I have conquered another visit to another Universal Studio branch and this time,it's the one in Osaka! This is actually one of the reasons why my family wanted to go in the said area of Japan because of its breathtaking attractions (which I should say, more unique than in Singapore). But I enjoyed both of it so much (you could read my USSG experience HERE) that I will recommend either of those to be seen!So here's a recap of my tour to USJ.
As usual, we were able to get there by train since going there through a taxi can be very expensive. The theme park has its own station(Universal City) and from Namba, it takes about 5 stops with 2 train changes.
How about an Express Pass? Nope, I didn't make use of that during the trip as it was pricey for the 4 of us. In fact, the entrance line wasn't really long when we went there (we even arrived at 9am) as long as you have your e-vouchers secured. They will just scan it upon entering then that will serve as your ticket for the whole place!See how Japan's technology is so convenient,I love it.Haha❤️ However, it's the rides which have quite a long queue that's why you may consider buying the express pass. This ticket entitles you to take the express lane so the hassle of falling in line for the rides can be reduced. Though truth be told, it doesn't really make any difference especially on the Harry Potter attraction. It's the same thing: you'll have to wait as many people has this pass also even if this is available for tourist only. And there are different e-passes per attraction so be wise of purchasing it ;) Here's a list of it via Klook. The only way of avoiding these long queuing is to go there on a weekday where kids are usually in school.
Basically, there are about 5 main attractions and I will highlight 2 of my most favs in this entry which consumed most of our time in the vicinity.Haha! But first,here are the others:
There was Ernie and Bert there also but I wasn't able to take a pic of it.
Then here's Minion Park..
These yellow creatures are so popular here whether if it's an adult or a child,they all carry this minion popcorn bag which is really cute. It offers free popcorn refill once you buy that item.Likewise,You can also find these around Universal Cool Japan with another design. Besides that, there are other cute finds from Minion Park like the souvenirs and outdoor games. I played one of it as I was hoping to get a good stuffed toy but unfortunately, I lost.lol
It felt like winter...but it's not!Haha
And here's one of the attractions that you shall NOT miss: Harry Potter! Despite the very long walk before reaching its entrance gate, the design of the entire fortress is amazing ❤️ It definitely felt like being in Hogwarts plus the butterbeer,the hedwigs,the cloaks and the wands (oh yes do buy one and try waving it in some of the areas there.You may be able to light a chimney or unlock a gate through that ;D).
Buy wands by choosing your fav HP character!Their souvenirs are also good but it is pricey especially the cloak. However, I think this is a great place for die hard HP fans that you wouldn't resist buying a memorabilia like at least a scarf or a phone keychain. ;)
Never leave this place as well without tasting this drink!You can request with alcohol in it or drink it in a souvenir mug with an additional fee.
Or you could have lunch here and have another glass of this rare beverage.
So this is the 4D-ride inside the castle and it was the BEST.I do have motion sickness on such rides but I just cannot miss this.I wouldn't spoil what's inside yet I gotta say, falling in line for 1hour is totally worth it!
Lastly, here is the newest attraction of USJ: Universal Cool Japan which pays tribute to 3 well known animes namely, Sailormoon, Detective Conan and Final Fantasy.We sadly didn't have much time to try the RPG attraction there as the queuing was longer than the ones in HP. I paid attention to Sailormoon stuff instead which are quite a collector's item if you have grown watching this show!
Wave this wand while watching Sailormoon's 4D ride so you can help her defeat the villain!
Plus, do drop by Detective Conan's cafe and try one of their crepes.Truly delish!❤️
Thus that wraps up my whole trip!I'd like to go for another round someday but next stop,I will be touring another Asian country during the -ber months ;) So see you next year again, Japan!❤️
*Philippine Airlines and JetStar for our flights
*Klook for our USJ vouchers