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 a huge difference in how much you enjoy your visit. 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.
The Express Pass lets you skip lines, but it’s not your park entry ticket. You’ll need both to enter and enjoy the rides.
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?
- Types of USJ Express Passes in 2025 – A Complete Comparison
- Universal Express Pass Premium – All Rides + Nintendo World
- Express Pass 7 – The Best for Nintendo + Harry Potter Fans
- Express Pass 4 – For Key Attractions Only
- Express Pass 4 Options with Guaranteed Admission to Super Nintendo World (As of July 2025)
- Express Pass 4 Options without Guaranteed Admission to Super Nintendo World (As of July 2025)
- Express Pass 4 Options with Super Nintendo World Entry (July 2025)
- Express Pass 4 Options without Super Nintendo World Entry
- Express Pass 3, 2, 1 – Limited-Time and Seasonal Passes
- Which Express Passes Include Super Nintendo World Admission?
- Prices, Availability & Where to Buy
- How to Choose the Best USJ Express Pass for You
- ✅ Conclusion: Which USJ Express Pass Is Best for You?
- Optional FAQ
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 USJ Express Pass Include Park Entry?
No, it doesn’t. You must purchase a 1-Day Studio Pass separately. The Express Pass helps you skip long lines at major attractions, so you can spend more time enjoying the park — and less time waiting.
How USJ Express Pass Time Slots Work
Express Passes come with designated 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
Universal Express Pass Premium – All Rides + Nintendo World
Access to 13+ attractions, including all major rides
Includes guaranteed entry to Super Nintendo World and Wizarding World
Price: ¥35,200–¥65,800 (approx. $243–$454)
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 XR Ride)
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel of the Starry Sky
- Jurassic Park – The Ride
Express Pass 7 – The Best for Nintendo + Harry Potter Fans
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 XR Ride)
- Jurassic Park – The Ride
As of July 2025, the following two types of Express Pass 7 are available:
Universal Express Pass 7: Variety・Theater
Price: from ¥17,800 ($123 USD)
You can enjoy the following 7 attractions:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
- Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky
- ★ Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
- ★ The Flying Dinosaur
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 7: Mine Cart & Selection
Price: from ¥17,800 ($123 USD)
You can enjoy the following 7 attractions:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
★ Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
★ The Flying Dinosaur
☆ JAWS
☆ Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each★&☆
Express Pass 4 – For Key Attractions Only
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.
Express Pass 4 prices start from ¥9,800 for versions without area admission, and from ¥12,800 for those with guaranteed entry to themed areas.
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 XR Ride)
Express Pass 4 Options with Guaranteed Admission to Super Nintendo World (As of July 2025)
Universal Express Pass 4: Adventure & Limited
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Yoshi’s Adventure
Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure Nobita’s Art World Tales
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky
☆JAWS
☆Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each☆
Universal Express Pass 4: Minions & Adventure
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Yoshi’s Adventure
Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Universal Express Pass 4: Thrills&Selection
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop
☆JAWS
☆Hollywood Dream – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each☆
Universal Express Pass 4: Race＆The Flying Dinosaur
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky
The Flying Dinosaur
Universal Express Pass 4: XR Ride & Race
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
SPY x FAMILY XR Ride
★The Flying Dinosaur
★Hollywood Dream – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Adventure & Theater
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Yoshi’s Adventure
Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
★JAWS
★Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Race & Thrills
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
☆Hollywood Dream – The Ride
☆The Flying Dinosaur
★JAWS
★Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each☆&★
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & The Flying Dinosaur
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Mine Cart Madness
The Flying Dinosaur
★JAWS
★Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & Jurassic Park
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Yoshi’s Adventure
Mine Cart Madness
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
★JAWS
★Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Mine Cart & Fun
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
Mine Cart Madness
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
☆JAWS
☆Jurassic Park – The Ride
*Choose one attraction for each☆
Universal Express Pass 4: 4D & Minions
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure Nobita’s Art World Tales
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Universal Express Pass 4: 4D & Choice
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure Nobita’s Art World Tales
★Hollywood Dream – The Ride
★The Flying Dinosaur
★JAWS
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Fun Variety
Price: from ¥12,800 ($88 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
MarioKart: Koopa’s Challenge
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
JAWS
Express Pass 4 Options without Guaranteed Admission to Super Nintendo World (As of July 2025)
Universal Express Pass 4: The Flying Dinosaur & JAWS
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure Nobita’s Art World Tales
The Flying Dinosaur
★JAWS
★Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
*Choose one attraction for each★
Universal Express Pass 4: Minion＆Fun (XR Ride & Minion)
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
SPY x FAMILY XR Ride
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
★Hollywood Dream – The Ride
★JAWS
*Choose one attraction for each★
*Same content as the XR Ride & Minion Express Pass.
