21 Feb - For today, we will be solely dedicated to enjoying ourselves at Universal Studio Japan (USJ). In order to spend the maximum time allowed in the park (As we know we definitely will not be able to cover the whole park), we woke up early and left the house in order to be at the gate when the theme park opens. We got ourselves to transfer at Nishikujō Station to board the train which will bring us to Universal City Station.
I am not sure if it is the culture of Japan not to be late (or wake up early), but when we arrived at the entrance, there are already hoards of people at the gate. Well, we will now need to squeeze with the crowd.
One thing I like about Japan is that the people here do spend the efforts to enjoy themselves and soak in the fantasy environment. We saw people doing cosplay and sitting by themselves on the road or lawn to take pictures. Most of the girls will buy themselves a cartoon character head band and wear throughout the time they are in the park. For us, we have no time to loose as we have several places to cover in order not to waste the express pass* we have paid.
*The Express Pass is well worth the money paid to skip the long long queue, which can be a 120 mins wait.
The usual Universal City Entrance
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man - The Ride 4K3D
As quoted from USJ website: "The world's best attraction and the first to win world's best ride award 7 consecutive years has been transformed into a whole new ride by gaining the world's best technology "4K3D"! Unbelievable impact that confuses the imaginary with the reality, and series of special effects over 100, will give you an incredible, immersive experience. You'll encounter an all-new kind of excitement!" My review - Mind blowing awesome ride!
Hollywood Dream - The Ride
Initially, we wanted to ride the "Back Drop" version, which has the ride going backwards, but too bad, it was down for maintenance. Anyway, here are the description from USJ website: "This precisely designed ultimate ride experience is like flying through the sky. Cut through the wind with your chosen soundtrack as background music. An unbelievable thrill and exhilaration will shoot through your entire body, in this new sensational roller coaster."
Walking through the main street to our next destination
The Flying Dinosaur
As quoted from USJ website: "Our new state-of-the-art coaster has arrived, featuring the world’s longest track*, and farthest initial drop*. An out-of-control Pteranodon will seize you from behind and pull you high into the sky, with nothing but air space between you and the ground! This over-the-top, thrilling experience will swing you 360 degrees through the world of Jurassic Park."
* Based on company research of 22 flying roller coasters in operation worldwide. Total course length is 1,124 m, and the height of the first drop is 37.8 m.
Well, I do remember experiencing a lot of G-force as I zoom through the air like superman doing loops and turns. Not a bad experience overall.
Aren't we glad to have the express pass to skip the queue....
Interesting notice
Final Fantasy XR Ride
This is a special event hosted by USJ for half a year called "Universal Cool Japan 2018" which will feature Final Fantasy XR Ride, Detective Conan: The World (Escape Game) and Monster Hunter: The Real. In order not to miss it, we have paid for the pass to enter these 3 attractions.
As quoted from USJ website: "This new type of roller coaster draws guests into the Final Fantasy universe, exceeding the excitement of virtual reality! The XR experience features a panoramic view of Final Fantasy in all its splendor, perfectly synchronized with the gravitational power that only a ride can offer. The incredible sensory experience goes beyond virtual reality, allowing guests to rush through the beautiful, enchanting world of Final Fantasy!" My review - So real that it seems like a reality! Amazing technology!
Next, we went for our Detective Conan: The World (Escape Game). In order not to give out spoilers, I can't write anything in detail here. The checks are pretty stringent before we enter the building and the staffs keep reminding guests that photography are not allowed. The puzzles in the game are pretty tough and there is absolutely no way we can complete solving everything given only 60 mins. What was unique was that they provide real live actors to act out the opening and closing scene. It was a pretty interesting experience.
Dropping by Minions park on the way to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
Hogwarts™ Express
Hogsmeade™ - a village where wizards reside, there is an array of shops frequented by students of Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Hogwarts™ Castle
Evening Light Show
We saw on the reviews that the Butterbeer is a must try at USJ. We did order the hot version as the weather is pretty chilling but I must say the drink is too sweet for my liking.
Last view of USJ Main Street before departing
We have a fun time at USJ
Jump Shop did caused us some distraction as we went in to look at the merchandise on our way to the Universal City Station
One Piece and Naruto
The iconic tower of Shinsekai
Ended our day with an awesome Kushikatsu dinner
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