Universal Studios Japan isn’t just a theme park—it’s a full-on cinematic adventure! From the wizarding world of Harry Potter to the roaring dinosaurs of Jurassic Park, every ride feels like stepping into your favourite movie. Hop on the thrilling "Rush Hour" or laugh till your cheeks hurt in Minion Land—get ready to be amazed from morning to night!



Everything you need to know about Universal Studios Japan
Stay at Universal Studios Japan Hotel, a themed property located inside the park, offering unlimited access and immersive room designs inspired by iconic franchises like Harry Potter and Despicable Me. Family-friendly amenities include dedicated kids' activities, early entry privileges, and convenient walkability to all attractions—just a 3-minute stroll from the main gate.
Alternatively, Hotel Gracery Osaka (a Marriott property) is ideal for those seeking luxury and convenience. Located just 15 minutes by car or via Hankyu Railway, it features an indoor pool, fitness center, and international dining options. Its proximity to the park’s transit hub makes it perfect for travelers who value comfort and flexibility.
The Universal Studios Japan Hotel is located within the park grounds, with a direct walking path to the main entrance—just 3 minutes away. The route features immersive theming, including themed lighting and props, enhancing the sense of adventure. Guests enjoy 24/7 shuttle services within the park, making transfers to areas like Water World or Studio Plaza effortless. Due to its prime location, hotel guests receive priority entry privileges, allowing early access to popular attractions such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Park without long queues.
Beyond the park’s exclusive treats, explore Studio Walk area surrounding Universal Studios Japan. Try the Minion-themed café’s Banana Pudding and Mini Sandwiches, known for their playful presentation and unique flavors. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, savor butterbeer and pumpkin pie, crafted live with magical flair using enchanted ingredients. Don’t miss the Fire Ramen House in Studio Plaza, famous for its smoky broth and spicy oil blend—served with dramatic flame effects. These dishes are more than meals; they’re part of the immersive storytelling, elevating your visit into a full sensory adventure.
The most efficient option is taking the JR Yumesaki Line to "Expo Commemoration Park Station", then transferring to the park shuttle bus—a 30-minute journey from central Osaka. Alternatively, from Namba Station, ride the Hankyu Railway to "Mori no Miyako Station" and transfer to the Universal City Express Bus, reaching the park in about 25 minutes. International travelers can also use the KIX USJ Express, a direct airport train service from Kansai Airport, arriving at the park in just 50 minutes with no transfers. All routes feature clear signage, multilingual announcements, and seamless integration with park entry, ensuring a stress-free commute.
Beyond major zones, the park hides several photogenic gems. Visit the backyard of Hogwarts Castle at sunrise—golden light filters through ancient stone walls, creating a dreamy backdrop perfect for photos with books and fountains. The corner garden in Minion Park, filled with pastel-colored huts and slides, offers a whimsical setting for playful shots. At night, the Neon Tunnel in Future World transforms into a sci-fi wonderland, ideal for long-exposure photography. These lesser-known locations are quieter, often equipped with themed props and backdrops—perfect for capturing unique moments using slow shutter speeds or professional gear.
Yes, guests staying at the Universal Studios Japan Hotel receive 30-minute early entry each day through the Early Bird Pass program. This allows you to enter the park before official opening hours, giving priority access to top attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Park—ideal for avoiding peak crowds. Additionally, hotel guests may reserve Express Passes to further reduce wait times. The pass is issued at check-in and valid only for that day, so plan your visit strategically to maximize this exclusive benefit.
See what other travelers say about Universal Studios Japan

We stayed here with two families and had an absolutely wonderful time. The place felt like a cozy home away from home, and everyone in our group loved the comfortable atmosphere. There are so many great local restaurants nearby—perfect for dinner after a long day of exploring. At night, it’s wonderfully quiet, making it ideal for a peaceful stay. It's also super close to Universal Studios Osaka, which made our days even more convenient. Everyone in our group kept raving about how much they enjoyed the experience and said they’d definitely book again next time we visit Osaka. A true gem with excellent value—highly recommend!

