USJ Ticket Prices 2026: Express Pass & Entry Guide
Is the Universal Studios Japan Express Pass worth the splurge? Here's everything you need to know about 2026 ticket prices and skipping the lines.
If you're traveling to Osaka, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is an absolute must-visit theme park.
While the ticket prices might seem a bit steep at first glance, the experience is worth every penny.
One of the biggest dilemmas for visitors is whether to buy the optional Express Pass, which often costs more than the park admission itself.
I bought it, tested it, and here is my honest review!
I highly recommend dedicating a full day of your Osaka itinerary just for USJ.
It's the best way to ensure you don't miss out on anything, and most travelers plan their trip this way.
Getting there from central Osaka is a breeze—usually just one quick train transfer.
Because there's so much to see and ride, try to arrive early and stay until the spectacular evening shows.
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the admission cost.
It's quite an investment, especially for first-time visitors, but the sheer scale and quality of the park justify it.
The park is notoriously crowded year-round.
Waiting over an hour for a single popular attraction is standard, which can quickly drain your energy.
This is where the Express Pass comes in—you're essentially buying time.
It's an add-on to your standard admission, meaning you have to pay a significant amount on top of your base ticket.
The only real downside is the cost.
But if you look past that, it guarantees entry to Super Nintendo World and lets you skip the massive lines for your chosen rides, making your day incredibly efficient.
Is it absolutely necessary? Not necessarily.
But based on my first-hand experience, I want to share exactly how it works so you can decide if it's right for your 2026 trip.
USJ Ticket Prices & Discounts
Like most major theme parks, USJ uses dynamic pricing.
This means tickets cost more on weekends and peak holiday seasons compared to quieter weekdays.
I always compare prices, and Klook consistently offers great deals and seamless booking.
Prices fluctuate based on your selected date, so it's best to check their calendar. They frequently run seasonal promotions, so keep an eye out for discounts!
You might be wondering, "Can I just buy the cheapest ticket and go on a different day?"
Unfortunately, no. Your ticket is tied to a specific pricing tier.
When you check your voucher, you'll see your purchased tier (mine was "C" at the time) and the valid entry dates.
You can only enter on dates that match your ticket's designated tier.
Honestly, 1.5-day or 2-day passes aren't very time-efficient unless you're staying at a hotel right next to the park.
For most travelers, a 1-day Studio Pass is the perfect choice.
Book Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass on Klook
Make sure to use the link above to check for the latest 2026 promotions and secure your tickets before they sell out!
What's Included in a Standard Ticket?
With a basic Studio Pass, you have access to almost all rides in the park.
The catch? You have to wait in the standby lines. Unlike Disney, USJ doesn't sell individual skip-the-line passes per ride; they only use the bundled Express Pass system.
The park also hosts incredible seasonal parades and stage shows.
These are entirely free to watch with your standard admission—just check the daily schedule on the app to catch them.
Here's some great news: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter no longer requires a timed entry ticket!
You can freely walk in and out of Hogsmeade at any time.
However, the highly popular Super Nintendo World is a different story.
To guarantee entry into the Mario-themed area, you need a package or an Express Pass that explicitly includes a timed entry slot.
If you don't want to pay extra, your options are either running there the second the park opens (rope drop) or entering the free "Area Timed Entry Ticket" lottery via the official USJ app once you're inside.
Since the app lottery is purely luck-based, there's a real chance you might not get in.
If Super Nintendo World is a must-do for you, I highly recommend booking a ticket package that includes guaranteed entry.
Alternatively, grabbing an Express Pass that includes a Super Nintendo World timed entry ticket is the most stress-free way to enjoy the park.
Is the Express Pass Worth It?
Think of the Express Pass as a VIP upgrade.
It's sold separately from your park admission and is often more expensive, but it completely changes your day.
The passes are categorized by numbers, usually Express Pass 4 or Express Pass 7.
The number indicates exactly how many rides you get to skip the line for.
A crucial tip: Don't just buy any pass based on the number and price!
You must check the specific list of rides included and verify if it has the Super Nintendo World Area Timed Entry Ticket.
Each Express Pass has a pre-determined set of attractions.
You can't just choose any 4 or 7 rides on the spot; you have to follow the specific itinerary you purchased.
Book USJ Express Pass on Klook
Express Passes sell out incredibly fast, often weeks in advance.
If you know your travel dates, book them immediately. The best combinations are always the first to go.
My Honest Review
I debated for a long time before my first visit, but ultimately decided to buy both the Studio Pass and the Express Pass.
I chose the Express Pass 7 to maximize my time.
Funnily enough, I didn't even use all 7 skip-the-line privileges.
I got distracted by the amazing street performances and spent way too much time exploring the immersive zones.
But looking back, the only reason I was able to experience so much of the park in a single day—without feeling completely exhausted—was because of that initial investment.
If you're a thrill-seeker who wants to hit every major coaster, time management is your biggest enemy.
The Express Pass removes that stress entirely.
Plus, you'll want time to browse the incredible merchandise, grab themed snacks, and take photos.
Even with a full day, the park closes before you know it!
In total, I spent about ~$230 per person for the admission and Express Pass combined.
While I might not splurge like that on every visit, for a first-time or milestone trip, it was 100% worth it.
If you visit Osaka frequently, you might opt for a more relaxed approach next time.
But if I'm bringing someone who has never been, I'm buying the Express Pass again without hesitation.
My final verdict? If your budget allows for it, get the Express Pass.
It elevates your entire day from a tiring marathon of queues to a premium, unforgettable adventure.
Check out the latest 2026 packages and ticket tiers on Klook to find the perfect fit for your itinerary.
Universal Studios Japan truly exceeded all my expectations, and I know it will blow you away too.
Yes, the upfront cost is high, but the memories are priceless. Have an amazing trip!
📍 Universal Studios Japan
2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031 Japan
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