Stepping inside the world of my favorite childhood video game is a different new experience. 🍄⭐
Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan is the world’s first Nintendo-themed land in the world. Next month, the Super Nintendo World in Hollywood will open on February 17, 2023. They say that it looks exactly like the one in Universal Studios Japan.
Super Nintendo World Osaka: how to enter inside, how much is the ticket + travel tips
After my magical journey to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, we headed to the vibrant and thrilling world of the Super Mario Brothers.
Side story: Super Mario is one of the video games that shaped me / my childhood. I still remember that day when my father went home with the Nintendo Family Computer. We didn’t always get new toys, but we were one of the first to own a Family Computer. I remember playing (with my siblings) the whole day, and even after school. I was really young (don’t compute my age haha). I was a good player and finished different video games. My mother would allow us to play and she never asked about our homework. We did good in school. I think that was when I developed personal responsibility and self-motivation.
How to Get Inside the Super Nintendo World
Super Nintendo World is a popular destination in Universal Studios Japan and to ensure the best experience, they limit the number of guests they allow inside the park. To get inside, you need (1) Timed Entry Ticket, or (2) Express Pass.
Timed Entry Ticket
To get a FREE Entry Ticket, you can get a ticket from the Area Entry Standby or book via the USJ app. You have to scan your Universal Studios Pass ticket and select a desired entry time.
Express Pass
Express Pass is a separate ticket you buy that allows you to skip the line and make the most of your visit to Universal Studios Japan. It also includes entry to 2 rides: Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge and
Yoshi’s Adventure
- Express Pass 4
- Express Pass 7
The Power-Up Band
Once we got our tickets validated, I got myself a Power-Up Band.
There is a kiosk at the entrance that sells it for JPY 3,600 (around Php 1,800). You can choose from 6 different designs. I went for Toad.
It is not a requirement for you to buy one, but I just want to make the most of my experience during our visit. You can pair it with the Super Nintendo World section of the USJ app, and you can see your collected points and stamps.
You would also be teamed up with other players, and you can see the Team Standing/Ranking on the app and window displays inside the park. You can collect coins by punching Blocks which you can use to enter attractions/rides.
It really felt like playing the actual Super Mario Game.
Inside the Super Nintendo World
Walking through the pipe and seeing the end where the world of Super Mario opens up is like being in a warp zone!
The Mushroom Kingdom is real with details from the 2D version of Super Mario. I honestly didn’t know where to focus as the whole park is filled with moving objects and vibrant colors. The familiar Mario video soundtrack was playing in the background completing the whole experience.
My friend and I just explored the world, stopping at every Block to collect coins.
There are also designated meet and greet, and photo areas with Mario & Luigi, Toad, and Princess Peach.
I posted a video on my Instagram Reels and Tiktok of the videos. Click to watch!
I shared some travel tips on my Tiktok Day One:
I had an evening commitment that day and I wasn’t really down to get competitive with the games. Will save the competitive spirit on my next visit.
I would have loved to enjoy and experience the Kinopio’s Cafe but the line was so long (as expected!). Again, saving it for my next visit (hopefully soon!).
We also checked out the 1UP Factory to check out Super Mario merch. I am not really a collector, and I am just happy to see the fun toys that one can buy as a souvenir.
I had the best time exploring the world of Super Mario.
We left Universal Studios Japan around 5:30 PM. The sun set earlier on this side of the world.
This princess from another castle is back in her own world.
To be continued…
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