Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka isn’t just a theme park — it’s a portal into every wild, joyful, nostalgic part of your imagination.
From screaming your heart out in Jurassic Park to casting spells at Hogwarts, USJ is packed with unforgettable rides and magical moments.
But… here’s the truth: your experience depends a lot on how you plan.
So let’s break it down — how to play USJ with or without the Express Pass. Either way, joy is guaranteed.
If you’re visiting with little ones, you may also like our guide on “How to Enjoy USJ with Your Kids“.
* What’s an Express Pass?
The Express Pass is a paid add-on that lets you skip the regular lines for certain rides. It comes in several types (Express Pass 4, 7, Premier, etc.), each covering different attractions.
💡 Note: You still need a basic park ticket — Express is just an add-on.
Book your park tickets directly through USJ’s official site →
Choose Your Joy Style:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Express Pass | Skip lines, more rides, smooth day | Expensive ($50 – $120 extra) |
| No Pass | Budget-friendly, spontaneous | Requires strategy & early start |
At the end of the day, both paths lead to joy — just different flavors of fun.
* How to Enjoy USJ With Express Pass
* Arrive Early
Even with Express, arriving before opening gives you a head start on food, merch, and atmosphere.
* Download the USJ App
It shows:
- Wait times
- Your Express QR codes
- Park map
* What to Do First
- Enter Super Nintendo World (SNW) at your reserved time
- Play mini-games with a Power-Up Band
- Eat at Kinopio’s Café 🍄
- Ride: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
* Use Express Slots on:
- The Flying Dinosaur (thrill level: 🔥🔥🔥)
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Hollywood Dream: The Ride
* Between Rides
- Chill with street shows near Minion Park
- Drink butterbeer at Hogsmeade
- Try snack hits: matcha churros, minion buns, turkey legs
* How to Play USJ Without Express Pass
Step 1: Arrive EARLY
- Be at the gate 30 mins before opening
- Some hotels offer early entry tickets — use them!
Step 2: Route Plan (No Pass)
- Super Nintendo World
- Get a free timed entry ticket via the app or kiosks
- Go here first or miss it
- Harry Potter Area
- Ride Forbidden Journey right after SNW
- Explore the shops and castle when lines go up
- Rest of the Park
- Visit Jurassic Park, WaterWorld, Amity Village
- Watch live shows when lines are long
* Must-Have Survival Kit
- Power bank
- Water bottle
- Easy snacks
- Patience + good energy
* No-Pass Pro Tips
- Use Single Rider lanes when available
- Target 4–5 rides max and enjoy the rest slowly
- Ride big ones during lunch or parade times
* What Makes USJ Special
- 🎮 Super Nintendo World: like stepping into a video game
- 🪄 Hogsmeade: next-level Harry Potter atmosphere
- 🍱 Seasonal foods + merch: always something new
* Tips for Catching the Parade
- Arrive at the parade route with enough buffer time: 30 minutes before start is recommended .
- Double‑check the day’s show schedule on the USJ website or app (look under “Show and Attraction Schedule”) for exact timings; schedules are subject to change .
- Keep an eye on weather or operational notices—parade timing or even cancellations can happen without notice .
Visiting during busy seasons? See our “Best Time to Visit Japan” for help choosing low-crowd travel dates.
Enjoy Your Trip!
Which USJ ride would you run to first? Let me know in the comments 👇
And if this helped, share it with a friend planning their trip 🎒
For more on picking your Osaka base, see “Where Should You Stay in Osaka?.”
— Joy