Universal Studios Japan Single Rider Guide: Best & Worst Rides to Experience Alone

Planning a visit to Universal Studios Japan and want to skip long lines without paying extra for an Express Pass? The Single Rider line might just be your best kept secret. As a local living in Japan and a frequent USJ visitor, I’ve learned how to use this option smartly to save time and enjoy more attractions.

In this guide, I’ll share honest insights and tips on which rides are perfect for solo riders — and which ones you might want to skip.

Ready to learn how to make the most of the Single Rider lines at USJ? Let’s dive in!

What Is the Single Rider Line at USJ?

What Is the Single Rider Line?

At Universal Studios Japan, some attractions at USJ have a Single Rider line — a free option to skip long waits.

It works by filling empty seats that become available when groups with an odd number of people board. As a result, Single Riders can often enjoy shorter wait times. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

If you use it wisely, the Single Rider line can save you a lot of time, especially during busy periods. Depending on crowd levels, the Single Rider option may not be available at certain times.

Can You Use Single Rider with Friends?

Yes, friends or couples can use it together, but you’ll be seated separately. That said, I often see couples ride one after another and reunite just a minute or two apart. It’s a smart strategy for groups who want to save time without completely splitting up.

Even if you don’t ride together, you’ll likely finish around the same time, making it an efficient way for small groups to enjoy more attractions.

No Wait Time Display: How to Check Queue Length

The wait time for Single Rider lines is not shown in the official USJ app. To check it, you’ll need to look at the sign posted at the entrance of each attraction.

Keep in mind that the posted wait time is just an estimate. Sometimes the Single Rider line moves faster than the regular line — but other times, it can actually be slower. It all depends on how many odd-numbered groups are ahead of you. In that sense, using the Single Rider line is a bit of a gamble.

Is the Single Rider Line for Everyone?

Not necessarily. While the Single Rider line is great for efficiency, it might not be ideal for those who feel anxious or awkward about riding alone. Some attractions — like family-style rides or ones with emotional storylines — can feel a bit isolating when experienced solo.

If you’re uncomfortable being separated from your group or worry about being stared at, you might want to skip it for certain rides. But don’t worry — I’ll walk you through which rides are ideal for solo riders and which ones might feel a little off.

Best & Worst Rides for Single Riders

XR Rides (SPY×FAMILY, Attack on Titan)

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★★

Wearing a VR headset allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience — you won’t even notice who’s sitting next to you. You also get to enjoy all the themed displays and interactive elements in the queue, without missing anything That’s why XR rides are perfect for first-time solo riders or anyone who wants to enjoy the attraction without distractions from others.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★★

Since there are barriers on both sides of the seat, you can’t see the people next to you — making it feel like a private flying experience, like riding a broomstick alone. Even if it’s your first time trying the Single Rider line, this attraction offers a natural and comfortable solo ride.

Hollywood Dream – The Ride

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★★

Everyone is so immersed in the thrill and music that they don’t notice who’s sitting next to them. As a Single Rider, you often get one of the exciting edge seats — which actually makes the ride even more fun. You can also play your favorite music during the ride, which helps distract from any loneliness.

Since it’s such an intense coaster, I’ve seen people encouraging each other like friends during the climb or after the drop — and even high-fiving strangers after the ride!

The Flying Dinosaur

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★★

This is one of the scariest rides at Universal Studios Japan.
You ride face-down in a flying position and can barely see the person next to you.
While you’re being lifted up, guests below often wave at you — which makes the experience feel a little less lonely.

Once the drop begins, no one has time to look around anyway — so it’s totally enjoyable even if you’re riding solo.
Terrifying, yes — but definitely fun.

JAWS

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★★

This is a ride where you don’t need to worry about the people around you.

As a single rider, you can often get on with almost no wait time.

Minion Mayhem

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★☆☆

In the pre-ride showroom, it’s obvious at a glance that you’re a Single Rider.

But once the ride starts, you’ll be having so much fun that it won’t even bother you.

Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★★★☆ (But tricky)

Using the Single Rider line means you’ll skip the instructional video and hat-fitting instructions, so if it’s your first time, you might not fully understand how to play. For first-timers, I recommend joining the regular line to learn the controls before racing.

The queue is indoors and comfortable, with plenty of displays to keep you entertained, so you won’t get bored. The Single Rider line is best suited for those who have already experienced Mario Kart or consider themselves veterans.

Jurassic Park – The Ride

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★★☆☆☆

The ride duration is long, and since the drop happens after a long distance, you may find yourself seated between couples or families, which can feel a bit isolating. However, for some, the thrill of the ride outweighs any awkwardness.

With five seats per row, the Single Rider line moves fairly quickly

Mine Cart Madness (Donkey Kong)

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★☆☆☆☆

The ride seats four people, split into two pairs front and back.
As a Single Rider, you’ll likely be grouped with three strangers, which can feel a bit awkward.
You’ll most often be seated in the back row, where the view is limited.
Also, there’s a ride photo taken, so your solo moment might become someone else’s lifelong memory.

Since Single Riders often miss many of the queue’s displays, I recommend the regular line if you want to fully enjoy the exhibits.

Space Fantasy – The Ride

Source: usj.co.jp

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★☆☆☆☆

Seats are very close to strangers, both back-to-back and side-by-side. This close proximity can feel uncomfortable for solo riders.

Elmo’s Go-Go Skateboard

Comfort Level for Solo Riders: ★☆☆☆☆

These family-oriented attractions have lots of kids and parents. Solo adults may feel out of place in these family-oriented attractions.

Solo Rider Comfort Level Comparison Table

Final Thoughts: Using Single Rider at USJ

If you don’t mind riding separately from your group and want to maximize your time at Universal Studios Japan, the Single Rider line is a fantastic free way to save time. It’s especially good on rides with high comfort levels for solo riders like XR Rides, Harry Potter, and Hollywood Dream.

But if you’re sensitive to feeling alone or awkward, avoid rides with low comfort scores like Donkey Kong or Space Fantasy.

Either way, give Single Rider a try at least once during your visit — it could save you tons of waiting and maybe even surprise you with a new way to enjoy USJ.