How to Enter Super Nintendo World: A Strategy Guide (Because You Can’t Just Walk In)
You are going to Osaka. You are a gamer (or you have kids). Visiting Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is your dream.
But wait. STOP. Do not just show up at the park at 11:00 AM thinking you can stroll into Mario’s world. You will be blocked by a staff member saying “Area Full.”
Nintendo World is so popular that entry is strictly controlled. As your friend, I don’t want you to cry in front of the green pipe. Here is exactly how to guarantee your entry.
The Problem: “Area Timed Entry Ticket”
USJ has a normal entry ticket (Studio Pass). BUT, that ticket does NOT guarantee entry into the Nintendo area. You need a specific “Timed Entry Ticket” (Seiriken) to enter the land.
Here are the only two ways to get it.
Strategy A: The “Money” Method (Recommended)
If you have the budget, do this. It saves you stress and time.
- Buy an “Universal Express Pass”: This is an add-on ticket (expensive, usually $100-$150+ on top of the park ticket).
- Why it’s worth it:
- It includes a Guaranteed Entry Time for Nintendo World. (e.g., “You can enter at 10:00 AM”).
- It lets you skip the lines for the main rides (Mario Kart, Yoshi, Harry Potter, etc.). The lines can be 120+ minutes; with this pass, it takes 10 minutes.
- Warning: These sell out weeks in advance. Buy them on the official USJ website or Klook as soon as your dates are fixed.
Strategy B: The “Speed” Method (Free)
If you are on a budget or the Express Passes are sold out, you must play the “Early Bird” game.
- Arrive Early: Be at the USJ gates 1 hour before the park opens. (If it opens at 8:00, be there at 7:00).
- Run (Safely): As soon as the park opens, open the USJ Official App on your phone.
- Get the e-Ticket: Go to “Area Timed Entry Ticket” -> “Super Nintendo World” -> “Get an eTicket.”
- Select a Time: Pick the earliest slot available.
- Done: You now have a QR code to enter the area.
- The Risk: If you arrive late (e.g., 10 AM), all the slots might be gone. Then you have to play the “Lottery” (raffle) on the app, which is risky.
Inside the World: The “Power-Up Band”
Once you are in, you will see kiosks selling wristbands called “Power-Up Bands.”
- Cost: About 4,200 JPY ($28).
- Do you need it?
- No: You can ride the rides without it.
- Yes: If you want the full experience. The band connects to your phone app. You can punch yellow blocks, collect digital coins, and play mini-games to unlock the “Bowser Jr. Boss Battle.”
- Bonus: It works as an amiibo for your Nintendo Switch at home!
The Rides: Mario Kart & Yoshi
- Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge: This is the headliner. You wear an AR (Augmented Reality) headset and actually throw shells at other racers while driving. It is chaotic and amazing.
- Yoshi’s Adventure: A slow, relaxing ride for kids (and tired adults) that gives you a great view of the park.
The Food: Kinopio’s Cafe (Toad’s Cafe)
This is the cutest restaurant in the world. The burgers look like Mario, the soup looks like a mushroom.
- Warning: The line is insane. Go there immediately after you enter the Nintendo area to get a numbered ticket for the restaurant.
Don’t Forget Harry Potter!
While everyone is rushing to Mario, don’t forget that USJ also has the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It is incredibly realistic. Drinking Butterbeer in front of Hogwarts castle is a magical moment. (Usually, you don’t need a timed ticket for Harry Potter anymore, but check the app on busy days!).
Summary: Plan Ahead!
- Buy Express Passes 2 months in advance if you can.
- If not, arrive at the gates at 7:00 AM.
- Download the USJ App before you fly.
- Buy the Power-Up Band for the best memories.
Get ready to jump, punch blocks, and feel like a kid again. “Here we go!”
