Universal Studios Japan has announced plans for its new “Universal Spectacle Night Parade – Best of Hollywood”. Starting in 2018, the parade will use new technology to immerse fans in the worlds of Harry Potter, Minions, Jurassic World, and Transformers.

The parade will use Universal Creative’s groundbreaking ‘Show Orchestration’ system to create a unique, immersive experience for guests along the 590m parade route. Perfectly synchronized projection mapping will bring the floats and buildings to life with action-packed scenes inspired by the movies.

The park’s announcement says this “next-generation” spectacle is made possible through new wireless technology which allows the creators to coordinate the parade so that the music, lighting, and performances by live entertainers will change as each float progresses along the route.

“Universal Spectacle Night Parade – Best of Hollywood” is set to celebrate the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the madness of the Minions, and the wonders of Jurassic World. The Transformers will also join these fan-favourites at the park for the first time.

There are only a few details on which characters and scenes from the movies will be brought to life, but the announcement teases “transforming robots” as one of the effects, while the promotion artwork includes the Hogwarts Express and Jurassic Park’s T-Rex.

Universal Studios Japan has not confirmed when the parade will debut, but with Tokyo Disneyland’s 35th “Happiest Celebration!” starting in April, a spring/summer launch would help Universal keep up with the competition in 2018.

Already confirmed for Universal Studios next year is the return of Cool Japan which showcases the coolest Japanese characters from anime, manga, and video games. Running January 19 – June 24, 2018, next year’s event features new attractions based on Final Fantasy and Sailor Moon.

Images and information from the Universal Studios Japan media release.

Are you planning a trip to Osaka to visit Universal Studios Japan? Be sure to read our guides on booking flights to Japan, buying a Japan Rail Pass, and even how to stay connected with Japanese mobile internet data.