Tips on planning for USJ!! (2025 ver)
I recently went to USJ in May this year and here are some key things to take note if you are planning on heading to USJ!! 🙂 I went there on a thursday and I did not get the express pass so it was just normal queue for all the rides.
1️⃣ Do download the USJ app! You will need it to get timed entry for Super Nintendo World and it is very useful to check for rides wait times and food. 👍
2️⃣ Do arrive early if you want to get into Super Nintendo World! I recommend at least 1.5h before the official stated park opening time as they usually open earlier then the stated time. They opened more than an hour earlier when I went there!
3️⃣ Run straight to Super Nintendo World and wait outside the area to get the timed entry on the USJ app to get immediate access into the area. There were staffs to help me when I was there.
4️⃣ Go for Donkey Kong ride first if the queue is short! When I was there, there was already a 140mins wait time early in the morning 😥 If the queue is long, it might be better to go for other rides with a shorter wait time at Super Nintendo World as those rides will end up having long wait times once more people enter the area.
5️⃣ Try to have your meals at odd hours as lunch time queues will be very long and difficult to find open spaces to eat as well! 🍴
6️⃣ Don't expect weekdays to have short wait times 🙅♀️ Even though I went on a thursday, the average wait times are still around 60mins.
7️⃣ Possibly more rides will have a shorter wait time (less than 20mins) when it is nearer to the closing time! I did not had to wait at all for harry potter and the forbidden journey ride when I went there 1hour before the park closing time.
Hope these tips are useful and helpful!! 😊
Check out my 3 days itinerary Osaka post on what else to do in Osaka!!
#osaka #universalstudiosjapan #supermarioworld #japantravel #USJ
In addition to the tips shared earlier, one thing I learned through experience is that staying flexible with your schedule can really enhance your USJ visit. For example, if the lines for popular rides like the Donkey Kong ride are too long in the morning, consider enjoying less crowded attractions first and returning later when the queues dwindle. Also, for families or groups visiting together, split strategies can work well. While some members head straight for high-demand rides, others can explore shops or shows nearby and rendezvous later. Keep an eye on the USJ app throughout the day to spot real-time wait times which can fluctuate suddenly. Another tip I found useful was to plan restroom and snack breaks during peak meal hours. The park restaurants get very crowded around noon, so grabbing a quick bite earlier or later saves time and avoids crowds. Lastly, if you’re interested in collecting memories, take advantage of photo spots and character meetups especially near Super Nintendo World, but arrive early or late to avoid heavy crowds. These little extras helped make my visit not just about rides but the whole immersive experience. Remember, USJ often opens gates earlier than the official opening time, so early arrival really pays off. These combined tips helped me enjoy more attractions with less waiting, making my day at Universal Studios Japan truly memorable.
