Visit Osaka

Tag: days out in osaka

  • The Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Japan (USJ): Tips, Attractions, and Costs

    The Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Japan (USJ): Tips, Attractions, and Costs

    When visiting Osaka, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is an absolute must-see destination. Known for its thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and world-class attractions, USJ offers something for everyone. In this guide, I’ll cover everything from entry tips and queue-beating strategies to the best rides, food options, and costs.

    How do you get to USJ?

    USJ is located in the Konohana Ward of Osaka, easily accessible via public transport. Take the JR Yumesaki Line from Osaka Station to Universal City Station. The journey takes just 15-minutes and costs approximately 180 yen.

    Tips for Entry and Beating the Queues

    Buy Tickets in Advance: Purchase tickets online or from authorised retailers to avoid long queues at the gate. Prices for a 1-day studio pass are around 8,600 yen (£50) for adults and 5,600 yen (£32) for children.

    • Arrive Early: The park opens at 8:30 AM, but arriving an hour early gives you a head start to popular attractions.
    • Use the Universal Express Pass: This add-on (starting from 7,800 yen/£45) lets you skip the lines at select rides. Options include Express 4 Pass (4 attractions) or Express 7 Pass (7 attractions).
    • Visit on Weekdays: Weekends and holidays can be packed. Aim for a weekday visit during non-peak seasons (March-May, September-November).
    • Download the USJ App: Use the app for real-time updates on ride wait times, park maps, and show schedules.
    • Plan Your Route: Start with the most popular rides (e.g., The Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and work your way through the park.

    Do I need timed entry tickets at USJ?

    Yes – USJ often requires timed entry tickets for certain popular attractions or areas, such as the Super Nintendo World. These timed-entry tickets are typically free but must be reserved in advance or on the day of your visit using the official USJ app or kiosks in the park.

    Here’s how tickets work:

    • General Admission: You only need a regular park ticket to enter the park itself.
    • Timed Entry Areas: For specific zones like Super Nintendo World, you need a timed entry ticket in addition to your regular ticket. These can be reserved through the app or distributed on-site, depending on availability.

    To ensure a smooth visit, I recommend you download the Universal Studios Japan app to reserve timed entry tickets as soon as they become available OR arrive very early if you plan to secure these tickets in the park.

    What are the main attractions and rides at USJ?

    The Wizarding World of Harry Potter:

    • Ride: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (4K 3D experience inside Hogwarts).
    • Tip: Get a timed-entry ticket to secure your spot in this popular area.

    Super Nintendo World:

    • Rides: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure.
    • Highlights: Interactive activities using a Power-Up Band (3,800 yen/£22).

    Jurassic Park:

    • Ride: The Flying Dinosaur (a thrilling rollercoaster). Perfect for adrenaline junkies!

    Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: A 3D ride perfect for families.

    Hollywood Dream: The Ride: A high-speed rollercoaster with optional backward seating (Backdrop).

    Spider-Man: The Ride 4K3D: A multi-sensory superhero experience.

    What is there to eat at USJ?

    • Butterbeer: A must-try drink in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (non-alcoholic, 800 yen/£4.70).
    • Mario-themed Treats: Super Nintendo World offers adorable snacks like Block popcorn buckets and Toad’s Cafe dishes (1,500–2,500 yen/£9-£14).
    • Classic Theme Park Food: Turkey legs (950 yen/£5.50), churros (600 yen/£3.50), and themed bento boxes.
    • Fine Dining: Try Amity Landing Restaurant for seafood or Finnegan’s Bar & Grill for Western dishes (2,000–3,500 yen/£11-£20 per meal).

    When is the best time to visit USJ?

    While USJ is a great attraction all-year round. Spring is the bestt time to visit (March-May) as you will enjoy pleasant weather and cherry blossoms nearby. Autumn (September-November) provides cooler temperatures and fun Halloween-themed events.

    Avoid Peak Seasons: Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and school holidays.

    How much does USJ cost?

