Movie fan review: Must-See Places in Universal Studios Japan

Osaka is always a blast but this trip was pure theme park madness 🤩🎢 Universal Studios Japan is basically geek paradise—especially if you’re obsessed with Harry Potter and Nintendo! Here’s my top spots rundown and what you seriously shouldn’t miss:

Must-See Places in Universal Studios Japan, Osaka:

🧙♂️ The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter (2 Chome-1 Sakurajima): Open 8:30-21:30 (check dates for special hours!). Snap a pic at the Hogwarts Express, buy a wand, and get magical at every turn. The souvenir stores here are a treasure trove—don’t rush! Hit every shop (Owl Post, Filch’s Emporium, & Honeydukes) for gifts you can’t get anywhere else.

🍗 Hog’s Head (〒554-0031 Osaka, Konohana Ward, Sakurajima, 2 Chome−1−1): Grab butterbeer (try both hot & cold!) and their roast meat platter to keep your energy up.

🏰 Hogwarts Castle: Open year-round, 8:30-21:30. Don’t skip the castle walkthrough—super Insta-worthy, and full of little details for Potterheads.

🍄 Super Mario Land / Super Nintendo World (2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima): Live out your Nintendo dreams! Do the Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge (mind-blowing AR tech), ride Yoshi’s Adventure, and explore Donkey Kong Country. Power-up bands add a fun gaming layer.

🤤 Universal Wonderland & Snoopy Studios: For a chill vibe or younger travelers, hit these colorful zones for cute photo ops and some classic rides.

🦈 Jaws: The Ride: Take a break from wizarding with old-school thrills—this one’s got more bite than you expect!

Tips:
Start early—lines fill fast, especially in Harry Potter village and Nintendo areas. Buy tickets online at trip.com to save time. Public transport is crazy efficient; take the JR Yumesaki Line straight to Universal City Station. Bring a power bank—photos everywhere! Tokyo Disney is fab, but honestly, Osaka has the edge for die-hard gamers and movie fans.

Don’t miss the diverse snacks (popcorn buckets, Mario-themed treats) and stock up on limited edition souvenirs. Weather is humid May–Sep, so dress light, but bring a light jacket in Oct.

#universalstudiosjapan #osakatravels #harrypottervillage #nintendoworld #tripdotcom

Post by Agustin (@agustintravel) | Sep 11, 2025