The owner was incredibly welcoming and made the check-in process so much easier despite the language barrier—his warmth really stood out. The room was spotless, with daily cleaning and fresh bed-making every morning. I appreciated how attentive they were to small details. Breakfast was simple but thoughtful: fresh bread slices, a small bowl of crisp vegetables, and a juicy orange each day—especially nice in Japan where fresh produce can be pricey. It felt like a little health boost! Towels were changed daily, which is always a plus. The whole building has this charming old Shanghai-inspired design—unique and full of character. It’s not a huge hotel, so it doesn’t compare to international chains in size or luxury, but that’s part of its charm. Plus, it’s just a 3-4 minute walk to the station (follow the map in photo 1), making it super convenient for visiting Universal Studios. In the Nishinomiya area, this place offers great value and location. If you're looking for a cozy, authentic stay close to major attractions without the crowds or high prices, this is definitely worth considering.

Staying at Bijou Suites Lieto APM was a delightful experience. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with the added convenience of an in-room washing machine and complimentary laundry pods—perfect for longer stays. The self-contained kitchen is great for preparing meals, but honestly, you won’t want to cook when just next door is Risolla, a standout restaurant offering incredible Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine. The food is fresh, beautifully presented, and priced fairly. Clean, vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service make it a must-visit—definitely plan at least one meal there during your stay.

I completely forgot to take photos of the hotel exterior, so I’ll just share a picture of the breakfast instead! Toyoko Inn Osaka Bentencho might be small, but it’s surprisingly well-equipped and incredibly clean—exactly what you want after a long day. The real highlight? Its proximity to Osaka Dome. After a concert, you can walk straight back without needing to squeeze onto crowded subway trains. The staff are friendly and helpful, making check-in and any requests super smooth. The breakfast buffet is simple but delicious—great variety for a budget-friendly stay. There’s even a 7-Eleven right around the corner, perfect for late-night snacks or essentials. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable. If I’m ever back in Osaka for another concert, this will definitely be my go-to hotel. Highly recommend for travelers who value convenience, cleanliness, and a great vibe.

Staying at this property was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right next to Kujo Station, with a ramen shop right outside the door and a lively shopping street just steps away. It’s only about a 10-minute walk to the Osaka Dome, making it perfect for concert-goers who want convenience and peace of mind. The room itself was spotless, comfortable, and well-designed, offering great value for money. What really stood out was the host’s detailed email instructions in both Chinese and English, complete with clear visuals that made check-in seamless and stress-free. Every little detail shows thoughtfulness. Highly recommend this gem if you're visiting Osaka—especially if you’re planning to catch a show!

Staying at Lucky House Guest House was an absolute delight! The place is spacious, peaceful, and thoughtfully designed—perfect for a relaxing getaway in Osaka. The host went above and beyond with their kindness and helpfulness, offering great local tips and making sure everything was just right during our stay. The location is super convenient—just a short walk to the metro and close to everything we wanted to explore. It’s rare to find such a warm, welcoming atmosphere combined with excellent comfort and value. I’d highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Osaka. Definitely one of the best stays I’ve had on my trip!

Absolutely perfect! This spacious, spotless, and incredibly comfortable apartment is a top-tier choice for any traveler. The location is ideal—just steps away from subway lines that connect you to all major attractions in Osaka without needing transfers. Around the building, you'll find everything you need: convenience stores, local eateries, and shops. The self-check-in feature was a game-changer—it gave us full flexibility and peace of mind. From the clean, well-designed space to the excellent amenities, every detail exceeded expectations. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a home away from home. Highly recommend this property for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for comfort, convenience, and value. 10/10 without hesitation.

Staying at The Wonder at Stay-Bentencho was an absolute highlight of my trip to Osaka! The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Namba and Shinsaibashi, making it super convenient for exploring the city. Even though the room is compact, it’s thoughtfully designed with modern touches, clean, and incredibly comfortable. I slept like a baby every night. What really impressed me was the value for money—price-wise, it’s unbeatable for the quality and location. If you’re looking for a cozy, well-located base in Osaka, this place is a must-book. I’ll definitely be returning!

If you're visiting the Expo, this hotel is an absolute gem for location—just a 10-minute walk from Benten-machi Station and less than 10 minutes to Yume-shima Station. The area is packed with great dining options, so coming back at night never feels like a problem—you’ll never go hungry. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful; one even offered to check me in early and store my luggage without hesitation. But what really stood out? The room itself had a vintage vinyl record player, and the team was happy to lend me free records—perfect for a cozy evening vibe. It’s such a unique touch that makes the stay feel personal and special. Everything about this place—from service to comfort—feels thoughtfully designed. A top-tier experience with unbeatable value. I’d definitely book again.
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