USJ Ticket Prices 2026: Express Pass & Donkey Kong Guide

Universal Studios Japan, Osaka

Ticket Types, Nintendo World & Donkey Kong

Words & Photos © Pangeuni

If you're heading to Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is an absolute must-visit. This theme park enthusiast always makes a stop here, and it seems like there's always something new popping up!

To make the most of your visit, it pays to do a little research beforehand. If this is your first time at USJ, I've put together a comprehensive guide covering everything from ticket types and booking tips to navigating Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and more for an unforgettable experience!

1. Universal Studios Japan Ticket Types

1. Admission Ticket (Required)

This is your basic entry ticket to Universal Studios Japan. It grants access to all rides and attractions, but prices vary by date.

2. Express Pass (Optional, but highly recommended!)

An Express Pass lets you skip the regular lines for select attractions, getting you on rides faster. Different Express Pass packages include varying numbers and types of attractions, and while they can be pricey, they are absolutely worth it! 💸

3. Area Timed Entry & e-Tickets

These grant you guaranteed entry into popular themed areas like Super Nintendo World. While you used to need to secure these separately from your basic admission ticket, as of October 16, 2026, free entry has often been available depending on park congestion!

2. Admission Tickets

Universal Studios Japan admission tickets MUST be purchased online (no onsite ticket sales). Tickets typically become available approximately two months in advance, so it's crucial to check if tickets for your desired visit date have been released! [ ▶ Check Dates ]

(As of November 5, 2026, tickets are available through January 6, 2027.)

Since admission tickets are essential, make sure to purchase them in advance. You can often find them for about ~$1 cheaper on authorized partner sites compared to the official USJ website.

Universal Studios Japan Express Pass - Klook3ha.in

3. Express Passes

If you want to experience the most popular rides without spending hours in line, purchasing an Express Pass is highly recommended! The recently opened Donkey Kong's Crazy Cart in Super Nintendo World often sees wait times exceeding 180 minutes. Mario Kart averages 120 minutes, and Yoshi's Adventure frequently hits over 70 minutes.

Express Passes come in various options, typically Express Pass 4, 5, 7, and 8. The number indicates how many attractions are included, and the specific rides vary by package. So, if you're determined to ride Donkey Kong's Crazy Cart, make sure to select a package that includes it!

For thrill-seekers, I highly recommend the Race & Tram Car Special, which typically includes Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, Minion Mayhem, The Flying Dinosaur, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

Keep in mind, you can't just buy an Express Pass on its own; you MUST purchase both an Admission Ticket AND an Express Pass. I usually buy mine through Klook, which does an excellent job of organizing the various Express Pass options.

▶ Purchase Admission Tickets (Required, 1 Day Studio Pass = Admission Ticket)

▶ Purchase Express Pass (Optional)

After comparing Klook, MyRealTrip, and Trip.com, I found that USJ admission tickets and Express Pass prices are generally similar across all platforms. Your best bet is to check for any credit card benefits or promotions offered by each partner.

4. Area Timed Entry, e-Tickets

▪️Area Timed Entry : A ticket that grants access to specific themed areas like Super Nintendo World.

▪️e-Ticket : A digital ticket downloaded via the official USJ app on the day of your visit to enter Super Nintendo World (free).

While in the past, an Area Timed Entry ticket or e-Ticket was required to enter Super Nintendo World, entry is now often granted freely depending on park congestion!

On the day I visited, I was able to enter Super Nintendo World without a timed entry ticket!

If you prefer to play it safe, you can book a package that includes both an Admission Ticket + Super Nintendo World Area Timed Entry.

However, if you purchase an Express Pass that includes Super Nintendo World attractions, you won't need to acquire a separate timed entry ticket.

▶ Admission Ticket + Super Nintendo World Area Timed Entry

5. Universal Studios Japan Recommended Itinerary & Timing

Follow this itinerary for a perfect day at Universal Studios Japan! ❤️

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