The Ultimate Universal Studios Japan (USJ) Anniversary Guide 2026

Table of Contents 

• Anniversary-Specific Updates
• Park Zones: What’s Changing and What’s Staying the Same
• Hollywood: Your USJ Adventure Begins Here
• New York: Osaka’s Small Slice of the Big Apple
• San Francisco: A Port Town Brought to Life
• WaterWorld: USJ’s Most Popular Live Show
• Amity Village: Nautical Adventure and Nostalgic Thrills
• Jurassic Park: Adventure in a Zone Lost in Time
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Real Magic Around Every Corner
• Super Nintendo World: Exploring the Mushroom Kingdom and Beyond
• Minion Park: Light Chaos and Laughs for Little Travellers
• Universal Wonderland: Magical Fun for the Whole Family
• Final Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Here are a few key points that will be covered in this article: 

• Universal Studios Japan open since 2001 in Osaka, is Asia’s most visited theme park. 

• USJ is celebrating its 25th anniversary from March 2026 through to March 2027. 

• The park will hold many limited-time special events throughout the upcoming year, to commemorate the anniversary. 

• This guide aims to help take the guesswork out of planning your visit. 

• Each section will briefly explain what changes are expected park-wide and within each of USJ’s iconic zones. 

Visiting USJ During the Park's Anniversary: What Travellers Need to Know 

Planning a trip to Osaka and wondering which attractions deserve a spot on your itinerary? 
Set aside a day for Universal Studios Japan (USJ), where beloved movies and video games spring to life in one of Japan’s most exciting and immersive theme parks. 

Located just outside central Osaka, USJ holds the title of being the most visited theme park in Asia, with its 10 unique zones bringing together iconic franchises, from Jurassic Park and JAWS to Harry Potter and Super Mario, in spectacularly themed environments packed with thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and unforgettable encounters. The park is accessible via the Osaka Loop Line and JR Yumesaki Line. The park opened on March 31, 2001, and is the most visited theme park in Asia. 

This guide will take the guesswork out of your visit and share what changes to expect park-wide and inside each of USJ’s iconic zones. Keep in mind that opening hours, ticket prices, and event schedules can vary by date, so it’s important to check these details when planning your trip. 

Anniversary-Specific Updates

Universal Cool Japan 2026 Event 

Not only is 2026 USJ’s 25th anniversary, but it’s also the 10th anniversary of Universal Cool Japan, a seasonal showcase that brings local fan-favourite franchises to USJ.

This year’s line-up includes: 

MONSTER HUNTER WILDS: Wudwud Feast (Nov 19, 2025 to May 17, 2026) 

JUJUTSU KAISEN: The Real 4-D — Clock Tower of Recurrence (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026) 

JUJUTSU KAISEN × Story Ride: The Cursed Spirit Train (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026) 

Detective Conan: The Escape - Prologue to the Highway (Jan 30 to Jun 30, 2026). One of the attractions belonging to “Detective Conan World,” this experience lets you solve cases in themed escape rooms. A separate ticket is required to participate. 

Detective Conan x Story Ride: Auto-Drive Gone Rogue (Jan 30 to Jun 30, 2026) 

Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant (Jan 30 to Jun 30, 2026). A separate ticket is required to participate. 

Peril at the Masquerade dinner show (Jan 30 to Jun 30, 2026). Based on Keigo Higashino's Masquerade series, this event offers a unique blend of dining and theatrical suspense.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Story Walk (May 30, 2026 to Jan 11, 2027). An immersive, walk-through attraction that replicates the world of the series, featuring interactive elements and environmental recreations for a limited time. 

Many of these attractions feature interactive elements, such as solving mysteries or participating in story-based activities, enhancing visitor engagement and immersion.

For further details and updates, please check USJ’s official Universal Cool Japan 2026 webpage. 