    USJ is insanely cheap compared to other Universal Studios around the world and you can buy an annual pass for just 38,400 yen (£222) that grants you access all year round! I’ve provided a cost comparison table below to help you.

    ItemCost in YenCost in GBP
    1-Day Studio Pass (Adult)8,600£50
    1-Day Studio Pass (Child)5,600£32
    Express Pass (From)7,800£45
    Food (Per Meal)2,000–3,500£11–£20
    Power-Up Band3,800£22
    Souvenirs (Average)1,000–5,000£5.50–£29

    Is one day at USJ enough?

    Yes – If you get there early, and plan ahead, you can tick off all of the rides you want to go on within one-day. I highly recommend booking a timed entry ticket to the popular rides such as Nintendo World in advance using the app, OR as soon as you get to the park!

  • The perfect day out at Osaka Waterfront Park & Beach

    The perfect day out at Osaka Waterfront Park & Beach

    Have you been running around Japan trying to fit in all of the popular tourist destinations? Do you just want to relax and rest your weary legs. Well, keep reading, because I know just the place for you and in my opinion it is located in the nicest area of Osaka.

    If you’re like me and thought you would need to travel for hours on trains to reach the nearest beach, you’ll be delighted to know that the Osaka Waterfront Park contains a man-made beach & it is beautiful. The even better news, is that you can get there by walking through Osaka Caste Park, or hopping off the Osaka Loop Line at Sakuranomiya Station.

    Rent a bike

    If you would like to rent a bike for the day, you can do so from near the station. I recommend using https://roadbikerentaljapan.com/, as they have a bike store directly near the station. Renting a bike is easy and affordable at ¥7,000 (£36) per day, and it’s a great way to explore the park’s dedicated cycling paths. They also do long-term rental if you’re interested. The paths within the park are completely segregated from walking and running paths, so you can ride at your own pace without worrying about pedestrians. I saw quite a few families and couples cycling around, and it looked like a fun way to take in the scenery.

    Spot Wildlife

    Once in the park, you will spot the adorable Nutria or Copyu swimming and bathing near the water (they look like a little bit like otters, but with two large cheetos for teeth!). They are cuter than my description – see the video! They largely keep to themselves and are guarded by fencing throughout most of the park. Locals take photos regularly and feed them food from afar. I also spotted a few herons perching along the harbourside railings.

    Relax on the beach

    After a very short walk, you will arrive at Sakuranomiya Beach. It’s like this little slice of paradise tucked right into the city. When I went, I spent some time relaxing on the sandy shore reading a book and resting my legs. There were groups playing volleyball, and kids paddling around in the water to cool down. It felt so laid-back and inviting, like a hidden gem that not everyone knows about. I recommend coming on a weekday if you can, as it will be quieter than on the weekend.

    Sakuranomiya Beach!

    From the beach, you can continue to walk along the harbour west toward Osaka Castle Park. The promenade is picturesque, with boats touring in the marina and ample places to sit and rest.

    Go on a boat!

    If you want to go on a boat ride, I recommend a ride on the the duck tour! (the first of its kind in Japan!). Hop on board the amphibious bus to explore both land and water without having to change vehicles. Being able to do both land and river at once is double the fun. This is a unique and very fun way to spend part of your day. The tickets are affordable at just ¥1,500 for adults and just ¥750 for kids – and the memories, unforgettable. Floating along the river, on a bus, is such a unique and fun way to experience Osaka.

    Source: https://www.japan-ducktour.com/osaka/

    Is a visit to Osaka Waterfront Park worth it?

    Absolutely! – If you’re ever in Osaka and want to experience something a little more relaxing, I’d definitely recommend spending a day here. Between the peaceful park, the unique boat ride, the sandy beach, and the option to cycle or jog, it’s got something for everyone – and it’s so easy to fall in love with the calm, relaxed vibe of the area. Its also very easy to get to, as mentioned previously you can either walk there, or you can also use the Osaka Loop Line & get off at Sakuranomiya Station. The park is immediately in-front of you.