to the unexpected thrill of walking into a pink Hello Kitty washroom. There’s a sense of nostalgia and fun that truly connects with adults too. I was genuinely surprised by how engaged and expressive the Japanese audience was during the live Kuromi and Cinnamoroll show singing, dancing, and living the moment!

If you’re torn between the two, just remember: DisneySea is rare, but Universal Studios Japan is electric both offer experiences worth making space for in your itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Was Universal Studios Japan Worth It?

Absolutely, a resounding yes! Universal Studios Japan completely exceeded my expectations. From the vibrant energy of Super Nintendo World to the unexpected charm of finding a pure vegetarian burger, every detail contributed to an unforgettable day.

If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, or just looking for that unique blend of childhood dreams and adult thrills, put Universal Studios Japan at the very top of your list. It’s more than just a park; it’s an immersive experience that leaves you feeling 100% joyful.