25th Anniversary “Discover U!!!” Event 

In addition to the various attractions introduced by Universal Cool Japan 2026, the 25th anniversary is bringing about its “Discover U!!!” event, a jam-packed year-long event program designed for visitors to celebrate the park’s history, with parades, car collection displays, original food, and merchandise all being rolled out through March 4, 2026, to March 30, 2027. Many of these special attractions and experiences are available for a limited time only, so don’t miss out on the exclusive “NO LIMIT!” fun during this anniversary period. 

To make way for the rollout of these anniversary-inspired attractions, the following long-established rides and experiences will be discontinued (as of April 2026): 

• Shrek 4-D Adventure (closed Jan 2026) 

• Sesame Street 4-D Movie Magic (closed Jan 2026) 

• Sesame Street Fun World children’s area (scheduled to close May 10, 2026) 

*Please check for prior notice of any operational changes or closures before your visit, as attractions may be updated or discontinued. 

The best part of these new and updated attractions is that they aren’t area-specific – you can encounter them all throughout the park’s various zones, all of which have their own features you’re sure to love. Here’s a quick look at each zone’s current highlights that you won’t want to miss… 

Park Zones: What’s Changing and What’s Staying the Same

1. Hollywood: Your USJ Adventure Begins Here

Your day naturally starts in the Hollywood zone, the park’s main entranceway thoroughfare, where a vast range of permanent and limited-time-only attractions, souvenir stores, eateries, and photo spots can be found. The Hollywood zone sets the stage for the fun that awaits across the park’s other zones.

Main Attractions: 

Space Fantasy CLUB ZEDD REMIX (Jan 30 to Aug 17, 2026): a high-energy indoor spinning coaster that zips you through starfields to the tune of German DJ Zedd’s greatest dance hits. 

JUJUTSU KAISEN: The Real 4-D — Clock Tower of Recurrence (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. 

JUJUTSU KAISEN × Story Ride: The Cursed Spirit Train (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. 

Detective Conan: The Escape - Prologue to the Highway at Stage 18 (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. A separate ticket is required to participate. 

Detective Conan x Story Ride: Auto-Drive Gone Rogue at Hollywood Dream - The Ride (Jan 30 to Aug 18, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. 

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Story Walk (May 30 2026, to Jan 11, 2027): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. 

Peril at the Masquerade dinner show (Jan 30 to Jun 30, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction at Peacock Theatre. 

The Power of Rock: U Rock!: a limited-time show celebrating the park’s 25th anniversary. 

Universal Monsters Live: Rock and Roll Show 

Wicked: The Witches of Oz (Show) 

Playing with Curious George (Show) 

2. New York: Osaka’s Small Slice of the Big Apple

Despite its close proximity to the Hollywood Zone, the New York zone’s energy greatly shifts, with this being partly due to how convincingly it recreates the atmosphere and architecture of a scene ripped straight from a 1930s downtown Manhattan neighbourhood.

The area is designed with facades of brick rowhouses, art deco-style details, and tall structures that really make you feel like you’re strolling through Fifth Avenue. There’s a rich sense of urban cinema here, part glamorous movie set, part pulsing big-city street, with stores and shows that feed into this feeling. 

Main Attractions: 

Festival In The Park (Carnival games) 

Kuromi Live: Discover Me, Discover U!!! (Show) 

The Ultimate Blues Bash (Show)

3. San Francisco: A Port Town Brought to Life

Just a short walk further into the park, the San Francisco zone has a distinctly different vibe from the two pre-mentioned zones; one modelled after the iconic American port city with its cable-car accents, Chinatown-inspired eateries, and historic harbour ambience. Enjoy a bite to eat and recharge here before setting out to the park’s busier zones. 

Among the themed dining options, Lombard's Landing stands out as a notable restaurant known for immersive experiences, including special events like the Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant, which adds an extra layer of entertainment and storytelling to your visit. 

Main Attractions: 

Lombard’s Landing - Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant (Jan 30 to Jun 30 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction. A separate ticket is required to participate. 

