Best Rides at Universal Studios Japan for Every Type of Traveller
If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, there’s a good chance Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is already on your list — and honestly, it totally deserves a spot.
Credit: @rollercoasterlights on Instagram
As someone who’s a big fan of the park, I can say there’s nothing quite like walking through its different themed zones and suddenly feeling like you’ve stepped into a movie. From fast-paced roller coasters to detailed worlds like Harry Potter and Super Nintendo, there’s always something that pulls you in.
After a few visits (and way too many rides), I’ve put together a list of my personal favourites — the ones I keep going back for. Whether you’re all about adrenaline or just want to soak up the atmosphere, there’s something here for you!
🚨 USJ Ticket Booths to Stop Operations on 6 May
Universal Studios Japan has announced that the physical ticket booths at the entrance area will stop operating on 6 May 2025. This means that you will no longer be able to buy your USJ tickets in person.
We highly recommend booking your USJ Studio Pass and Express Pass ahead of time on Klook, USJ's official ticketing partner! Not only will you be able to enter USJ easily with the QR code on your Klook app, you will also be able to enjoy additional savings on USJ combo deals exclusively on Klook!
1) The Flying Dinosaur
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Located in the Jurassic Park zone, this is USJ’s wildest thrill ride. You're strapped into a flying position (face-down!) and launched into a 1,124-metre-long roller coaster featuring five inversions, including a pretzel loop and corkscrews.
At speeds hitting 100km/h, it’s not for the faint of heart — but if you're an adrenaline junkie, this is a must-ride.
- 📍 Zone: Jurassic Park
- 🎢 Thrill Level: Extreme
- 🕒 Tip: Wait times get long — use a Universal Studios Japan Express Pass to skip the queue!
2) Hollywood Dream: The Ride
This sleek steel coaster races through the Hollywood zone with an added twist — you can choose your own music! The ride combines smooth drops and airtime hills with some serious style.
Credit: @breakingbrad505 on Instagram
Want an extra challenge? Try Hollywood Dream: Backdrop, the backwards version of the ride — it’s disorienting in the best way.
- 📍 Zone: Hollywood
- 🎧 Cool Feature: Personal audio playlist
3) Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness
This brand-new ride in the Donkey Kong Country expansion of Super Nintendo World brings one of the most iconic levels in gaming history to life — the mine cart stage.
Credit: Universal Studios Japan
Thanks to a unique coaster system, the mine cart appears to jump across broken tracks, just like in the games. It’s fast, packed with motion effects, and full of classic Donkey Kong theming — jungle landscapes, exploding barrels, and catchy retro music.
It’s not just visually impressive; the ride tech is next-level and totally unlike anything else in the park.
- 📍 Zone: Donkey Kong Country (within Super Nintendo World)
- 🛤 Highlight: “Jumping track” coaster system
- 🎫 Note: Access requires timed entry to Super Nintendo World — book a Studio Pass + SUPER NINTENDO WORLD entry via Klook to secure your spot!
4) Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Step into Hogwarts Castle and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione on this award-winning motion-based dark ride. You’ll soar over the castle, dodge Dementors, and encounter magical creatures along the way.
Even the queue through Hogwarts is an experience — complete with talking portraits and Dumbledore’s office.
- 📍 Zone: Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- ✨ Highlight: Full immersion into the Harry Potter universe
5) Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Found in Super Nintendo World, this ride puts you in the driver’s seat of your very own Mario Kart. With augmented reality (AR) headsets, you’ll drift, launch shells, and collect coins in a real-time race against Bowser and crew.
Credit: @scenesfromjapan on Instagram
It’s interactive, visually stunning, and unlike anything else in the park.
- 📍 Zone: Super Nintendo World
- 🕹 Type: Interactive dark ride with AR
6) Space Fantasy: The Ride
Credit: @s_knnun on Instagram
Don’t sleep on this indoor spinning coaster! You’ll journey through space to revive the Sun while dodging asteroids and collecting stardust. With immersive projections and sudden twists, this ride is equal parts trippy and thrilling.
- 📍 Zone: Hollywood
- 🌌 Type: Indoor spinning coaster
- 💡 Ideal for medium thrill lovers or those who want a sci-fi theme.
7) Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Credit: @kureha_015 on Instagram
Bananaaa! This simulator ride in Minion Park transforms you into a minion and throws you into hilarious mayhem with Gru and the gang. It’s bouncy, vibrant, and great for kids — and secretly fun for adults too.
- 📍 Zone: Minion Park
- 👨👩👧 Type: Motion simulator
- 📸 Don't miss: Tons of photo spots in Minion Park!
8) Jurassic Park: The Ride
Back in action after a refurbishment, this water-based boat ride begins calmly — until your raft veers into the raptor enclosure. The final 25-meter plunge is legendary, and yes, you will get wet.
- 📍 Zone: Jurassic Park
- 🦖 Highlight: Giant T-Rex animatronic + epic finale drop
- 🌂 Tip: Bring a poncho — or buy one there.
9) Flight of the Hippogriff – Scenic and Family-Friendly
This junior coaster is perfect for those looking for a gentler thrill in the Wizarding World. Glide past Hagrid’s Hut, spot the Hippogriff, and take in great views of Hogwarts Castle from above.
- 📍 Zone: Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- 🎢 Type: Family coaster
- 📸 Fun Fact: It’s one of the best places for castle selfies.
10) JAWS
Board a tour boat in Amity Village, only to be attacked by a massive animatronic shark. With pyrotechnics, water splashes, and live acting, this ride brings the classic film to life in spectacular fashion.
- 📍 Zone: Amity Village
- 🦈 Type: Boat ride with live effects
- 💡 The skipper’s reactions make every ride a little different.
Where can I buy Universal Studios Japan tickets?
Skip the long waiting times and grab your 1-day Studio Pass from Klook and enjoy instant confirmation on your booking! If you wish to spend more time in Universal Studios Japan, 1.5-day and 2-day Studio Passes are also available.
Your Universal Studios Japan Adventure Awaits!
And there you have it — a roundup of the best rides at Universal Studios Japan that you won’t want to miss. Whether you're in it for the heart-pounding coasters or the immersive movie worlds, USJ truly has something for everyone.
To make the most of your visit, be sure to plan ahead. Booking your tickets and Express Passes early — either through the official site or a trusted partner like Klook — can save you hours of queue time.
So, which ride are you most excited to try? Share your thoughts in the comments — and get ready for an unforgettable day at the park!
FAQ: Visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
What are the must-ride attractions at Universal Studios Japan?
Some of the most popular rides include The Flying Dinosaur, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, and the new Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness. These rides tend to have the longest queues, so try to hit them early or use an Express Pass.
Do I need a separate ticket for Super Nintendo World or Donkey Kong Country
No, access is included with your USJ admission ticket. However, timed entry is required for Super Nintendo World. Reserve your slot via the official app or pre-book through Klook to guarantee entry.
Is the Express Pass worth it?
Yes — especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or during holiday seasons. The Universal Studios Japan Express Pass lets you skip lines for top attractions and can save hours of waiting time.
Are there rides suitable for young kids or families?
Definitely! Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Flight of the Hippogriff, and rides in Universal Wonderland are great for younger visitors and those looking for gentler experiences.
When is the best time to visit USJ to avoid long lines?
Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) outside of Japanese public holidays or school breaks are your best bet. Arrive before park opening for a better shot at getting on popular rides with shorter wait times.
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