Universal Studios Japan Tickets 2026: Express Pass & Open Run Guide

Planning your first trip to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka can feel like navigating a maze of tickets! With Studio Passes, Timed Entry Passes, Standby Passes, and Express Passes, it's easy to get confused about what you actually need. Don't worry, I've got you covered!

I'll break down all the USJ ticket types, share my personal experience from a busy spring break season "open run," and show you how to choose the best tickets for your visit.

How to Enter Super Nintendo World

Without a doubt, Super Nintendo World is the most popular area in USJ. If you arrive super early and the park isn't too crowded, you might be able to enter with just your basic Studio Pass. However, as the day progresses and crowds build, you'll need a special pass to get in.

These special passes come in two main types: a Timed Entry Pass (which you purchase) and a Standby Pass (free, first-come, first-served).

If you miss out on both of those, there's sometimes a lottery ticket option, but as the name suggests, it's a game of chance and doesn't guarantee entry.

Types of USJ Tickets

📌 Universal Studios Japan Ticket Breakdown

1. Universal Studio Pass (Required for Entry)

: This is your fundamental entry ticket, granting you access to Universal Studios Japan.

2. Super Nintendo World Timed Entry Pass

: A paid ticket that guarantees your entry into Super Nintendo World at a specific time. You can often purchase this in advance.

3. Super Nintendo World Standby Pass

: This is a free, first-come, first-served ticket to enter Super Nintendo World. It cannot be reserved beforehand; you must enter USJ first and then obtain it through the official app or designated kiosks. This is why an "open run" is often recommended to secure one early.

4. Super Nintendo World Lottery Ticket

: If you miss out on the Standby Pass, you might be able to apply for a lottery. However, as it's a draw, your chances of success are quite low.

5. Express Pass

: This is different from an entry ticket; it's a pass that lets you skip the regular lines for popular rides. Many Express Pass packages include a Super Nintendo World Timed Entry Pass, but typically, the basic Studio Pass is *not* included and must be purchased separately.

Which Tickets Should You Buy?

So, with all these options, what's the best choice for you?

✅ If you're planning an early morning "open run", a basic Studio Pass is usually enough to get you into Super Nintendo World and on a few rides before the major crowds hit.

✅ If you can't do an "open run" but absolutely want to visit Super Nintendo World, I recommend purchasing a package that includes both your Studio Pass and a Super Nintendo World Timed Entry Pass.

✅ If you simply hate waiting in long lines for rides, regardless of whether you do an "open run" or not, the combination of a Studio Pass + Express Pass will give you the most relaxed and efficient experience.

Ticket Prices

While base prices are similar across different booking sites, Klook often offers the best coupon deals.

>Check Universal Studios Japan Prices on Klook<

Make sure to carefully review the different package types before purchasing. Use the discount codes below to save on your booking!

📌 Discount Codes

세시간전260001 : Save ~$1 on purchases over ~$36

세시간전260002 : Save ~$2 on purchases over ~$73

세시간전260003 : Save ~$5 on purchases over ~$219

The Express Pass Explained

Let's delve a bit deeper into the Express Pass. If you're traveling with parents, young children, or anyone who might struggle with long waits, I wholeheartedly recommend getting an Express Pass.

During my "open run," I waited about 30 minutes for Donkey Kong Country, but by the time I was almost at the front, the official app showed the wait time had already soared to 150 minutes! That's over two hours!

You'll need to choose from pre-defined attraction combinations, so always check the package details before purchasing to see exactly which rides are included. While the Express Pass generally lets you bypass the main queues for included attractions, some attractions may have designated entry times. It's a good idea to have a rough entry time for USJ in mind when you buy to align with these.

>Check Express Pass Prices<

The same discount codes apply here!

세시간전260001 : Save ~$1 on purchases over ~$36

세시간전260002 : Save ~$2 on purchases over ~$73

세시간전260003 : Save ~$5 on purchases over ~$219

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My "Open Run" Experience

I arrived at Universal Studios Japan around 6:30 AM, and even then, the crowds were already massive! I visited during a peak Japanese spring break season, so even on a weekday, the park was absolutely packed.

Security checks started around 7:30 AM, and I finally made it inside the park around 8:00 AM.

I immediately dashed towards Super Nintendo World and managed to ride Donkey Kong Country in about 30 minutes. However, Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge had me waiting for over an hour! If you're unsure where to run first, don't worry – just follow the crowd! Everyone will be heading straight for Super Nintendo World. 😂

Good news for Harry Potter fans: you can enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter without a Timed Entry Pass! When I checked around 3:00 PM, the regular wait time for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey was about 100 minutes. But by using the single rider line, I was on the ride in just about 20 minutes!

Beyond that, I also got to enjoy Mario Kart and the WaterWorld show – pretty much everything I wanted to experience! If you have any more questions, feel free to leave a comment below!

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