Wharf Cafe (Restaurant) 

The Dragon’s Pearl (Restaurant) 

4. WaterWorld: USJ’s Most Popular Live Show

Though not exactly like its neighbouring zones, the WaterWorld section of the park is home to the park’s most dynamic live stunt show entertainment experience based on the post-apocalyptic aquatic world shown in the 1995 film of the same name. Originally developed at Universal Parks in the United States and later adapted for Japan, this show’s popularity continues to dominate, with an estimated 100,000,000+ park guests having experienced it since its debut in 1995. 

With no changes planned for this area of the park during the park’s anniversary celebrations, you can expect the same high-energy show that has continued to wow visitors for decades. 

*Unlike traditional rides, WaterWorld’s show has no virtual queue, so it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid the on-time crowd and secure a top viewing spot, especially during peak seasons.

5. Amity Village: Nautical Adventure and Nostalgic Thrills

Located across from the entrance to WaterWorld, the park’s Amity Village zone transports you to a much smaller, quieter fishing town, specifically the fictional Amity Island from the classic blockbuster 1975 film, Jaws. 

Unlike many other rides in the park that rely on futuristic technology or cutting-edge effects, Jaws leans into practical effects and storytelling. The attraction’s shark animatronics emerge with all the suspense and excitement that have delighted audiences for decades. 

In addition to the ride, Amity Village offers themed eateries like the Amity Landing Restaurant, where you can enjoy seafood-inspired fare and relaxed dining that complements the seaside setting, especially fun if you’re looking to take a longer break or enjoy a coastal-style meal without leaving the thematic fun behind. 

Main Attractions: 

JAWS boat ride (Permanent): a boat ride that has riders come face-to-face with the film’s titular gigantic shark. 

Amity Boardwalk Games (Carnival games)

6. Jurassic Park: Adventure in a Zone Lost in Time

Where else to place the Jurassic Park zone if not next to the ocean’s biggest predator? 
In line with the theme of film’s ravenous predators, the Jurassic Park zone is perfect for those craving adventurous rides with prehistoric twists inspired by the classic blockbuster franchise. 

Amongst its pre-established attractions, the Jurassic Park zone will contain several anniversary year-specific changes set to elevate the zone’s atmosphere throughout 2026 and early 2027. 

Main Attractions: 

Jurassic Park – The Ride (Permanent ride): classic raft-ride adventure - be prepared for big splashes, roars, and heart-pounding moments as you float through this lush jungle landscape. 

The Flying Dinosaur (Permanent ride): one of USJ’s most intense coasters, riders are suspended face-down, soaring through twists, loops, and high-speed manoeuvres. (Guests must be between 132 and 198 cm tall to ride) 

Jurassic World Journey (Mar 4 to Aug 31, 2026): a limited-time event consisting of interwoven activities, including dinosaur encounters, mission walks, and stamp collecting. 

MONSTER HUNTER WILDS: Wudwud Feast (Nov 19, 2025 to May 17, 2026): a limited-time Universal Cool Japan attraction at Lost World Restaurant.

7. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Real Magic Around Every Corner

The park’s Harry Potter zone, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, opened on July 15, 2014 and captures the mystery and magic of the beloved films with remarkable attention to detail, including scenes containing stores, an owl post, the Hogwarts Express train, the Weasleys’ car, and much more across the snow-dusted Hogsmeade Village. Throughout the environment, magical surprises are waiting to be uncovered, with interactive elements such as spell locations that can be activated by purchasable interactive wands. 

*Although wands can be purchased at multiple locations across the park, this zone's carts and stores, such as Ollivanders, hold the most design variations, so we recommend waiting and buying straight from the source. 

As of April 2026, there are no seasonal updates scheduled for this zone, but it’s home to the following highlights that are a must-see for diehard Potterheads and casual fans alike. 

Main Attractions: 

Hogwarts Castle (Permanent ride): located at the very end of the zone, and more than just a photo op, with intricate themed rooms and a ride located inside. 

