Planning to visit Universal Studios Japan in 2025? Then you’ve probably come across the USJ Express Pass — a paid fast-lane ticket that can make or break your day at the park. As someone living in Japan and frequently visiting USJ, I can tell you from experience: on busy days, an Express Pass is worth every yen.
In this guide, I’ll help you understand what the Express Pass is, what types are available in 2025, which one includes guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World, and which one is best for you. Let’s dive in.
Express Pass is a skip-the-line add-on, not a park entry ticket. You need both.
Express Pass types vary by the number of rides and included zones — typically covering 4, 7, or 13 attractions.
Some passes include guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World, others don’t.
Buy early — Express Passes often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays.
What Is the Express Pass at Universal Studios Japan?
Source: usj.co.jp
USJ Express Pass vs. Regular Admission – What’s the Difference?
The Express Pass is not your entry ticket. It’s an add-on to your standard Studio Pass, and it allows you to skip the long lines at selected attractions by using dedicated Express lanes.
Regular Admission: Entry to the park only
Express Pass: Skip-the-line privileges for specific rides at specific times
You need both to enjoy the full experience.
Does the Express Pass Include Park Admission?
No, it doesn’t. You must purchase a 1-Day Studio Pass separately. The Express Pass simply enhances your experience inside the park by reducing wait times.
How the Time-Slot System Works
Each Express Pass comes with assigned time slots for each ride. When your time comes, head to the attraction and use the Express entrance. You cannot choose the time on the day — it must be selected during booking (if buying online).
Types of USJ Express Passes in 2025 – A Complete Comparison
Express Pass Premium – For Those Who Want It All
Access to 13+ attractions, including all major rides
Includes guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World and Wizarding World
Price: approx. ¥35,000–¥61,000
Attractions You Can Experience:
Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Flight of the Hippogriff
The Flying Dinosaur
Hollywood Dream – The Ride (Backdrop)
Sing on Tour
Minion Hacha Mecha Ride
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Jaws
Space Fantasy: The Ride (or seasonal attraction when available)
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel of the Starry Sky
Guaranteed Area Entry Tickets:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Super Nintendo World
Express Pass 7 – The Best for Nintendo + Harry Potter Fans
Covers 7 rides, often including Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and Harry Potter
Some types include Super Nintendo World entry
Price: approx. ¥10,000–¥32,000
When you buy the Universal Express Pass 7, it always includes these five popular rides—known for their long wait times at USJ:
Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Flight of the Hippogriff
The remaining two rides depend on which version of the Express Pass 7 you choose. Your choice will depend on which attractions you want to skip the longest lines for!
Most often, the options include some of these favorites:
The Flying Dinosaur
Minion Hacha Mecha Ride
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Jaws
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel of the Starry Sky
Space Fantasy: The Ride (or a seasonal attraction when available)
You’ll typically pick two from this list to complete your Express Pass 7 experience.
Express Pass 4 – For Key Attractions Only
Includes 4 major rides
Entry to Nintendo World depends on the ride set
Price: approx. ¥7,000–¥30,000
There are usually about 10 different types of Express Pass 4 available for purchase. Some of these include a guaranteed entry ticket to Super Nintendo World.
Prices for the Express Pass 4 typically range from 7,000 to 30,000 yen. Make sure to choose the pass that covers the attractions you want to experience most!
Generally, the first 1 to 3 rides included in these passes are some of USJ’s most popular attractions, such as:
Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness
Minion Hacha Mecha Ride
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
The Flying Dinosaur
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Space Fantasy: The Ride (or a seasonal attraction when available)
Express Pass 3, 2, 1 – Limited-Time and Seasonal Passes
Focus on seasonal or event attractions (e.g. Halloween, Cool Japan)
Guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World is typically not included.
Price: approx. ¥2,500–¥10,000
The Universal Express Pass 1, 2, and 3 are not always available—they’re sold irregularly and often include access to limited-time attractions.
Which Express Pass Includes Super Nintendo World Entry?
Look for passes that include:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness (New in 2025!)
If your pass includes one of these, you’ll also receive a guaranteed timed-entry ticket to Super Nintendo World.
Prices, Availability & Where to Buy
How Much Does the Express Pass Cost in 2025?
| Pass Type | Price Range (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Express Pass 1 | Not currently sold |
| Express Pass 3 | Not currently sold |
| Express Pass 4 | ¥7,000 – ¥30,000 |
| Express Pass 7 | ¥10,000 – ¥32,000 |
| Premium Pass | ¥35,000 – ¥61,000 |
Price Fluctuations by Date – Peak vs. Off-Peak
USJ uses dynamic pricing. Prices are higher during weekends, holidays, or school breaks. Weekdays in low seasons (e.g. mid-January or June) offer the lowest rates.
Where Can You Buy the Express Pass as a Foreigner?
1. USJ Official Website (✅ Recommended)
✅ English support available
✅ Choose your attraction time slots in advance
✅ Get a QR code for direct entry
💳 Credit card payment accepted
2. Klook
🌐 Available in multiple languages (English, Chinese, etc.)
📲 Easy mobile booking interface
✅ Often includes package deals (entry + Express Pass)
❗ Be sure to check if the pass includes Nintendo World entry
3. KKday
🌍 International traveler-friendly
✅ Occasionally offers special seasonal passes
💬 Multilingual customer support
📧 Vouchers sent via email
4. Lawson Ticket Website (ローチケ)
🈚 Japanese only
💳 Credit card payment required
🏪 Tickets must be picked up at Lawson stores in Japan
5. Hotel Concierge at USJ Official Hotels
🏨 Available only for hotel guests
🔁 Inventory is very limited and not always available
📝 Ask your hotel directly at check-in
6. USJ Ticket Booths (On the Day)
🕗 Sold at the entrance booths inside the park
⚠️ Very limited availability — often sold out by opening time
❌ You cannot choose the time slots for attractions
⏳ Not recommended for peak-season visits
Should You Buy It in Advance?
Yes! Express Passes can sell out weeks ahead, especially during holiday seasons or weekends. Booking early gives you the best time slots and options.
My Personal Tips for Choosing the Right Pass
Want guaranteed Nintendo World entry? Get a pass with Mario Kart or Donkey Kong.
Short on time? Go for Express Pass 4.
Visiting during special events (like Halloween)? Look out for Express 4.
Have a lot to see? Go Premium, especially during peak season.
✅ Conclusion: Which USJ Express Pass Is Best for You?
| Pass | # of Attractions | Nintendo Entry | Price Range (JPY) | Best For |
| Premium | 13+ | ✅ Yes | ¥35,000–¥61,000 | Ultimate experience |
| Express 7 | 7 | ✅/❌ Depends | ¥10,000–¥32,000 | Balanced & popular rides |
| Express 4 | 4 | ✅/❌ Depends | ¥7,000–¥30,000 | Families & short visits |
| Express 3/2/1 | 1–3 | ❌ No | ¥2,500–¥10,000 | Events & budget travelers |
Final Advice
In Japan, wait times for theme park attractions tend to be significantly longer than in many other countries. For example, “Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness” often has wait times exceeding 180 minutes. If you’re traveling all the way to Japan, I highly recommend purchasing an Express Pass to save time and make the most of your visit.
Optional FAQ
Can I cancel or change my Express Pass?
No. Tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable in most cases.
What happens if I miss my time slot?
You may not be allowed entry to the attraction, depending on staff discretion.
Can I buy more than one type of Express Pass in a day?
Not officially. The system won’t allow overlapping time slots.
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