Planning your visit to Universal Studios Japan and dreaming of stepping into Super Nintendo World? From timed-entry tickets to VIP tours, there are multiple ways to get in — but not all of them are easy or obvious.
As a local who’s visited USJ many times, I’ll share real-world tips, insider insights, and the most up-to-date info so you can make the most of your day.
- How to Enter Without a Timed-Entry Ticket
- Getting a Timed Entry via the App
- Entry Lottery: How It Works and What to Expect
- Paid Options for Guaranteed Entry to Super Nintendo World
- Purchase a Studio Pass with Guaranteed Entry to Super Nintendo World
- Express Pass with Area Admission
- The Ultimate Experience: Join a VIP Tour
- Summary: Your Entry Options at a Glance
- Final Thoughts
How to Enter Without a Timed-Entry Ticket
Check If Free Entry Is Available
You can check if Super Nintendo World offers free entry on the official website below — but note that the page is only in Japanese, so we recommend using Google Translate.
Check today’s park status here:
Official USJ Park Info – Real-time Schedule (Japanese)
This information is available even before you enter the park, making it a great way to plan ahead!
Look for the section titled “■エリア入場整理券/抽選券配布状況についてのお知らせ”. It will tell you whether timed-entry tickets or lottery tickets are currently required, or if free entry is available. The page is updated regularly, so be sure to check regularly.
Best Times to Get Free Entry
If you’re lucky, you might be able to enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD for free — no reservations or timed entry tickets required. Here are a few ways to boost your chances.
Right After Park Opening
Line up before the park opens and head straight to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD as soon as you enter. If the area hasn’t filled up yet, you may get in without needing a timed entry ticket.Right Before Park Closing
As the park nears closing time, free entry to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD may become available. However, please note that popular attractions may stop accepting guests even before the official closing time due to crowd levels.During Off-Peak Seasons
During off-peak seasons, you may be able to enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD without a Timed Entry Ticket. This typically includes periods like June to July, late August, and late January.On Rainy Days
Fewer guests visit on rainy days, which can increase your chances of getting in without a timed ticket.
Getting a Timed Entry via the App
Get a Timed-Entry Ticket via the App
USJ Official app Time entry ticket
As soon as you enter the park, use the official USJ app to reserve a timed-entry ticket. The sooner you act, the better your chances of getting in — so it’s a good idea to study the process in advance.
If one person in your group registers everyone’s park tickets in the app beforehand, it’ll streamline the process.
For step-by-step instructions, check the official guide here: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/enjoy/numbered-ticket/attraction-reservation-ticket
What Time Do Timed-Entry Tickets Run Out?
During busy periods, timed-entry tickets can run out by late morning. Peak seasons include February to March, the Halloween Horror Nights period, the Christmas to New Year holidays, and major Japanese holiday weeks like Golden Week.
On the other hand, during off-peak days, tickets may remain available throughout the day.
Check a crowd calendar in advance and plan your strategy accordingly!
Entry Lottery: How It Works and What to Expect
How the Entry Lottery Works
Once all the timed-entry tickets are gone, the system switches to a lottery-based entry.
You can apply only once, and if you don’t win, you won’t get a second chance — so choose your preferred time slot carefully.
Real Odds of Winning the Lottery
Winning the lottery is tough — with success rates estimated around 10–30%. But in my recent experience, I applied six times and was only selected once. Think of it as a lucky bonus, not a guaranteed option.
Paid Options for Guaranteed Entry to Super Nintendo World
Purchase a Studio Pass with Guaranteed Entry to Super Nintendo World
If you want to guarantee your entry to Super Nintendo World without worrying about timed tickets or lotteries, purchasing a Studio Pass that includes Super Nintendo World entry is a reliable option. This ticket package is only available on Klook.
Here are some key details about this ticket package:
1-day Studio Pass + SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ + Have Fun in Kansai Pass
Includes:
1-day Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass
Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World (choose your entry time when booking)
Have Fun in Kansai Pass (valid for 3 facilities in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe)
Price: from ¥14,400 (approx. $99 USD)
This package not only ensures smooth access to Super Nintendo World but also gives you access to over 200 popular attractions and restaurants in the Kansai region through the Have Fun in Kansai Pass. It’s a great deal for those planning to explore beyond USJ.
By securing this Studio Pass package, you’ll avoid the stress of daily ticket lotteries and enjoy a worry-free visit to Super Nintendo World.
Express Pass with Area Admission
What Is an Express Pass with Super Nintendo World Access?
These passes not only let you enter the area but also skip long ride lines — a game-changer on crowded days. Universal Express Passes come with scheduled entry times, which makes it easy to plan your day—just follow the schedule and enjoy!
More about Express Pass here.
Recommended Express Pass 4 (2025)
The Universal Express Pass 4 is the most affordable option for skipping the lines at four attractions.
Among the Express Pass 4 options that include guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World, we’ve selected those that allow you to enjoy two attractions inside the area.
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & Fun
Price: from ¥18,480 (approx. $127 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
- Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
- Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
- Choice of: JAWS or Jurassic Park – The Ride
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & The Flying Dinosaur
Price: from ¥18,800 (approx. $130 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
The Flying Dinosaur
Choice of: JAWS or Jurassic Park – The Ride
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & Jurassic Park
Price: from ¥18,800 (approx. $130 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
Yoshi’s Adventure
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Choice of: JAWS or Jurassic Park – The Ride
Recommended Express Pass 7 (2025)
If you want to skip the lines for even more attractions, we recommend the Universal Express Pass 7 series.
