Universal Studios Japan Park Tickets Guide 2023
You’ll need a Universal Studios Japan park ticket to enjoy everything this fantastic theme park offers! There are also optional Express Passes to help you skip the long lines.
Buying tickets for Universal Studios Japan is daunting at first glance, but I’ll explain the process to help you decide what’s best for you! A lot changed in 2020, so I recommend reading through our free guide if you want to visit soon.
If you want tickets and Express Pass now, I recommend buying them through Klook.
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Universal Studios Japan Ticket Prices 2023
| Ticket Type | Adult (12+) | Child (Ages 4-11) | Senior (65+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Studio Pass | ¥8,900~¥9,800 | ¥5,400~¥6,300 | ¥7,600~¥8,500 |
| Twilight Pass (After 3 PM) | ¥5,900~¥6,200 | ¥3,500~¥3,700 | N/A |
| 1.5-Day Studio Pass | ¥13,400 | ¥8,600 | N/A |
| 2-Day Studio Pass | ¥16,600 | ¥10,500 | N/A |
| 1-Day Studio Pass (for Guests with Disabilities) | ¥4,600 | ¥2,900 | N/A |
Ex: ¥8,900 is about US$89. (Yes, the yen is weak, so I recommend using Google to get a more accurate conversion)
Prices are Japanese yen, but a 1-Day Studio Pass starts at about $62 US dollars based on the current exchange rate.
The ticket prices vary for the 1-day passes depending on the time of year and demand. If you have the time, I recommend getting the 1.5-Day Studio Pass, where you enter from 3 PM on the first day. You’ll be able to take advantage of the single-rider lines and accomplish a lot. The next full day, your day is much easier and less stressful.
How to Buy Universal Studios Japan Tickets
Tickets for Universal Studios Japan go on sale 2-months in advance. Buy them as soon as you know what dates you wish to visit to avoid disappointment.
Here is where to buy Universal Studios Japan tickets:
- Klook
- Official Website
- Lawson convenience stores in Japan (through the Loppi machines)
- Ticket Booths (not recommended)
What is the easiest way to buy Universal Studios Japan tickets?
The easiest way to buy tickets is through the Universal Studios Japan website, followed by Klook. This also includes the Express Pass. I do not recommend buying tickets at the ticket booths the day of your visit because you are wasting precious park time and risk tickets being sold out for the day.
Use promo code KLKTDREX to receive US$4 off your first order through Klook.
Universal Studios Japan Annual Pass
| Annual Pass Type | Adult (12+) | Child (Ages 4-11) |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Prime Annual Pass Grand Royal | ¥48,800 | ¥33,200 |
| Universal Prime Annual Pass Standard | ¥20,000 | ¥14,000 |
The Universal Prime Pass Standard is worth considering if you want to visit for more than 3 days, and the Grand Royal Pass is if you want to visit for more than 5 days a year.
You can buy your Annual Pass when you visit the park and upgrade your day ticket! Visit the Annual Pass Center inside the park.
Read more about Universal Studios Japan Annual Passes.
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass Prices 2023
| Express Pass Type | Price (All Ages) | Attractions Included |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Express Pass 4 | ¥7,800 | Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Jurassic Park – The Ride, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem |
| Universal Express Pass 7 | ¥10,800 | Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop, Hollywood Dream – The Ride, JAWS, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem |
| Cool Japan Express Pass | ¥2,000 | Usually includes all attractions for Cool Japan |
| Halloween Horror Nights | ¥6,800 | It usually includes all Horror Night Houses and experiences. |
Express Pass allows you to skip the line at different attractions. It’s a great option if you don’t want to deal with the long lines, making your day easier. Of course, it doesn’t come cheap.
There are several options for the Universal Express Pass 4 and 7 that I’ve listed above that include different attractions. It’s best to check the Universal Studios Japan website for all the available types and attractions.
How to buy the Express Pass
The Universal Studios Japan website has the most options regarding the Express Pass. Take the time to review them and see what works best for you. Klook also has Express Pass, but the options aren’t as varied. Express Pass goes on sale 2 months in advance.
Here’s where you can buy the Express Pass:
What Express Pass Should I Buy?
You shouldn’t need to buy the Express Pass if you utilize the single rider lines for ten attractions. However, depending on the park’s busyness, the single rider line may have long waits or cut off.
I suggest looking at what attractions are your absolute must and seeing if you can get away with the Express Pass 4 to save money. However, don’t feel bad for splurging on the Express Pass 7 if you feel that’s needed. It is worth it not having to wait in long lines.
What do I do when the Express Pass is sold out?
Express Passes tend to sell out quickly. So, it’s best to buy them as soon as they’re available (see above). Try the Univeral Studios Japan website, Klook, and other third parties. Sometimes, the official website may be sold out, but some are available on third parties like Klook.
So it’s worth checking around.
Based on our experience, once the Express Pass is sold out, rarely are there any more released. Of course, this could change, but I wouldn’t count on it. While you can buy Express Pass at the ticket booths the day of your visit, the chances of the Express Oass you want being available are slim.
Should I get the Express Pass for Mario Kart or Yoshi’s Adventure?
Buying an Express Pass for Mario Kart or Yoshi’s Adventure comes with a timed-entry ticket to enter Super Nintendo World. Some days you need a timed-entry ticket to get into the area; others don’t.
If you want to guarantee you’ll get into Super Nintendo World, getting an Express Pass with one of the attractions is best.
Nevertheless, if you read our Super Nintendo World Guide, I explain all the different ways you can get into Super Nintendo World.
My Credit Card Won’t Work with the Website
It’s a common issue where credit cards issued outside Japan may not work with the Universal Studios Japan website. Here are a few things to try:
- The official website allows Apple Pay (so you’ll need to use your phone)
- Buy your tickets and Express Pass through Klook
- Sign up for a Wise Card to use on the Universal Studios Japan website
- Buy tickets at the gates (I don’t recommend this, but it is a last-ditch effort)
Park Tickets FAQ
Here is a list of frequently asked questions regarding tickets and Express Pass for Universal Studios Japan!
If you plan accordingly and utilize the Express Pass and Single Rider lines, you can do most things in one day. However, I recommend 1.5 days, so you’re not rushed.
If you want to maximize your day with minimal wait, then it’s worth the money. Using the Express Pass with Single Rider lines and arriving early, you’ll be able to accomplish a lot.
Tickets start at ¥8,900 (about USD$65) for a 1-day ticket.
They’re available 2 months in advance.
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.
Book Your Flight
I use Google Flights & Momodo to find affordable flights. Another great way is to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get notifications of cheap fares, 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-renown 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 with 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 entrance to the Park. That’s not enough to stay connected and share your day with everyone back home to give them FOMO on Instagram. 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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