Are you visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ) and want to ride more attractions with less waiting? The Single Rider system might be your secret weapon—especially if you’re okay riding solo!
In this guide, I’ll explain how the Single Rider system works, which rides offer it, and when it might be better to consider an Express Pass instead.
Single Rider is a free way to save time if you don’t mind riding alone.
Available on select rides like Mario Kart and The Flying Dinosaur.
Express Pass is faster and allows groups to ride together.
Some rides are ideal for solo riders—others can feel awkward.
What Is the Single Rider System at USJ?
The Single Rider system is a free and smart way to reduce your wait time by filling empty seats on rides.
Many attractions seat 2 or 4 people per row. When there’s an odd-numbered group, a seat often goes empty. That’s where Single Riders come in—you’ll be seated in these leftover spots.
You can line up with friends or family, but you will not ride together
Wait times are usually shorter than the regular queue—but not always
The system depends on available empty seats, so there’s some luck involved
Sitting next to a stranger on a thrilling ride might feel awkward for some
Which Rides Offer Single Rider at USJ? (2025 List)
As of 2025, these rides offer Single Rider queues:
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Space Fantasy – The Ride
Minion Mayhem
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
JAWS
Jurassic Park – The Ride
The Flying Dinosaur
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong)
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Elmo’s Go-Go Skateboard
How to Use Single Rider at USJ
It’s Free to Use
You don’t need a reservation or ticket. Just find the ride’s Single Rider entrance and join the line.
Check If It’s Available
Look at the wait time board in front of the ride. If “Single Rider” wait time is listed, it’s available.
If not, ask a Crew Member—sometimes it’s temporarily paused.
Use the Correct Line
Each attraction has multiple lines:
Express Pass
Regular (Standby)
Single Rider
Don’t enter the wrong queue by mistake—look for signs in English and Japanese.
Single Rider vs Express Pass: Which Should You Choose?
Let’s compare the two options side by side:
| Feature | Single Rider | Express Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Paid (¥4,800–¥13,800+) |
| Ride together | No | Yes |
| Wait time priority | Lowest | Highest |
| Entry time | No reservation | Timed entry |
| Flexibility | Can ride anytime (if available) | Must follow schedule |
| Availability | Limited to select rides | Available for most major rides |
Choose Single Rider If:
You’re traveling solo or don’t mind splitting up with friends
You want to save money
You’re visiting during a less crowded period
Choose Express Pass If:
You want guaranteed access to top rides
You’re visiting during peak season or weekends
You want to ride as a group and avoid long waits
Best Attractions for Single Riders at USJ
Based on experience, some rides are perfect for solo riders:
The Flying Dinosaur
Forward-leaning seats mean you won’t see your neighbor
Everyone’s screaming, so no awkward silence
Guests below wave at you during liftoff—fun and not lonely!
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Separated seats and dark setting make it comfortable for solo riders
Feels immersive and personal
Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Choose your own music—ride solo to your favorite song!
Day or night, it’s thrilling on your own
Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
Everyone is focused on racing—not you
Great time-saver on your second or third visit
Tip: First-timers may miss the fun queue design and race instructions
XR Ride (Seasonal)
VR goggles block your surroundings—no worries about sitting alone
Highly popular, so Single Rider can save lots of time
Rides to Avoid as a Single Rider
Some attractions can feel uncomfortable when riding alone. Here’s what to consider:
Minion Mayhem
No dividers between seats
Feels cramped and awkward with strangers
Often doesn’t run Single Rider
Space Fantasy – The Ride
Two-person carts—makes it feel too personal
Must put all belongings in a locker before lining up = boring wait
Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong)
Wait time can be the same as the standby line
You often get the back seat, which is less exciting
Jurassic Park – The Ride
You sit very close to the person next to you, which can feel awkward.
Single Riders tend to stand out more on this attraction.
Final Tips: Use Single Rider Smartly!
If you’re a repeat visitor, on a solo trip, or looking to ride more without spending extra, the Single Rider system is a great option. Just remember:
Always check if it’s running before lining up
Set a meeting point if you’re splitting up with friends (souvenir shops at ride exits are perfect!)
Don’t expect to skip every line—but many times you’ll be surprised how fast it is
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