Wahoo Super Mario fans! The Mario Bros: Universal Studios Japan has officially opened Super Nintendo World and since its opening, lovers of the classic video game have begun to visit the attraction, where the exciting world of Mushroom Kingdom is remade just like how it was from the console!
If you’re planning to visit the exciting world of Super Mario in Universal Studios Japan, there’s one unique item you need to know before you go: the Power-Up Band, which gives you the ultimate experience in Super Nintendo World!
Here’s what you need to know about the magical Power-Up Band in Universal Studios Japan’s exciting Mario world:
- What is a Universal Studios Japan Power-Up Band?
- Where can I buy a Power-Up Band at Universal Studios Japan?
- How do I use the Power-Up Band inside Super Nintendo World?
- What are the Super Nintendo World Key challenges at Universal Studios Japan?
- Are there any limited Power-Up Bands at Super Nintendo World?
- What else do I need to know about Power-Up bands?
1. What is a Universal Studios Japan Power-Up Band?
If you’ve always dreamed of playing Super Mario IRL, then the Power-Up Band helps you make that a reality! With this special wristband, you can finally try your hand at punching a question block and collecting coins — just like in the game.
You may choose your team from six types of Power-Up Bands (one for each character): Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Princess Daisy, Toad, and Yoshi. One band costs JPY3,200 (tax included), and can be linked to your smartphone so you can see your progress and how your team is scoring.
2. Where can I buy a Power-Up Band at Universal Studios Japan?
Excited to have your very own Power-Up Band? You can purchase these on the cart in Super Star Plaza near the entrance of Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan.
To fit more into your day, you can also get a Universal Express Pass that will let you skip the regular lines at most of your favorite rides and attractions. To get your hands on this fantastic pass, simply buy one on Klook, and to level up your experience, purchase a Power Up Band as well at the California Confectionery in the Hollywood area. Make sure to look out for this sign so you know you’re in the right place:
3. How do I use the Power-Up Band Super Nintendo World?
Using your Power-Up Band is easy! All you have to do is put it on your arm, pair it to the official UDJ app via your smartphone, and start recording your adventures in the magical Mario World in Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World.
You can track your progress on the Park app, like how many coins and stamps you have collected so far. You can also check the leaderboard rankings of your friends and other players.
And, if you feel like you’re lagging and want to keep rank, there’s even a handy virtual map where you can see the location of activities, especially those where you can find the five Super Nintendo World keys.
4. What are the Super Nintendo World Key Challenges at Universal Studios Japan?
Collecting the Super Nintendo World keys is one of the main events you can join while wearing your Power-Up Band. There are five total keys in the area! To get them, you and your friends have to win the short challenges along the way.
Feeling pumped? Let’s walk you through the three key challenges (plus the final battle!):
Key Challenge 1: Koopa Troopa Power Punch Key
The first challenge is a single-player game where you have to knock over a Koopa Troopa using a green shell that comes out of a pipe. To knock out your target, you have to find the right timing to hit a POW block that will bounce the shell up to the Koopa Troopa. Don’t worry — there’s a sound effect that will tell you if you hit the block too early or late, so you can easily adjust the timing.
Key Challenge 2: Pac-n-Flower Alarm Panic
This next challenge is perfect for groups of four! Up to four players can join this thrilling game where you have to make sure that the Piranha Plants stay asleep by slamming the ringing alarm clocks off. As many as 12 alarm clocks can ring randomly, so be sure to cooperate with your teammates!
Key Challenge 3: Bomb Hey / Dismembered Puzzle
Next is another multiplayer game that you and three of your friends can participate in. This activity features a giant Bob-omb and involves gathering jigsaw pieces and completing the puzzle within a time limit. But, the twist is that the Bob-omb explodes now and then, which causes the puzzle to fall apart.
Bowser Jr. Final Battle
To enter the final battle, all you need are three keys. Once you’ve won three games, you can proceed to challenge Bowser Jr. for the ultimate final battle!
Hold up to scan your power band at the entrance of Bowser Jr.’s small dungeon to unlock the door to his hideout. When you’re inside, you’ll find out that he stole Princess Peach’s golden mushroom, and it’s up to you and your friends to get it back. Be prepared to use your whole body and unleash Mario or Luigi in you as you crouch and jump your way throughout the challenge.
Up to 12 people can participate in this battle to defeat the biggest villain in the park. You can even collaborate with other guests who are not in your group!
5. Are there any limited Power-Up Bands at Super Nintendo World?
Yes! From March 18th 2023, Universal Studios Japan will be selling limited edition "Golden Power-Up Bands" to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the opening of Super Nintendo World. This Power-Up band is inspired by the Golden Mushroom which debuted in Mario Party 2.
It's still a mystery how many of these special Golden Power-Up bands exist, so don't miss out!
6. What else do I need to know about Power-Up Bands?
Q: What happens if I hit a block without a Power-Up Band?
A. You can't collect coins and stamps without a Power-Up Band. The sound effects also won't operate without the Power-Up Band.
Q. Does the Power-Up Band have different functions depending on the design?
A. All Power-Up Bands have the same functions. The only difference is the team to which you'll belong, which corresponds with your Power-Up Band design.
Q. Can I change to a team different from the design of the Power-Up Band?
A. Nope, you can't change the team. If you want to join a different team, you have to purchase a separate band for that character, so choose wisely!
Q. Does the Power-Up Band need to be charged?
A. No need for that! You can use it without worrying about running out of battery.
Q. Can I use the Power-Up Band many times?
A. Of course! You can use it as much as you want every time you visit the area. You can even continue your progress from your previous visit to Super Nintendo World.
Q. Can I reset the data in my Power-Up Band?
A. Data cannot be reset. Even if you uninstall the official app or cancel the link between the app and the band, you can check the past play record by registering again.
Enjoy a full sensory experience at Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan when you purchase a Power-Up Band. To enjoy a hassle-free visit to USJ, buy your tickets in advance on Klook!