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (Permanent ride): sends riders soaring across the Hogwarts grounds, dodging dragons and Dementors alongside Harry, Hermione, Ron, and other familiar faces. 

Flight of the Hippogriff (Permanent ride): a coaster ride inspired by Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures class. *Riders must be between 122 and 195 cm tall. 

Frog Choir (Show) 

Hippogriff Magical Lesson (Show) 

Meet the Hogsmeade Magical Creatures (Show) 

Triwizard Spirit Rally (Show) 

Ollivanders Wand Ceremony (Show) 

Wand magic interactive spell locations (Experience)

8. Super Nintendo World: Exploring the Mushroom Kingdom and Beyond

Across the way from the wizarding world is a new kind of magic to discover. Much like the park’s Harry Potter zone, Super Nintendo World's environment is filled with interactive moments that bring its landscape to life. Throughout the area, visitors can take part in interactive challenges using Power-Up Bands, wearable wristbands available for purchase, allowing guests to collect digital coins and keys, track their progress, and participate in mini-games across the world, turning the entire zone into a real-life video game. 

Like some of the other film or character-specific zones, there are no seasonal updates scheduled for this zone (as of April 2026), but it still contains some of the park’s newest attractions, with some being installed as recently as late 2024. Here is a definitive list for the zone's latest and greatest. 

Main Attractions: 

Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge (Permanent ride): a seated ride that places you directly inside the popular racing game, where players don augmented reality goggles that blend the physical sets with digital gameplay. 

Yoshi’s Adventure (Permanent ride): a gentle journey through the colourful Mushroom Kingdom, riding on the back of a friendly Yoshi, passing playful scenes and enjoying charming views of the zone from above. 

Mine Cart Madness (Permanent ride): a roller-coaster that brings the adventurous spirit of the titular character’s world to life with vibrant scenery, recreating the thrilling mine-cart sequences from the series. 

Character meet and greets (Permanent ride): hugs and photo opportunities with beloved characters Mario & Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, and Donkey Kong. 

Power-Up Band Key Challenges (Permanent ride): allow guests to take part in interactive challenges such as collecting virtual coins, activating interactive mini-games of the zone’s environment, and tracking their progress, turning the entire zone into a real-life video game.

9. Minion Park: Light Chaos and Laughs for Little Travellers

Next up is Minion Park, a cheerful area brimming with playful mayhem brewed by everyone’s favourite yellow mischief makers. Here, you can join the lovable Minions in their dastardly deeds across multiple rides and interactive attractions that are suitable for all ages.

Although no limited-time events are currently scheduled, this zone remains home to the park's cheekiest attractions. 

Main Attractions: 

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem (Permanent ride): a 3D motion simulator that takes you on a wild, hilarious adventure with Gru and his crew. 

Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast (Permanent ride): an interactive ride where you aim at targets in a playful battle of Minion chaos, bridging classic urban styling with newer pop-culture fun. 

Freeze Ray Sliders (Permanent ride): the minions’ crazy antics may lead to riders getting a little bit wet, so beware!) 

Banana Cabana (carnival game-style attraction) 

Space Killer (carnival game-style attraction) 

Minion’s Greeting (Photo and meet and greet opportunity)

10. Universal Wonderland: Magical Fun for the Whole Family

Ideal for younger kids or those who want a gentler pace, Universal Wonderland blends beloved characters like Hello Kitty, Elmo, Snoopy, and many more across a sprawling, whimsical area. Here, you’ll find playful rides, interactive spaces, and sweet treats perfect for fans of these beloved characters. 

*Due to the upcoming discontinuation of multiple attractions within this zone (scheduled for May 10, 2026), we recommend double-checking USJ’s official attraction list webpage for any updates or changes in operation prior to visiting. 

Main Attractions: 

Hello Kitty’s Cupcake Dream (Permanent ride): a colourful spinning teacups-style ride where guests sit in giant cupcakes that rotate to music and can be spun faster using a steering wheel. 

