The best Universal Studios Japan rides and shows that you cannot miss!

Universal Studios Japan, also known as USJ, is a popular theme park that's seen a lot of changes over the years. It has 10 different zones, including Super Nintendo World™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Minion Park, and others. Each year, about 13 million people visit, drawn by attractions like the Harry Potter and Nintendo areas. However, this popularity means very long lines, with waits over 200 minutes for the most popular rides.

Here's a tip: the park is big and full of things to do, which can be overwhelming. You might end up wandering around and missing out on the best rides because you're distracted by other attractions. Some areas, like Harry Potter or Nintendo World, can only hold so many people at a time, so you can't stay long. To make the most of your visit, focus on the top rides and shows. This way, you'll save time and see the best parts of the park. Below is a list of the 10 best rides and 6 top shows at USJ to help you plan your visit.

Recommended Universal Studios Japan tickets

Best Universal Studios Japan rides

1. Flight of the Hippogriff™

Zone: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
Duration: 2 minutes

The Flight of the Hippogriff™ ride is perfect for Harry Potter enthusiasts. It's a gentle coaster where you pretend to ride a Hippogriff, a mythical creature with an eagle's head and a horse's body. Guided by Hagrid, you'll navigate near his hut and a pumpkin patch. Ideal for fans of the magical creatures from Harry Potter, this ride usually has a 60-minute wait, so consider an express pass to save time.

2. JAWS

Zone: Amity Village
Duration: 7 minutes

The JAWS ride at Amity Harbour starts as a calm boat tour but quickly turns thrilling when a huge shark attacks. This ride is known for its intense moments, as rifles and fire can't stop the shark with its massive mouth and sharp teeth. It's so powerful it seems like it could bite through the boat! While families often ride together, using the single-rider queue can save time.

3. Hollywood Dream - The Ride

Zone: Hollywood
Duration: 3 minutes

The Hollywood Dream rollercoaster is a thrilling ride located in the Hollywood zone of the park. It's a smooth coaster that doesn't flip you upside down but still has exciting drops and high-speed sections. One cool feature is that you can pick a song to listen to during the ride; for example, you might choose Michael Jackson's "Bad." The ride takes you up a tall lift and then down into dips and around sharp turns, including going over the park's Hollywood area and through a tunnel with flashing lights before it ends.

4. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Zone: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
Duration: 5 minutes

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, located in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Japan, is a must-see. This 4D ride doesn't need glasses to deliver its magic. You'll feel like you're flying in a Quidditch match, dodge a dragon's breath, and face giant spiders, all without leaving Hogwarts Castle. Walking through the castle, you'll see Dumbledore's office, classrooms, and even talking paintings. It's a thrilling mix of the magical world of Harry Potter with the excitement of a roller coaster, creating an unforgettable adventure.

5. Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge

Zone: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™
Duration: 5 minutes

Experience Mario Kart in real life with this new and unique attraction in Japan! Dive into your childhood dreams as you race on tracks inspired by the iconic game. With the latest technology, the Mario Kart ride brings your favorite courses to life. You can even compete against others by throwing shells, just like in the game. Join Mario, Peach, and others in a race to the finish. This interactive ride, a world first, promises an unforgettable adrenaline rush.

6. Elmo's Bubble Bubble

Zone: Universal Wonderland
Duration: 3 minutes

Elmo's Bubble Bubble is a dreamy indoor ride at Universal Studios Japan, perfect for young children. Riders sit on Dorothy, Elmo's goldfish, and navigate a stream filled with bubbles. Created by Elmo, this whimsical journey surrounds you with soap bubbles, making it feel like you're part of Elmo's dream. It's a fun, three-minute experience where you might get a little wet, making it a delightful adventure for kids and their families.

7. Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Zone: Minion Park
Duration: 25 minutes

Join the Minions on an exciting adventure at Despicable Me Minion Mayhem in Minion Park at USJ. This popular 3D motion simulator ride, featuring a giant dome screen, turns you into a Minion. No glasses are needed for this immersive experience. The ride, lasting about 25 minutes, includes a detailed intro video with English subtitles to set the scene. Designed by Gru, the ride takes you through his lab for a dizzying journey of flips and spins, supervised by Gru and his daughters. Dive into the Minions' chaotic world for a heartwarming, thrilling experience.

8. Elmo's Go-Go Skateboard

Zone: Universal Wonderland
Duration: 2 minutes

Join Elmo for a thrilling skateboard ride at Universal Studios Japan! This attraction lets you ride on a giant skateboard, zooming down slopes with Elmo. The ride's unexpected twists and turns bring excitement for both children and adults, making everyone shout with joy. It's a short, two-minute adventure but packed with fun, suitable for families. The ride can accommodate up to 32 people.

9. The Flying Dinosaur

Zone: Jurassic Park
Duration: 3 minutes

The Flying Dinosaur in Jurassic Park at Universal Studios Japan is the world's longest flying coaster. This thrilling ride simulates being captured by a Pteranodon, tilting you 90 degrees towards the ground for a face-down experience. With nothing between you and the earth below, it offers heart-stopping ascents and drops. Covering 3,688 feet, it twists and turns through the air, giving you 360-degree views of Jurassic Park. This cutting-edge ride combines excitement and fear, making it a must-try at the park.

10. Yoshi’s Adventure

Zone: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™
Duration: 5 minutes

Yoshi's Adventure in Super Nintendo World is a fun, family ride. Join Yoshi on a quest to find three special eggs, guided by Captain Toad's map. This journey offers great views of the Mushroom Kingdom from Mount Beanpole. It's an enjoyable experience for all ages, perfect for family outings.

11. Freeze Ray Sliders

Zone: Minion Park
Duration: 5 minutes

Freeze Ray Sliders is a family-friendly ride inspired by the Despicable Me franchise. You’ll board circular sleds and slide down a winding track, experiencing twists and turns as they go. The ride simulates the feeling of being hit by Gru's freeze ray, with cool mist effects adding to the experience. It's a great option for those seeking a milder thrill, and its whimsical Minion theming makes it a hit with children.

Best Universal Studios Japan shows