Universal Studios Japan’s Minion Park has officially unveiled its major expansion, now open to the public as of Friday, July 11, 2025. The enlarged area increases the size of the beloved land by 1.4 times and introduces an all-new attraction, exclusive villain-themed merchandise, mischievous new snacks, and fresh entertainment for Minion fans of all ages.
A grand opening ceremony was held on July 10th, welcoming over 300 enthusiastic Minion fans, members of the press, and characters from the Despicable Me series, including Gru, Lucy, and their daughters Margo, Edith, and Agnes.
Villain-Con Minion Blast
The highlight of the expansion is the debut of Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, USJ’s first-ever moving walkway-style shooting attraction. Guests are invited to attend Villain-Con, as seen in the films.
Armed with a blaster called the ‘Eliminator-X’, guests will travel along a moving walkway competing to get the highest score possible to become a new member of the Vicious 6, a super villain group that will be making its first appearance in a park attraction.
Attraction Overview
- Experience time: Approximately 7 minutes
- Attraction type: Moving walkway shooting attraction
- Height Requirements: Under 122cm must be accompanied by an adult (no lap holding)
- Wheelchairs and strollers are permitted. However, electric wheelchairs are not permitted.
Food and Merchandise
No villain outing is complete without a feast! The new snack stand, Evil Eats, serves up devilishly delightful menu items, including the eye-catching BBQ Pork & Bacon Villain Donut Burger and blueberry Evil Minion Donut. Every dish is crafted to satisfy the cravings of the world’s baddest baddies.
Meanwhile, the Evil Stuff shop is a treasure trove of villain-inspired merchandise. From headbands featuring villain-costumed Minions, plush Minion toys, to limited-edition apparel, there’s something wickedly fun for everyone.
Skip the Lines with the Universal Express Pass
To make the most of your day at the park, the new Minion Mayhem: The Villain’s Journey attraction is included in the Universal Express Pass, allowing Guests to skip the regular queues and enjoy a smooth, stress-free visit. The pass includes priority access to four attractions:
- Minion Mayhem: The Road to Supervillainy
- Minion Mayhem Ride
- Yoshi’s Adventure
- Detective Conan 4-D Live Show Jewel of the Starry Sky
Images provided by Universal Studios Japan
HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements © Disney & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JK Rowling.
MINIONS TM & © 2025 Universal Studios.
© Nintendo
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
TM & © 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.
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