Written by Lily Crossley-Baxter
With rollercoasters, immersive 4D-experiences, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, plenty of exciting rides, and Super Nintendo World, it’s no wonder that a visit to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has become one of the top things to do in the Kansai region. This steady popularity, however, means few discounts are available, but decisions on where and when to buy tickets, as well as what kind of access you want, can help you save a few yen towards that extra cauldron cake.
Read on for our comprehensive guide to Universal Studios Japan tickets: how much they cost, where to buy them, and — most importantly — getting whatever discounts are available.
Also read: Our recommended USJ itinerary for first-time visitors.
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Note: All prices are listed inclusive of tax, but prices do fluctuate and may rise annually.
Universal Studios Japan tickets: Prices and types
On the surface, USJ’s tickets are pretty simple: you have a 1-Day Studio Pass, a 1.5-Day Studio Pass, a 2-Day Studio Pass, and the option of an Express Pass add-on. So how much do tickets to Universal Studios Japan cost?
USJ ticket prices: Studio Passes
- 1-Day Pass – Adult: ¥8,900 to ¥10,900 — book online
- 1-Day Pass – Child: ¥5,700 to ¥6,800 — book online
- 1.5 Day Pass – Adult: ¥14,300 — book online
- 1.5-Day Pass – Child: ¥9,200 — book online
- 2-Day Pass – Adult: ¥16,900 — book online
- 2-Day Pass – Child: ¥10,800 — book online
Peak vs. off-peak tickets
Universal Studios Japan entry ticket prices vary depending on the day and season. Peak times include late February to March, Golden Week in May, and mid-July to the end of August. Other popular times of the year include the park’s seasonal events such as Halloween, Christmas and the New Year’s holiday. Around these times, tickets can go up to ¥11,900.
Off-peak season is from October to December. Naturally, tickets tend to be on the cheaper side during this time, costing between ¥8,900 to ¥9,900. Regarding what day of the week to go, consider going on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday — these are the least crowded days.
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass — everything to know
To make the most out of your day, and avoid some stress, consider getting a Universal Studio Japan Express Pass — also known as a “Fast Pass”. These special tickets reduce wait times and allow you to skip the queue. A Fast Pass also guarantees entry to popular areas like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Sounds simple enough, right? Well, just because you have a Express Pass, doesn’t mean you can just skip the queue for any ride you would like. There are actually several Express Passes to choose from — each with different inclusions and access.
The first choice you need to make is whether you want an Express Pass for 4, 5, 7, or 8 attractions. Compare the prices below (note that they do not include the Studio Pass, which is needed for entry).
- USJ Express Pass for 4 attractions – ranging from ¥6,800 to ¥16,800.
- USJ Express Pass for 5 attractions – ranging from ¥12,200 to ¥18,900.
- USJ Express Pass for 7 attractions – from ¥21,800.
- USJ Express Pass for 8 attractions – from ¥23,900.
After you have picked the number of attractions, you then need to pick the type of Express Pass. Each includes different rides and options, with some being better for families and others for thrillseekers.
USJ Express Pass for 4 attractions
- Race & Minecart: Mine Cart Madness, Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Flying Dinosaur or JAWS. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Adventure & Race: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Minion & Hollywood Dream The Ride: Mine Cart Madness, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Dream – The Ride or JAWS. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Backdrop & Race: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Space Fantasy – The Ride, Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Joruney or The Flying Dinosaur. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
Note: There are a number of other 4-attractions passes to choose from, including those specifically include various 4D shows at USJ. They all differ in price.
USJ Express Pass for 5 attractions
- Adventure Special: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, The Flying Dinosaur, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Dream – The Ride. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Mine Cart & Hollywood Dream Special: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Mine Cart Madness, Hollywood Dream – The Ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Race & Minecart Special: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Mine Cart Madness, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast and The Flying Dinosaur. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
- Race & Minion Special: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, JAWS or Jurassic Park – The Ride. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
USJ Express Pass for 7 attractions
- Minecart & Selection: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Mine Cart Madness, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, The Flying Dinosaur or Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, JAWS or Jurassic Park – The Ride. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
USJ Express Pass for 8 attractions
- Minion & Minecart Special: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Mine Cart Madness, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, The Flying Dinosaur or Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, JAWS or Jurassic Park. Area Timed Entry Ticket: Super Nintendo World.
Note: The Express Pass inclusions often change so we recommend double checking on the USJ official website.
How to use the Universal Studios Japan Express Pass
Once you buy your Express tickets, you will see that some of the attractions have timed entry and some don’t. For those that don’t, you can just go along whenever you like. For timed entry, you will need to go at the time printed on your ticket (remember to get there a little early). Make sure to show your ticket to a staff member.
Although you can get Express Passes separately, we recommend buying your Express Pass along with your Studio Pass, in advance, as they do tend to sell out.
Is the Universal Studios Japan Express Pass worth it?
The Express Pass isn’t cheap, and when you add it to the cost of eating at the park, getting there and back, it can make the overall day pricey. That said, there are a lot of ways you can save money while inside the park. The main benefit is that it can take a lot of stress out of the day and guarantees entry into some of the most in-demand areas. It also massively cuts down the waiting time, so it is ideal if you are visiting during peak season.
