A Day at Universal Studios Japan

This itinerary takes you from Universal-City Station through the streets of Universal CityWalk Osaka to spend a full day at Universal Studios Japan. From getting ready before entering the park to dining and picking out souvenirs on your way back, everything can be conveniently handled along the street between the station and the park.

History and Local Charm

Universal Studios Japan is a theme park that opened on March 31, 2001, in Konohana Ward, Osaka City. At its grand opening, it featured popular attractions carefully selected from the parks in Hollywood and Florida, alongside new attractions developed specifically for Japan. The origins of Universal Studios date back to 1915, when Carl Laemmle opened a movie studio. Opening the behind-the-scenes filmmaking process to the general public—something previously kept behind closed doors—marked the first step toward movie-themed entertainment. Universal CityWalk Osaka, which connects the station and the park, also opened in 2001. Its American-style streetscape serves as the gateway to the park, elevating the sense of escaping into an extraordinary world.

Key Highlights

• ​Universal CityWalk Osaka​​: A commercial complex offering a wide selection of dining options, from fast food to authentic international cuisines. At Takoyaki Park on the 4th floor, you can sample and compare dishes from popular Osaka takoyaki shops. The 3rd and 4th floors house the Universal Studios Store, one of the largest official stores outside the park.
• ​Universal Studios Japan​​: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which opened in 2014, features the streetscape of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. Super Nintendo World, opened in 2021, is the park's first multi-tiered area, featuring a Mario Kart ride attraction, and was expanded with Donkey Kong Country in 2024. Other highlights include The Flying Dinosaur, a flying roller coaster soaring through the Jurassic Park area, and Minion Park, an area dedicated to the Minions.

Recommended Route and Duration

This itinerary is designed to be enjoyed over a full day. Direct train service from JR Osaka Station to Universal-City Station takes about 10 minutes. Universal CityWalk Osaka is located right outside the station exits, leading directly to the park. At the official store on the 3rd floor connected to the station, you can choose items to wear inside the park before entering. The dressing room area on the 4th floor includes a makeup room, fitting rooms, and coin lockers, making it convenient for changing clothes and storing luggage when arriving at or leaving the park. After exiting the park, you can enjoy dining or pick up additional souvenirs at CityWalk. On select evenings, the "SPECTA" light and sound show is held at the Center Court on the 3rd floor. If you plan to visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in Osaka Port the following day, the Captain Line shuttle boat connects Universal City Port to the aquarium in about a 10-minute voyage.

Experience Summary

What began as an unveiling of behind-the-scenes movie sets at Universal Studios has now expanded into immersive experiences across a diverse range of works, including Hollywood films and Japanese anime. Stroll through the American-inspired streets toward the park, and savor the lingering excitement of the day on your way back. Spend a complete, fulfilling day in Osaka's bay area.