Universal's first theme park outside the United States, Universal Studios Japan opened March 31, 2001 in Osaka. Today, it's Universal's most-visited theme park, drawing more than 14 million visitors in 2019, ranking sixth in the world. In addition to familiar Universal theme park properties - such as Harry Potter, the Minions, and Jurassic Park - Universal Studios Japan also is home to Super Nintendo World as well as characters from Peanuts and Sesame Street, which are found at rival parks in the United States.
Our recommendations below come from our ongoing survey of Theme Park Insider readers. Locations with star ratings ★ ranked especially highly among our readers. Vote here to take part in our surveys and submit your picks for top attractions.
New for 2024
Mine-Cart Madness - This new "boom coaster" will anchor the Donkey Kong Country expansion of Super Nintendo World, in spring 2024.
What to Do
Top Recommendations
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey★ ★ ★
Kuka-arm dark ride located in Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. Height requirement: 48 inches
Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge
Super Nintendo World's main attraction is an augmented reality dark ride in which guests drive in a real-life Mario Kart game. Height requirement: 36 inches
Jurassic Park The Flying Dinosaur
A 3,688-foot Bolliger & Mabillard flying coaster in Jurassic Park, with a 124-foot drop, top speed of 62 mph and five inversions. Height requirement: 52 inches
Jurassic Park The Ride
Dinosaur-themed shoot-the-chutes flume ride in Jurassic Park. Height requirement: 42 inches
Waterworld
Live stunt show that far exceeds the Kevin Coster movie upon which it is based.
Other Attractions
Hollywood
Hollywood Dream - The Ride: 3,937-foot Bolliger & Mabillard hyper coaster, with a top speed of 56 mph. Height requirement: 54 inches
Cinema 4D: Movie theater
Space Fantasy - The Ride: Mack Rides indoor spinning coaster. Often rethemed for various limited-time animation events. Height requirement: 40 inches
Sing On Tour: Musical show
Playing With Curious George: Theater show
Universal Monsters Live Rock and Roll Show: Musical show
New York
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride closes January 22.
Minion Park
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Motion base show. Height requirement: 40 inches
Amity Village
Jaws: Narrated outdoor boat ride, just like the one that used to be in Orlando. Height requirement: 48 inches
Super Nintendo World
Yoshi Adventure: Track ride atop Yoshi's back where you hunt through Super Nintendo World for a Golden Egg that Captain Toad was seeking. Height requirement: 34 inches.
Flight of the Hippogriff: Vekoma Junior Coaster. Height requirement: 48 inches
Ollivander's: Live show in a small room, where a guest is selected for a wand selection event
Where to Eat
Recommended
The Three Broomsticks
Counter service British pub fare in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade
Kinopio's Cafe
Chef's Toad's counter service restaurant in Super Nintendo World, serving Mario Burgers, Super Mushroom Pizza Bowls, Caprese Salad, and Question Block Tiramisu.
Finnegan's Bar and Grill
Irish pub and table service restaurant in New York
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