Universal Studios Japan

Universal Cool Japan 2026 Guide

Universal Studios Japan is going big for 2026 with Universal Cool Japan, bringing together five of the hottest Japanese entertainment franchises under one roof. Visitors can look forward to immersive experiences that let you step into the worlds of Detective Conan, Jujutsu Kaisen, Freiren’s Funeral Parlor, Keigo Higashino’s Masquerade series, and Monster Hunter Wilds

Detective Conan World

This year features the return of popular experiences themed to the popular Detective Conan franchise, including a thrilling Detective Conan escape-room-style attraction, an audio roller coaster overlay and an immersive dining experience. Detective Conan World will be offered from January 30 to June 30, 2026.

Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant

Starting January 30th, Lombard’s Landing will be transformed into the Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant. The unique dining experience will blend French cuisine with an engaging mystery-solving story. Guests will join Kogoro Mouri and Toru Amuro to crack the case surrounding stolen jewels. Highlights include themed drinks with collectible coasters and special desserts.

Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant will be available for pre-sale exclusively to Universal Prime Annual Pass Grand Royal members, through a lottery and general sale. The immersive dining experience is priced at ¥7,000 for adults and ¥2,600 for children. For more information regarding reservations and availability, visit the official USJ website.

Event period: January 30 – May 31, 2026
Location: Lombard’s Landing
Duration: Approx. 80 minutes per session
Tickets: Adults ¥7,000 / Children ¥2,600 (tax included)

Detective Conan: The Escape – Prologue to the Highway

The ultimate real escape game returns, this time with an intense story connected to the latest movie. Guests are thrown into a crisis at the Suzuki Zaibatsu Smart Mobility Research Institute, where drone bombs and explosive devices threaten everyone present. Players must work with Conan, Ran, Kogoro, Masumi Sera, and the Kanagawa Prefectural Police to prevent disaster and uncover the culprit.

Event period: January 30 – June 30, 2026
Location: Stage 18
Ticket price: Not included in park admission. Priced from ¥3,200 per person (tax included)
Sales: USJ Web Ticket Store, Lawson Ticket and JTB

Detective Conan x Story Ride

During the campaign, Hollywood Dream – The Ride will feature an exclusive audio experience, inviting guests to join Conan and Heiji Hattori on an exciting mission. Note:  Detective Conan x Story Ride will be suspended from February 2nd to February 21st for scheduled maintenance.

Event period: January 30 – June 30, 2026
Location: Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Attraction type: Story ride rollercoaster

Detective Conan Merchandise

Universal Studios Japan is releasing themed food and an extensive collection of merchandise inspired by the hit franchise. Highlights include a range of kawaii plush keychains of popular characters, eye-catching wearables, including a baseball cap complete with plush Detective Conan, and a graphic t-shirt.

Related Article: Detective Conan World ‘Universal Cool Japan 2026’ Merchandise

Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen is set to return to Universal Studios Japan this year through a collaboration with the hugely popular manga and anime series. This marks the second major collaboration between Universal Studios Japan and Jujutsu Kaisen, following the hugely popular first run in 2022.

Jujutsu Kaisen: The Real 4-D

The main event is Jujutsu Kaisen The Real 4-D: Spinning Clock Tower – a limited-time 4-D theatre attraction running at the Cinema 4-D Theater until August 18, 2026. The experience combines 3D visuals, surround sound, motion effects, wind, water, and vibration effects for one thrilling adventure.

In Jujutsu Kaisen: The Real 4-D, guests will immerse themselves in the realistic world of Jujutsu Kaisen through 3D media and in-theatre special effects, including lighting, wind, vibration, and water.

Jujutsu Kaisen Story Ride: Cursed Spirit Train.

Alongside the 4D theatre attraction Jujutsu Kaisen The Real 4-D: Spinning Clock Tower, the park will also offer a special version of Hollywood Dream – The Ride, titled Jujutsu Kaisen Story Ride: Cursed Spirit Train. Guests can ride the thrilling coaster while listening to the popular show’s theme song.

