What is the typical waiting time for the Donkey Kong Tram Car in the newly opened Donkey Kong area at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka?

When our reporter visited, the typical waiting time for the Donkey Kong Tram Car was a staggering 2 hours and 30 minutes. If you use a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass, you can board immediately without waiting.

Can I enter Universal Studios Japan's 'Super Nintendo World' with just a 1-day Studio Pass?

No, Super Nintendo World has a limited entry capacity, so a 1-day Studio Pass alone is not sufficient for entry. You must either get a timed entry ticket via the official app by arriving early at opening, or purchase a combo ticket (Value Combo) that includes a guaranteed entry ticket for Super Nintendo World.

How much more expensive is the Value Combo ticket, which guarantees entry to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan, compared to a basic 1-day Studio Pass?

A basic 1-day Studio Pass starts from around ~$57, while the Value Combo, which guarantees entry to Super Nintendo World, is ~$64. Therefore, the Value Combo is about ~$7 more expensive than the basic pass.

If I can't get an Express Pass at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, are there other ways to reduce waiting times?

If you don't have an Express Pass, you can utilize the Single Rider line. This line allows individual riders to board separately from their group, significantly reducing entry time compared to the regular line.

Universal Studios Japan Osaka Tickets & Express Pass 2026

Today, we're diving deep into Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka! We'll explore the different types of admission and Express Pass tickets, plus give you a sneak peek and review of the newly opened Donkey Kong ride. Get ready for some serious theme park magic! :D

Universal Studios Japan, Osaka

Universal Studios Japan is a must-do for anyone visiting Osaka, Japan. It's so popular that it feels like there's no "off-season" – visitors from all over the world, along with locals, flock here year-round.

With the exciting addition of the new Donkey Kong Country area, the park's popularity has soared even higher. It's not uncommon to arrive right at opening and still struggle to get on all your favorite rides due to massive crowds.

If you're planning your first visit, the array of ticket options – from basic admission and timed entry tickets to Express Passes – can seem a bit confusing.

Don't worry! We'll break down what each ticket means, share essential booking tips to drastically cut down on wait times, and even tell you how to snag some discount coupons.

Admission, Express Pass, and Timed Entry Combo

Before you head to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, it's crucial to understand the difference between a basic admission ticket and the fast-track options that significantly reduce wait times. Grasping these simple concepts will make your planning much easier!

1-Day Studio Pass (Admission Ticket)

Think of the Universal Studios Japan admission ticket as your all-access pass. It's what gets you through the park gates, allows you to explore all the themed areas, and lets you ride the attractions. Essentially, you can't enter USJ without this ticket!

Super Nintendo World Timed Entry Ticket

Super Nintendo World is, without a doubt, the most popular area in USJ. Due to strict capacity limits, you can't just walk in with a basic admission ticket alone.

While you *can* try to "open run" early in the morning and get a timed entry ticket (or "Numbered Ticket") via the official USJ app on a first-come, first-served basis, there's no guarantee you'll succeed. If you miss out, you won't be able to enter the area.

Therefore, if visiting Super Nintendo World is a top priority, we highly recommend purchasing a combo ticket (Value Combo) that includes both the 1-Day Studio Pass and guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World.

For reference, a basic 1-Day Studio Pass starts from around ~$57. The Value Combo, which guarantees entry to Super Nintendo World, is around ~$64. For just an extra ~$7, you get guaranteed access to this incredibly popular area, making it a fantastic value! (Especially recommended if you prefer convenience over waiting in line!)

However, Value Combo tickets tend to sell out quickly, so securing yours in advance is key.

Check Remaining Universal Studios Japan Value Combo Tickets by Date

Universal Studios Express Pass 4 & 7

The Universal Studios Japan Express Pass is a separate ticket that you purchase in addition to your admission ticket.

However, if you have an Express Pass, you can skip the long lines for designated popular attractions and use a dedicated fast lane. It's truly your VIP pass to maximize your time in the park!

The numbers 4 and 7 in the Express Pass name indicate how many popular rides you can skip the line for. For attractions like Donkey Kong or Mario Kart, where standard wait times can easily exceed two hours, using the Express Pass's dedicated line allows you to ride much faster, saving you valuable time and energy. This is why many visitors prioritize getting one!

Once you arrive at Universal Studios Japan, the first place you'll want to rush to is definitely Super Nintendo World. The moment you step inside, you'll feel like you've entered a video game! With countless photo opportunities, it's an absolute must-visit.

Riding the new Donkey Kong ride is a highlight, as the recently opened Donkey Kong Country area is currently the hottest spot at USJ. When I visited, the regular standby wait time was a whopping 2 hours and 30 minutes!

Thanks to my Universal Studios Japan Express Pass, I was able to hop right on without any waiting at all.

If the price of an Express Pass 4 or 7 feels a bit steep, consider using the Value Combo (1-Day Studio Pass + Super Nintendo World timed entry) for a more budget-friendly yet still amazing experience.

It's worth noting that the Donkey Kong ride is not a roller coaster, so it's a fun attraction that even younger kids can easily enjoy.

Mario Kart also had an incredibly long queue, but donning 3D glasses and racing alongside Mario and his friends felt like stepping back into childhood!

If you weren't able to get an Express Pass, I highly recommend making full use of the Single Rider line!

This line is for individuals who don't mind riding separately from their group. It allows you to get on attractions much faster than the regular standby line, significantly cutting down your wait time (if you don't mind not riding with your friends!).

Universal Studios Japan Osaka Insider Tips

It's important to know that Universal Studios Japan in Osaka does not operate a physical ticket booth on-site for general sales. Therefore, all tickets should be booked in advance online, ideally before you even leave home.

While Universal Studios Japan rarely offers discount coupon packs, they do pop up periodically. Keep an eye out for limited-time, first-come, first-served 5% discount coupon packs for the Universal Studios Japan Super Value Combo. (You can often find these via the link below!)

Check Remaining Universal Studios Japan Value Combo Tickets by Date

Universal Studios Japan Super Value Combo - Klook3ha.in

Today, we've covered the different types of admission and Express Pass tickets for Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, a true highlight of any trip to Japan, along with essential booking and discount tips.

Since it's such a popular destination, tickets often sell out rapidly, sometimes within hours of becoming available, typically two months in advance.

Plan your Osaka trip well in advance to ensure a magical and unforgettable visit to Universal Studios Japan!

📍 Universal Studios Japan
2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031 Japan