How does Universal Studios Osaka's Express Pass work? In this article, DJB rounds up the types of Express Pass tickets, prices, where to buy them, and popular attractions worth prioritising — so your Universal Studios Osaka ticket lets you skip the queues and make the most of your visit!

Image source: Universal Studios Japan official website

What is the Universal Studios Osaka Express Pass?

Some of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Osaka often have long queues, sometimes over 3 hours, meaning you could get through as few as 5 rides in an entire day.

To address this, Universal Studios Osaka officially offers the "Express Pass" — a special ticket that cuts down waiting time, ideal for anyone on a rare trip to Japan who does not want to miss out on the park's most popular rides!

Types of Express Pass at Universal Studios Osaka

The Express Pass comes in two versions, with prices varying by date:

Express Pass type (ticket not included)Price (JPY)
Express Pass 4Approx. ¥6,800
Express Pass 7Approx. ¥10,800

Each version covers a different number and mix of attractions, and some attractions require use within a designated time slot. Express Passes are currently available through Klook, KKday, select travel agencies, and on-site ticket booths — though on-site quantities are limited, so we recommend booking online in advance!

Quick tip 📢 the Express Pass does not include park admission — you will need to buy an entry ticket separately! Visiting during off-peak season or on a weekday also tends to mean cheaper ticket prices~

How do you choose an Express Pass in Osaka?

Osaka's Express Pass comes in two versions — Express Pass 4 and Express Pass 7 — covering priority access to either 4 or 7 attractions respectively, typically including the most popular rides. Here is DJB's detailed breakdown of each option!

Express Pass 4

Express Pass 4 covers 4 designated popular attractions in the park, with the specific line-up varying depending on seasonal events and park scheduling.

If you have a specific themed area you want to prioritise, or a limited-time seasonal attraction, Express Pass 4 covers a range of classic rides at a lower price than Express Pass 7, while still offering plenty of choice. Given the variety, DJB has broken down three versions of this pass below:

Express Pass 4 – Fun Variety (the most popular)

Includes:

1 timed-entry ticket: Super Nintendo World™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Attraction ticket: Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Attraction ticket: Jaws™

This is the most popular Express Pass! It includes attractions loved by countless visitors, and these are must-ride experiences at Universal Studios Japan!

Express Pass 4 – Adventure & Jaws (the most thrilling)

Includes:

1 timed-entry ticket: Super Nintendo World™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Attraction ticket: Yoshi's Adventure (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Flight of the Hippogriff™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Detective Conan Live 4-D Show: Jewel of the Starry Sky (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Jaws™

An absolute must for anyone who loves the thrill rides!

Express Pass 4 – Minecart & Race (great for the whole family!)

Includes:

1 timed-entry ticket: Super Nintendo World™

Attraction ticket: Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Donkey Kong's Crazy Cart™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Attraction ticket: Jaws™

Express Pass 7

Express Pass 7 covers all of Universal Studios Japan's most popular attractions! If you cannot decide which pass to get, this one is the safe choice!

Includes:

Attraction ticket: Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Yoshi's Adventure (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Donkey Kong's Crazy Cart™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Flight of the Hippogriff™ (designated time slot)

Attraction ticket: Flying Dinosaur or Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem (choose one)

Attraction ticket: Hollywood Dream: The Ride or Jaws™ (choose one)

Express Pass 4 vs. Express Pass 7

Express Pass typeExpress Pass 4 Express Pass 7
Price (JPY)From approx. ¥6,800From approx. ¥10,800
Best forLimited budget or stamina, or specific attractions in mindAnyone wanting to ride every popular attraction
Image source: Universal Studios Japan Instagram

FAQ about the Universal Studios Osaka Express Pass

Q: How do you use the Express Pass at Universal Studios Osaka?

A: Show your Express Pass QR code to staff at the designated "Express Pass" lane in front of each attraction for scanning.

Q: How many times can you use each Express Pass?

A: Each pass can be used once per designated attraction — if you want to ride the same attraction again, you will need to use the regular queue.

Q: Where can you buy an Express Pass for Universal Studios Osaka?

A: Express Passes can be bought through Klook, KKday, select travel agencies, or at the on-site ticket booths.

Ready for a great day at Universal Studios Osaka? Along with this detailed Express Pass guide, DJB has also put together a Japan tax refund guide and a guide to choosing a Japan transport card — a must for independent travellers — to save you time on planning. Ready to go? Grab a DJB Daijobu Unlimited SIM and head out!