However, there are other ways that you can try to reduce your wait time, such as opting for single riders. It’s not a guarantee like an Express Pass, but it is a free alternative. Additionally, it’s important to note that some rides may be closed for maintenance on the day of your visit. As a result, even with the Express Pass, there’s a chance you may not be able to experience your desired ride.
At the end of the day, whether it is worth it or not comes down to the experience you want and how much money you think your time is worth.
What are Area Timed Entry Tickets and Standby Entry Tickets?
To enter the most popular areas of USJ, including Super Nintendo World, you need to know about Area Timed Entry Tickets and Standby Entry Tickets. Obtaining one of these tickets gives you access to that area at a designated time. If you don’t get one of these, you may not be able to enter these sections.
It is possible to get these tickets before coming to the park. Keep in mind that some authorized resellers sell bundles that include both the Studio Pass and Area Timed Entry Tickets, so purchasing these is the easiest option. The other option is to get an Express Pass that comes with an Area Timed Entry Ticket.
Alternatively, visitors can get these tickets on the day — both through the official app and ticket kiosk. Although it is free to do, you can only try once you have scanned in and entered the park. For the best chance of securing such tickets, we recommend downloading the app beforehand and registering your Studio Pass.
Given that there are only a set number of Area Timed Entry Tickets available each day, there’s a possibility that you won’t be able to secure one. If that is the case, try applying for a Standby Entry Ticket on the app. This is basically a lottery for Area Timed Entry Tickets — it does not guarantee a ticket, but gives you a chance.
Note: During busy periods, you may also need to obtain an Area Timed Entry Ticket for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Planning ahead: How to buy USJ tickets online
Tickets for USJ are released up to three months in advance. It is recommended that you buy your tickets early — as some dates may sell out. This is especially true for peak seasons, and during special events such as Halloween Horror Night and No Limit! Christmas.
Booking Universal Studios Japan tickets in English
It is possible to buy your tickets directly from the official USJ site (in English). However, some users have expressed that sometimes errors come up.
That’s why we recommend buying your USJ Studio Pass through Klook, an authorized reseller. It’s much easier.
The “authorized reseller” part is important: If you rock up with tickets purchased through any non-authorized resellers, you won’t be able to enter the park unless you buy a new ticket on the day.
Here’s a step-by-step on how to buy your Studio Pass on Klook:
- Choose the date you want to visit and click “Check availability”.
- Select the type of pass you want to get and add to the cart.
- Pay for your ticket using a credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Union Pay, etc.)
- Upon payment and the booking being confirmed, you will receive an email with your Klook e-ticket.
- Use the e-ticket on the Klook app or email to enter the park.
Note: Follow the same process for the USJ Express Pass.
Booking USJ Osaka tickets in Japanese
Another option is to book directly on the Japanese USJ website. This can be manageable if you use Google Translate (which works well on Chrome), and offers some unique discounts.
Special birthday discounts at USJ Osaka
There are some discounts to be had on the Japanese site if it is your birthday. If you’re visiting during your birthday month or the following month, you can save ¥500 on a 1-Day Pass and ¥1,000 on your 2-Day Pass. Children get ¥300 off on a 1-Day Pass and ¥600 on a 2-Day Pass.
You do have to be a member for this deal, but you can sign up for free, so it’s an easy save.
VIP Experience
For a luxury experience, you could consider getting the Universal VIP Experience. This not only includes priority access to attractions, but also a dedicated tour guide, and access to a premium lounge. There are two tour types to choose from: Private or Group. Both offer several other benefits, including photo opportunities, special meals and access to exclusive spots throughout the park.
Group tours start from ¥29,000, and Private tours from ¥198,000.
Group booking options
Group bookings are available for groups of 40 and above. If you are visiting in a bigger group, e.g. as a school, it is best to contact USJ or a local travel agency for the best deals.
Special event and ride tickets
As mentioned, Universal Studios Japan hosts a number of events throughout the year. Some, such as the New Year Countdown event, require an additional ticket like an Area Timed Entry Ticket or Standby Entry Ticket. Rides such as Detective Conan: The Escape, also require a separate ticket.
Travel combination tickets for USJ
It can work out cheaper to buy a package deal for your entry pass, transport and accommodation, especially if you are coming from a major area like Tokyo.
USJ ticket + highway bus combo packages
If you’re traveling from Tokyo, there are various USJ bus packages available from Willer Express, which include your USJ entry ticket, transport and — optionally — hotel accommodation if you don’t fancy snoozing in the bus.
Alternatively, you can make your own way to Osaka — you can get highway bus tickets from Tokyo to Osaka for as low as ¥4,400 one way.
Universal Studios Japan ticket FAQs
Can I change the date of my USJ ticket?
You can change the admission date for USJ Studio Passes and Birthday Passes, but not for Express Passes. If you purchased through the official website or Klook, you can adjust your ticket date within 90 days of the original admission date. To make changes, use the “purchase history” section on either site.
Do I need to print out my USJ ticket?
No, you don’t need to print out your USJ ticket. Simply use the e-ticket and scan its QR code to register your Studio Pass on the app.
What time does USJ open?
USJ can open anytime between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. depending on the day or season. Check the official schedule beforehand, as these times can change. It is especially important to check if you are considering buying Express tickets after you entered the park.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. This post was originally published in June 2020. Last updated: March 10, 2026, by Jane Pipkin.
