Since opening in 2001, Universal Studios Japan has built a reputation for delivering immersive, innovative experiences that resonate with guests from around the world and create memorable moments for people of all ages. In 2023, Universal Studios Japan earned recognition from the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) and AECOM as Asia’s most-attended theme park and the third-most-attended globally – a testament to the destination’s popularity.
The success of Universal Studios Japan is driven by our crew members’ commitment to excellence and the collective efforts to provide “NO LIMIT!” experiences every day through powerful IP, technologically advanced attractions and innovative entertainment experiences.
Over the past 25 years, a series of defining moments have shaped Universal Studios Japan into the award-winning destination it is today:
March 31, 2001
Universal Studios Japan opens in Osaka, becoming the first Universal theme park outside the U.S. and shattering worldwide attendance records in its first year.
2007
Hollywood Dream: The Ride opens, an exhilarating roller coaster that remains one of the most popular attractions at the park.
2011
USJ Scholarship Program launches in partnership with Osaka Prefectural Scholarship Association to support high school students pursuing secondary education.
March 2012
Universal Wonderland opens, offering a family‑friendly area themed to popular characters such as Hello Kitty and Snoopy.
September 2012
Halloween Horror Nights arrives at Universal Studios Japan and continues to be a global phenomenon to this day.
2014
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ opens, bringing an entirely new level of themed entertainment to the park.
2015
Universal Cool Japan debuts and grows into a fan-favorite annual event that features experiences highlighting the work of Japanese-born talent to worldwide visitors.
2017
Minion Park opens, the first Illumination’s Minion-themed land at any Universal destination.
2021
The world’s first SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ opens, immersing guests into Nintendo’s legendary worlds, characters and adventures, allowing guests to jump into the action of their favorite video games.
April 2024
“LOVE HAS NO LIMIT” is defined as Universal Studios Japan’s CSR slogan, aiming to “create a future full of smiles for children.”
December 2024
Universal Studios Japan opens Donkey Kong Country, a new area of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ that increases the land’s size by 70%.
July 2025
Minion Park expands with a new attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, and additional merchandise and food & beverage offerings.
January 2026
Universal Studios Japan and The Pokémon Company announce their plan to offer more innovative, immersive and world-class Pokémon experiences.
The “Discover U!!!” 25th anniversary theme carries two meanings: “Discover You,” encouraging guests to encounter a version of themselves beyond imagination, and “Discover USJ,” reflecting on the park’s history and rediscovering the power of entertainment. Learn more about the yearlong celebration and limited-time offerings here.
Universal Studios Japan looks forward to the next 25 years as it continues its ongoing effort to enhance its offerings and bring fan-first, trip-driving stories and characters to the park.