You don't need an Express Pass with this guide to Universal Studios Osaka
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka has a great overall atmosphere, and it's the most enthusiastic of the four Universal Studios parks I've visited. However, without a good strategy, you'll end up waiting in long lines and might miss the Nintendo area, so I've put together the following guide:
✅【Preparation】
❶ Purchase tickets online in advance, then download the USJ app and link your tickets.
❷ Bring 100-yen coins (for lockers), disposable raincoats (you might get wet on water rides), and a water bottle.
❸ Bring a power bank and other electronic devices.
⭐️【On the Day】
❶ Operating hours: Generally from 8 AM to 9/10 PM, but it varies daily, so be sure to check in advance before you go.
❷ Those who enter first can head straight to Nintendo (if you enter early, you don't need a timed entry ticket to play, see USJ live for details), or you can draw a digital timed entry ticket using the USJ app after scanning your ticket to enter the park, and choose a suitable time.
❸ If you don't get a free digital timed entry ticket, you can also buy one on-site at the Nintendo area entrance (limited quantity, 2000 yen), with a designated entry time.
📮【Tour Order】
❶ Nintendo: Includes Mario Kart, Yoshi's Adventure (a train ride through the Mario area), and Power Up Band Challenges.
❷ Harry Potter: 4D experience, Hippogriff flight.
❸ Hollywood: Demon Slayer XR experience - a must-go, Hollywood Dream ride, 4D experience area.
❹ Minions: Mischievous ride.
❺ Jurassic Park: Flying Dinosaur coaster, boat ride.
❻ WaterWorld: Multiple shows available, check USJ for schedule, showtimes vary by month.
❼ Amity Village: Jaws.
❽ Universal Wonderland: A mix of various IPs, great for photos.
❾ Parade: There's only one at 2 PM, goes around Hollywood, with characters like Mario and Pokémon coming out for a close-up celebration, great atmosphere, see image 1 for the parade route.
❤️【Ticket Purchase】
For those worried about not being good at Japanese or not knowing how to buy tickets, you can purchase them on Ctrip. Remember to book in advance and check the official website for operating hours before you go.