Universal Express Pass 4: XR ride＆Jurassic Park
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
SPY x FAMILY XR Ride
- JAWS
Jurassic Park – The Ride
Universal Express Pass 4: XR Ride＆Minion (Minion＆Fun)
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
SPY x FAMILY XR Ride
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
★Hollywood Dream – The Ride
★JAWS
*Choose one attraction for each★
*Same content as the Minion & Fun Express Pass.
Universal Express Pass 4: XR Ride & The Flying Dinosaur
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
SPY x FAMILY XR Ride
The Flying Dinosaur
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Universal Express Pass 4: Backdrop
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Flight of the Hippogriff™
Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop
The Flying Dinosaur
Universal Express Pass 4: Backdrop & Choice
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Hollywood Dream – The Ride：Backdrop
★Hollywood Dream – The Ride
★The Flying Dinosaur
☆Jurassic Park – The Ride
☆JAWS
*Choose one attraction for each★&☆
Universal Express Pass 4: Backdrop & Jurassic Park
Price: from ¥9,800 ($68 USD)
Includes the following 4 attractions:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Hollywood Dream – The Ride：Backdrop
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Jurassic Park – The Ride
Express Pass 4 Options with Super Nintendo World Entry (July 2025)
| Pass Name | Yoshi | Doraemon 4-D | Conan 4-D | JAWS | Jurassic Park | Villain-Con | Minion Mayhem | Mario Kart | Harry Potter | Hippogriff | Backdrop | Hollywood Dream | Flying Dinosaur | XR Ride | Mine Cart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adventure & Limited | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ☆ | ☆ | ||||||||||
| Minions & Adventure | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| Thrills & Selection | ☆ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ||||||||||
| Race & The Flying Dinosaur | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| XR Ride & Race | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| Adventure & Theater | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| Race & Thrills | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ☆ | ☆ | |||||||||
| Mine Cart & The Flying Dinosaur | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| Mine Cart & Jurassic Park | ✓ | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| Mine Cart & Fun | ☆ | ☆ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| 4D & Minions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| 4D & Choice | ✓ | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ★ | |||||||||
| Fun Variety | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
*★ and ☆ = Choose one attraction for each group
Express Pass 4 Options without Super Nintendo World Entry
| Pass Name | Yoshi | Doraemon 4-D | Conan 4-D | JAWS | Jurassic Park | Villain-Con | Minion Mayhem | Mario Kart | Harry Potter | Hippogriff | Backdrop | Hollywood Dream | Flying Dinosaur | XR Ride | Mine Cart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Flying Dinosaur & JAWS | ✓ | ★ | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| Minion & Fun (XR Ride & Minion) | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| XR Ride & Jurassic Park | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| XR Ride & Minion (Minion & Fun) | ★ | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ✓ | ||||||||||
| XR Ride & The Flying Dinosaur | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| Backdrop | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||||||
| Backdrop & Choice | ☆ | ☆ | ✓ | ✓ | ★ | ★ | |||||||||
| Backdrop & Jurassic Park | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
*★ and ☆ = Choose one attraction for each group
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
Which Express Passes Include Super Nintendo World Admission?
Look for passes that include:
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness
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 |
|---|---|
| Express Pass 1 | Not currently sold |
| Express Pass 3 | Not currently sold |
| Express Pass 4 | ¥9,800 – ¥26,800 (approx. $68 – $185) |
| Express Pass 7 | ¥17,800 – ¥35,800 (approx. $123 – $247) |
| Premium Pass | ¥35,200 – ¥65,800 (approx. $243 – $454) |
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
✅ English support available
✅ Choose your attraction time slots in advance
✅ Receive a QR code for park entry and ride access
💳 Credit card payment accepted
2. Klook (✅ Recommended)
🌐 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. 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 the Express Pass 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.
How to Choose the Best USJ Express Pass for You
To get guaranteed entry to Nintendo World, choose a pass that includes Mario Kart or Donkey Kong.
Short on time? Go for Express Pass 4.
Visiting during special events (like Halloween)? Look out for Express 7.
Have a lot to see? The Premium Pass is a smart choice 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 | ¥35,200–¥65,800 | Ultimate experience |
| Express 7 | 7 | ✅/❌ Depends | ¥17,800–¥35,800 | Balanced & popular rides |
| Express 4 | 4 | ✅/❌ Depends | ¥9,800–¥26,800 | 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.
Comments