Universal Beijing Resort will welcome the Year of the Horse with Universal’s Chinese New Year, running from 23 January to 3 March 2026. The seasonal event brings traditional Chinese New Year elements together with Universal’s globally recognised characters, filling the park with festive décor, limited-time entertainment, themed food, and exclusive merchandise.
Park Decor and Atmosphere
Seasonal decorations will extend across the resort, from Universal CityWalk Beijing to Hollywood Land, featuring lanterns, cloud motifs, and traditional New Year symbols. The upgraded Golden Wintersweet Tree of Blessings returns, now enhanced with synchronised lighting effects and original music
Entertainment
The centrepiece of the celebration is the refreshed Universal’s Chinese New Year Nian Show, staged at the Amphitheatre. The 20-minute production features 14 well-known characters, including Po from Kung Fu Panda, King Julien from Madagascar, and the Minions, joined by dozens of performers.
This year’s show introduces exciting new choreography, music, and storytelling, alongside traditional performance elements such as Peking Opera female warriors, Sichuan Opera face-changing, and acrobatic drumming. The show is a must-see if you’re visiting during the event period!
Character Greetings
Throughout Hollywood Boulevard, guests can also meet popular Universal characters, including Shrek and Fiona, Woody and Woody Woodpecker, and Puss in Boots with Kitty Softpaws, all appearing in special Chinese New Year outfits for a limited time.
Food and Drink
Food plays a major role in the celebration at Universal’s Chinese New Year Square, which brings together classic flavours from across China. Offerings include jianbing with shredded pork, candied hawthorn, rice noodle dishes, mung bean cake, and traditional Beijing sugar figures.
Merchandise
Seasonal merchandise will also be available across the resort, including new Kung Fu Panda–themed items such as a firecracker-inspired bubble machine, an eye-catching Year of the Horse novelty hat, and Po-themed plush accessories.
Universal elements and all related indicate TM & © 2026 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved
More on Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan Guidebook
Are you planning a trip to Universal Studios Japan? If so, you need our digital guidebook! Our guidebook is the most comprehensive resource available, covering everything you need to know about the park, including Super Nintendo World, Express Pass, hotels, restaurants, attractions, shows, seasonal events, and more! With our guidebook, you’ll be an expert on Universal Studios Japan before you even set foot in the park. You’ll know what to expect, where to go, and what to do. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time at the park.
Stress-Free Japan: Book with Klook
Make the most of your trip to Japan with these exclusive offerings from our trusted affiliate partner, Klook. From making bullet train reservations with ease to fully private tours, you can save time and money on your trip. I’ve used Klook since 2016, and it is my go-to booking platform for anything in Japan!
- Japan Shinkansen & Train Tickets
- JR Pass for All of Japan
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- Asakusa Kimono Rental & Photo Shoot (Kimono Rental Ange)
- Mt. Fuji Private Customizable One Day Trip from Tokyo
Book Your Flight
I use Google Flights & Momodo to find affordable flights. Another great way is to sign up for Going to get notifications of cheap airfares, which happens often in Japan. You’ll sometimes stumble on cheap flights to Kansai International Airport.
Buy Your Shinkansen Tickets (Bullet Train)
Getting around Japan by the world-renowned bullet train, known as the Shinkansen, is incredibly fast, reliable, and affordable for visitors. You can travel from Tokyo to Osaka in just over 2 hours. Get the JR Rail Pass to save a ton of money on the bullet train for your trip.
Book Your Hotel
Universal Studios Japan has affordable accommodations that are steps away from the park and have easy access to Osaka. I recommend checking prices through Booking.com followed by the hotels directly. Sometimes, you’re able to score some incredible deals. Here’s a short list of hotels at Universal Studios Japan I recommend.
- The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan – You’re directly in front of the Park gates and have instant access to Universal CityWalk Osaka. The rooms are gorgeous, with restaurants and even a Lawson (Japanese convenience store).
- The Singulari HOTEL & SKYSPA – Attached to the train station is a fantastic hotel for those who want a comfortable, clean, and stylish place to sleep. After a long day at Universal Studios Japan, the rooftop sento (public bath) is excellent for unwinding and relaxing.
- Hotel Universal Port – This is an excellent hotel for the Minion fan in your family, only a 5-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan. It also boasts the largest breakfast buffet in Japan, a must during your visit.
Buy Your Tickets & Express Pass
In advance, save time and stress by buying your tickets and Express Pass for Universal Studios Japan.
Stay Connected
Universal Studios Japan only offers free Wi-Fi at the park’s entrance. That’s not enough to stay connected and share your day with everyone back home on Instagram to give them FOMO. Here’s how you can stay connected while travelling in Japan.
- Pocket Wi-Fi – If you’re travelling with a group or have multiple devices, this is your best and most affordable way to stay connected to the internet. Pick up and drop off at the airport. Easy.
- Japan SIM Card – If you have an unlocked phone and need a Japanese phone number, this is the best and easiest way.
Get Yourself Travel Insurance
While travelling aboard, having travel insurance protects you against injury, cancellations, illness, and other things you can never predict. Whenever I travel, I always budget for travel insurance to protect myself. I’ve used it, and I’m so glad I had it. My recommended companies are SafteyWing and World Nomads for travel insurance.
Learn More about Universal Studios Japan
Don’t forget to study our in-depth destination guide on Universal Studios Japan for more information on this beautiful park in Osaka.
Some links may be affiliate links to services I recommend. Buying services through these links at no extra cost to you help support TDR Explorer. Please read our full disclosure for more details.