Jujutsu Kaisen Merchandise

As part of the collaboration, USJ will offer a range of themed-food and park-exclusive goods to immerse guests in the world of Jujutsu Kaisen. Merchandise includes mascot keychains of Itadori and Gojo, and a cool T-shirt and stainless steel tumbler featuring original artwork, exclusive to Universal Studios Japan.

Beverly Hills Boulangerie will be offering a sandwich set inspired by the first-year students of Tokyo Jujutsu Technical College, as well as a Gojo & Geto mousse cakes reflecting the characters’ personalities – including a limited-time purple churrito inspired by Gojo.

Related Article: Jujutsu Kaisen ‘Universal Cool Japan’ Food at Universal Studios Japan
Jujutsu Kaisen ‘Universal Cool Japan 2026’ Merchandise

Funeral of Freiren

From May 30, 2026 to January 11, 2027, guests will be able to step into Frieren’s world through a themed restaurant, a story-driven coaster experience, a walkthrough attraction, and a full range of exclusive merchandise. If you’ve ever wanted to step into Frieren’s world, this is about as close as it gets!

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End – Restaurant of Memories

The highlight is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End – Restaurant of Memories, a themed dining experience at Lost World Restaurant designed as a town eatery from Frieren’s world. The menu features character-inspired dishes, including Frieren’s beef plate, Himmel’s omelet, and sets inspired by Eisen and Heiter.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Story Walk – A Journey of Remembrance

A walkthrough attraction, Story Walk ~Journey of Remembrance~, also retells key moments from the series using projection mapping and interactive elements. Guests take on the role of travellers arriving in a magical city, where they encounter Frieren, Fern, and Stark. You’ll relive key moments from the story, including meteor showers, emotional reunions, and intense battles.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End x Story Ride ~A Journey with the Bird Monster and the Carriage

Over at Hollywood Dream – The Ride, the coaster receives a limited-time “Story Ride” overlay, placing guests alongside Frieren and her companions on a carriage journey that quickly turns into a sky-bound escape involving a bird monster. This version isn’t available on the Backdrop side of the coaster.

Funeral of Freiren Merchandise

Fans can get their hands on exclusive merchandise featuring original artwork inspired by scenes such as Frieren’s flower-field magic. Highlights include eye-catching headbands with plush mascots, a range of stationery and collectibles, alongside a wearables and accessories.

Monster Hunter Wilds

Step into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds at Wudwud Feast, an immersive theme restaurant that brings the Scarlet Forest and Moriba’s lively hideout to life. The collaboration transforms Jurassic Park’s Lost World Restaurant into Moriba’s lair, packed with “ultra-realistic” details that make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into the game. The experience is open now and runs until May 17, 2026.

Masquerade Series by Higashino Keigo

This year will see the return of Masquerade Series by Higashino Keigo. Based on the famous “Masquerade” series, Peril at the Masquerade will plunge guests into an interactive mystery where they will work to solve a high-stakes crime and discover the truth behind the mask. The dining theatre experience features a full-scale buffet inspired by the first-class Hotel Cortesia.

The immersive attraction will be available from January 30 to June 30, 2026. A special ticket is required for entry to Peril at the Masquerade, with tickets priced at ¥8,600. For detailed ticketing information and performance dates, please visit the official Universal Studios Japan website.

Images provided by Universal Studios Japan

HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JK Rowling.
MINIONS TM & © 2025 Universal Studios.
© Nintendo
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
Calligraphy by Sisyu
Original work: Gosho Aoyama’s “Detective Conan” (currently serialized in Shogakukan’s “Weekly Shonen Sunday”)
© 2026 Gosho Aoyama/Detective Conan Production Committee
© Gege Akutami/Shueisha, Jujutsu Kaisen Production Committee
© Yamada Kanehito, Abe Tsukasa / Shogakukan / “Funeral of Freiren” Production Committee
© Keigo Higashino/Shueisha
© CAPCOM
Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 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.

Universal Studios Japan Guidebook 2025 2026 Cover
Universal Studios Japan Guidebook 2025/2026

GET YOUR GUIDEBOOK NOW

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!

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.