Super Nintendo World is busiest from park opening until noon, so we suggest choosing a pass that allows you to experience Super Nintendo World in the morning.
Why? Because the crowds peak in the morning, making it especially worth skipping the lines then. Plus, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is far more atmospheric at night.
Universal Express Pass 7: Minecart & Selection + Donkey Kong Country™ Experience Set
Price: from ¥29,480 (approx. $200 USD)
Includes the following 7 attractions:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Choice of: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or The Flying Dinosaur
Choice of: JAWS® or Jurassic Park – The Ride
Also includes:
- Donkey Kong-themed Power-Up Band (¥4,900 value / approx. $34 USD)
- DK Wild Hot Dog (¥1,300 value / approx. $9 USD)
Universal Express Pass 7: Minecart & Selection
Includes the following 7 attractions:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Choice of: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or The Flying Dinosaur
Choice of: JAWS® or Jurassic Park – The Ride
Other Express Pass Selections (2025)
Universal Express Pass 8: Variety Theater
Price: from ¥34,072 (approx. $170 USD)
Includes the following 8 attractions:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong Country)
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Villain-Con Minion Blast
Detective Conan: The Escape – The Sapphire Under the Starry Sky (4D Live Show)
Choice of: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or The Flying Dinosaur
Compare Universal Studios Japan Express Passes
| Express Pass Name | Included Attractions | Price (from) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Express Pass 4 Mine Cart & Fun |
| ¥18,480 (~$127 USD) | Affordable, book early |
| Universal Express Pass 4 Mine Cart & The Flying Dinosaur |
| ¥18,800 (~$130 USD) | For thrill seekers |
| Universal Express Pass 4 Mine Cart & Jurassic Park |
| ¥18,800 (~$130 USD) | Family-friendly |
| Express Pass 7 Minecart & Selection + Donkey Kong Country™ Experience Set |
| ¥29,480 (~$200 USD) | Includes Donkey Kong Power-Up Band & DK Wild Hot Dog |
| Express Pass 7 Minecart & Selection |
| ¥24,871 (~$171 USD) | Same as above but without Donkey Kong Power-Up Band and hot dog |
| Express Pass 8 Variety Theater |
| ¥34,072 (~$170 USD) | For anime fans |
- They sell out fast — especially the ones with Donkey Kong.
- Entry time is pre-set, so plan your day around it.
- You still need a separate admission ticket.
The Ultimate Experience: Join a VIP Tour
It’s not cheap, but the Universal VIP Experience Group Tour: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ offers unbeatable value for those looking for a premium experience at Universal Studios Japan.
By joining the VIP tour, Mario fans can enjoy priority access to the main attractions with no waiting — an unforgettable experience for Nintendo fans. A dedicated tour guide will lead you through popular rides one after another, sharing lively commentary filled with park secrets and fun facts. Plus, you’ll be taken along exclusive routes unavailable to regular guests, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for Nintendo fans.
What’s Included in the SUPER NINTENDO WORLD VIP Tour
Price: From ¥38,000 (approx. $262 USD)
Here’s what you get as part of the group tour:
1. Special Entrance to the Park
Skip the general entry lines and enter through an exclusive VIP entrance located near the Guest Services counter, to the left of the main ticket booths.
2. VIP Lounge Access + Free Drinks
Relax before the tour in a private lounge exclusive to participants. You’ll also receive complimentary drinks while you wait.
The lounge is open from 30 minutes before your scheduled tour start time.
3. Priority Access to Attractions
With a tour guide, you’ll get priority access to the attractions inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ as well as one other popular attraction in the park!
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong)
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
JAWS
If any of these are closed, your guide will choose a replacement ride from a designated list.
4. Bonus Express Pass for 3 Additional Attractions
After the tour ends, you’ll receive 3 Universal Express Pass tickets for use on other major rides in the park, such as:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
The Flying Dinosaur
JAWS
Jurassic Park – The Ride™
Space Fantasy – The Ride
Each pass grants one-time priority access to your selected rides.
The official site provides 4 Universal Express Passes instead of three (as with Klook).
5. Dining Discount
Get 10% off your meals at selected restaurants like Kinopio’s Café and Park Side Grille.
6. Souvenirs Included
You’ll also receive a VIP lanyard and a ride poncho to remember your special day.
If you want to enjoy SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in the most stress-free and luxurious way possible, this is the ultimate package.
Summary: Your Entry Options at a Glance
| Entry Method | Line Skipping | Guaranteed Access | Price (from) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Entry (No Pass) | ❌ | ❌ | Free | Depends on luck and timing |
| Timed-Entry Ticket | ❌ | ❌ | Free | Must apply via app immediately after entering the park |
| Area Entry Lottery | ❌ | ❌ | Free | One chance only, with low odds of success |
| Express Pass | ✅ | ✅ | ¥18,480 (~$127) | Best for efficient planners. Book in advance |
| VIP Tour | ✅ | ✅ | ¥38,000 (~$262) | For a stress-free and unforgettable VIP experience |
Final Thoughts
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is one of the most unique and exciting areas at Universal Studios Japan. With the recent addition of the Donkey Kong Country expansion, the crowds have only grown — and the Mine Cart Madness ride is now one of the park’s most popular attractions.
To make the most of your visit and avoid unnecessary stress, consider using the tips and entry methods we’ve covered in this guide. Planning ahead will help you enjoy the magic of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD to the fullest!
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