A trip to Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka was a moment that made my heart skip a beat. The magic of the theme parks with their movie worlds, the thrill of the attractions, the time spent with the local delicacies, and the rest in a quiet hotel. All were moments where entertainment and the vibrancy of Osaka blended together. Here are some of the charms of USJ, theme by theme, that my family and I discovered on this trip. The magical world of the park, the thrilling play, the culinary delights, and the relaxing afterglow. This trip will surely leave a vivid memory in your mind. Enjoy an exciting day in Osaka with your family or loved ones. Visitors from overseas can also easily enjoy the parks with English-language guides and apps.
The Magic of Theme Parks: The World of Movies at USJ
When you get off at Universal City Station, about 15 minutes by JR from Osaka Station, the gates of USJ are right in front of you. Opened in 2001, this theme park is home to the worlds of Harry Potter and Mario, and the new attraction “Space Adventure” in 2025 is the talk of the town. As we passed through the gate, the children’s eyes lit up and they said, “It’s like we are in a movie! and their eyes lit up. My husband and I took pictures with Hogwarts Castle in the background and were thrilled by the lively atmosphere of the park. USJ is a place where you can immerse yourself in the magic of entertainment. Admission is 9,800 yen for adults and 5,400 yen for children. The park is open from 9:00 to 21:00 (seasonal change). Check the official website ( USJ ) for English ticket reservations and Halloween 2025 information.
Thrills and Surprises: Excitement of New Attractions
After being enchanted by the magic of the park, try the new attraction ” Space Adventure ” (included in the admission fee, 15 minutes). The ride resembles a spaceship, and the kids are thrilled to find themselves “flying among the stars! They were so excited. My husband and I were amazed at the galactic scenery recreated by VR technology, and we laughed and shouted at each other. The Halloween 2025 event (in October) will be especially spectacular with a nighttime parade. The thrilling attractions are a mind-blowing experience at USJ. Advance reservations recommended; check the official website ( USJ Attractions ) for details.
Gastronomic Moment: Okonomiyaki in the Park
After calming down from the excitement of the attractions, we enjoyed lunch at Osaka Okonomiyaki House in the park. Located near the Harry Potter area, this restaurant boasts Osaka’s famous okonomiyaki. Sitting at the counter in the open kitchen, we were able to watch as the chefs grilled the okonomiyaki right in front of us. The okonomiyaki set we ordered (1,500 yen) was filled with seafood and cabbage in a fluffy batter. The kids were delighted, saying, “This tastes like Osaka, it’s so delicious! My husband added a local beer and said, “The savory flavor is perfect for the park. I, too, was delighted by the plum-flavored sauce that accentuated the dish. An English menu was available, and seeing international travelers enjoying themselves next to each other sparked family conversation. Okonomiyaki is a moment to savor the energy of USJ. Open from 11:00 to 19:00 (last order 18:00). For details, please check the official website ( USJ Dining ).
Resting Afterglow: Universal City Hotel
With the excitement of the parks in our hearts, we rested at the Universal City Hotel. This hotel, a 3-minute walk from the parks, offers spacious, family-friendly rooms. The colorful theme park-inspired rooms had the kids excitedly saying, “It’s like a continuation of the parks! The kids were so excited. My husband and I looked out the window at the night view of the park and reflected on our day as a family. The English-language guidebook provided detailed information about the hotel’s facilities and surroundings, and the sight of international travelers relaxing next to each other created a pleasant atmosphere. The light okonomiyaki-style snacks ordered from room service were also well received; the hotel’s decorations are special for the 2025 Halloween season. Room rates start at around 20,000 yen per room per night including breakfast. For details, please check the official website ( Universal City Hotel ).
Secrets to Enjoying USJ to Your Heart’s Content
To truly enjoy your trip to USJ, we have devised a few things to do. Walk from Universal City Station to get around the park efficiently. If you have children with you, check in advance which routes are stroller-friendly. Booking an Express Pass for attractions can shorten wait times, and an English-language app can help international travelers. Visit Okonomiyaki House early in the day and relax at the counter. At the hotel, consult an English-language park map at check-in to help you plan for the next day; the 2025 Halloween event (October) features a nightly parade and English-speaking guides. Check the official website for seasonal attractions (new attractions in spring, Halloween in fall) to further color your trip. Make sure your kids stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, and international visitors can take advantage of the English app to make their trip smoother and more enjoyable.
The magic and excitement of USJ brought smiles to our family’s faces. The kids screamed at the rides and said, “I want to come back!” on the rides.
Private Wisdom Summary
The USJ trip satisfied the sensibilities and intellectual curiosity that Private Wisdom values. The magic of the theme parks lifted our spirits, and the thrill of the new attractions delivered surprises. The 2025 Halloween event added a special sparkle to the trip. We hope you, too, will enjoy the energetic attractions of USJ and have a heart-pounding trip with your family and loved ones. Let us know your favorite USJ experience in the comments!
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