The 7 Universal Studios Japan Secrets Only Seasoned Travelers Know (And How to Skip the Lines)
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is one of the most iconic and unforgettable destinations in Osaka. But if you head there like the average tourist, you'll end up stuck in long lines and wasting loads of time on things that aren't fun. Luckily after a few trips and some insider tips, we cracked the code. Here are 7 Universal Studios secrets only seasoned travelers know — and how you can use them to have the best day at Universal Studios!
Tom Purcell
5/12/20252 min read
1. Get an Express Pass (But Choose the Right One)
If you're serious about avoiding 2+ hour waits, buy an Express Pass in advance. Not all Express Passes cover the same rides, so check which ones include "The Flying Dinosaur," "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey," and "Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge."
Pro Tip: The Express Passes do sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Grab one the moment you book your tickets.
2. Arrive Before the Gates Open (Way Before)
Universal Studios Japan often opens the gates 30–60 minutes earlier than the official time posted. Serious visitors arrive at least 1 hour early to grab a good spot at rope drop.
Beat the crowds, race to Nintendo World first, and enjoy popular rides without insane waits.
3. Go Left at the Entrance
Everyone’s natural instinct is to turn right after entering. Seasoned travelers go left and hit attractions on the far side first.
Starting in areas like "Jaws" or "WaterWorld" first lets you enjoy quieter rides while the crowds rush into Mario and Harry Potter.
4. Saily eSIM = Your Secret Weapon (Wi-Fi is Bad!)
Public Wi-Fi around Universal Studios Japan is spotty at best, and once inside, it's basically nonexistent.
Don’t risk being stranded without data (especially if you’re coordinating with friends or checking ride wait times!). We used Saily eSIM for our trip and it was a game-changer — instant connection, no SIM card swapping, and great speeds even inside the park.
Pro Tip: Set up your Saily eSIM before you fly to Japan — it takes less than 5 minutes.
5. Single Rider Lines Are Your Best Friend
Not many visitors realize that single rider lines are available for major rides like "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man" and "Hollywood Dream."
If you're willing to ride separately from your group, you can cut your wait time by more than half. Total cheat code.
6. Don’t Sleep on the Shows
While everyone rushes to rides, seasoned visitors know some of USJ's shows are mind-blowing.
WaterWorld, in particular, is a hidden gem — pyrotechnics, stunts, and explosions. Plus, it’s a great way to sit down, recharge, and still experience something epic.
7. Stay Close — Trust Us
After a 10-hour day at Universal Studios Japan, you’ll thank yourself for booking a hotel nearby.
We stayed at the Park Front Hotel and it was perfect — less than a 5-minute walk to the park gates, very reasonably priced and the breakfast was really good too.
Skip the long train rides back to downtown Osaka and crash in luxury right next to the fun.
Tip: Book early! Hotels near USJ fill up fast, especially during Japanese holidays and summer vacation.
Final Thoughts
If you follow these 7 seasoned traveler secrets, you’ll avoid the rookie mistakes, experience Universal Studios Japan the right way, and maybe even feel like you’ve unlocked a cheat code.
Don't forget: set up your Saily eSIM, book your Express Pass, and stay close to the park for the ultimate stress-free trip.
Save this guide for later!