Hello Kitty’s Ribbon Collection (Show): an interactive Hello Kitty studio experience featuring playful fashion-themed sets, a high-heel slide, and a photo opportunity with Hello Kitty. 

Moppy’s Lucky Dance Party (Show): a lively indoor dance party where kids dance along to music with a DJ and may meet Moppy in a vibrant, interactive play space. 

Moppy’s Balloon Trip (Permanent ride): a gentle hot-air balloon ride that lifts guests into the air while the gondola spins when they turn a handle. 

Snoopy Studios: a themed indoor area celebrating the PEANUTS world with photo spots, character encounters, and family-friendly attractions. 

Snoopy’s Flying Ace Adventure (Permanent ride): a family-friendly indoor coaster where riders board Snoopy’s red-roofed doghouse and race through the Flying Ace story, chasing the Red Baron. 

Sesame Street children’s rides & play areas (Scheduled to close May 10, 2026): a collection of kid-focused rides and play zones in Sesame Street Fun World 

Universal Wonderland: Let’s Smile Together!: a limited-time 25th-anniversary show celebrating Universal Studios Japan with cheerful music, characters, and family-friendly entertainment. 

Final Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

Visiting USJ during its time of celebrations is an experience that slightly differs from the usual park experience and rewards careful prior planning. With so much to see, especially during the park’s anniversary celebrations, a little preparation goes a long way. 

• Opening hours, ticket prices, and event schedules can vary by date, so it’s important to check these details when planning your trip. 

• Popular areas such as Super Nintendo World often require timed-entry tickets for admission. These can end early depending on crowd levels, so secure your reservation in advance. 

• Express Passes and Universal Express Passes are essential for skipping long queues at popular attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. These passes can sell out, so purchase in advance. 

• Always check the official website for the latest updates on park operations, opening hours (which vary by date and season), and possible early closures or changes to attractions and services. 

• Some attractions, services, or photo services may be suspended or closed without prior notice due to maintenance or operational reasons. 

• Universal City, just before the park entrance, is a convenient shopping and dining area to explore before or after your visit. 

• Arrive at the park gates 60–90 minutes before opening for better access and to maximise your day. 

• Reselling of tickets is strictly prohibited, and resold tickets will not be accepted at the park. 

By planning ahead, arriving early, and making smart use of these tips and tools, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more enjoyable visit.

Whether you’re stepping into the magical world of Hogwarts, collecting coins in Super Nintendo World, or enjoying the nostalgic charm of classic attractions, Universal Studios Japan offers something for every kind of visitor. With its immersive themed zones, seasonal events, and special anniversary celebrations, the park promises a full day of excitement from start to finish, leaving you with unforgettable memories and plenty of reasons to return. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I purchase tickets? 

USJ has only recently transitioned its ticket sales to exclusively online platforms, so advanced booking of your entry tickets and Express Passes is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid missing out, especially during busy periods. 

Do visitors have access to Wi-Fi inside the park? 

Yes, there is free Wi-Fi available to park guests under the canopy area inside the park. 

What accommodation locations are best to stay at for easy access? 

There’s a range of different accommodations located within close proximity to USJ. However, these five hotels provide some of the most streamlined park access: 

• The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan (less than a one-minute walk to the main entrance)

• Hotel Universal Port (5 to 10 minutes from the park entrance) 

• The Singulari Hotel and Skyspa at Universal Studios Japan (located above Universal-City Station, a short walk from the entrance) 

• Hotel Keihan Universal Tower (just one minute’s walk from USJ) 

• Hotel Kintetsu Universal City (very close to the park’s main entrance) 

• Other hotels in the Osaka Bay area are also convenient for visiting Universal Studios Japan and other entertainment venues.

Please note: Attraction availability, waiting times, and area entry conditions at Universal Studios Japan are subject to change due to weather conditions, maintenance, or operational policies on the day of your visit. Before visiting, please be sure to check the latest information on the official USJ app or website’s park schedule, and prepare accordingly. Some operations or photo services may be suspended or closed without prior notice.