Reader’s Question: On February 12th (Thursday), I will be going to USJ. 1. I want to ride Donkey and Mario Kart. 2. The Express Pass 4 for the two rides mentioned above costs 20,000 yen, which is quite expensive. 3.
Since Donkey is the most crowded, I plan to ride it first thing in the morning, and then ride Mario Kart, which is less crowded, during the time slots for the express tickets or during the free entry time in the evening. 4. With this route, I feel like I could ride other attractions like Harry Potter and Flying Dinosaur without having to pay for the Express Pass 4. 5. I can wait around 120 minutes if needed. Given that I want to ride both Donkey and Mario Kart, as well as other attractions, should I buy the Express Pass 4? It’s been a while since I last went to USJ, and I’m not sure about the crowd situation in February, so I would like to hear opinions from knowledgeable people! Also, at Disney, I can’t ride Tower of Terror, but I can handle other thrill rides (I can ride Center and Splash, but I’m a bit uncomfortable with the final drop). Are there any rides at Universal that give a feeling of weightlessness like Tower of Terror?
Should You Buy the Express Pass 4 for USJ?
Hey there, fellow travelers and Universal Studios Japan (USJ) fans! Let me share a little insight and some personal thoughts on how to navigate the magical world of USJ, especially if you’re planning to visit on a busy day in February. I’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring this park, and boy, do I have some tips to ensure you have a fantastic experience without breaking the bank!
So, I totally get where you’re coming from with the Express Pass 4 costing a whopping 20,000 yen—that’s like, a small fortune! I remember the first time I went to USJ, I stood at the ticket counter just staring at those prices like they were written in a foreign language. It’s a hefty price tag that can make anyone’s wallet weep. But let’s break it down, shall we?
The Crowds in February
First off, let’s talk about February. It’s a bit of a mixed bag. While you might think winter means fewer crowds, it can actually get pretty packed because of seasonal events, school holidays, and visitors trying to escape the cold. I remember one February visit where I thought I was being clever going during the week, only to find that the lines for rides were still crazy long! So, being strategic is key.
Now, you’re right in wanting to hit the Donkey Kong ride first thing in the morning. That ride is a total crowd magnet, and if you don’t get there early, you could be waiting for ages. I once made the rookie mistake of thinking I could just stroll over later in the day, and let me tell you, I ended up waiting for over two hours. Not fun, especially when you have other rides on your list!
Your Plan for the Day
With your plan to ride Donkey first, I think you’re on the right track! After conquering that beast, sliding over to Mario Kart, which is indeed less crowded, during the express time or the evening hours sounds like a smart plan. I love this kind of strategy! I mean, why not maximize your day, right? Plus, it gives you a chance to explore other amazing attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and the Flying Dinosaur.
Honestly, I’ve always found that if you’re willing to wait around 120 minutes, you can usually manage a decent amount of rides without needing that Express Pass. Sure, waiting is never ideal, but think of it as part of the adventure—you might just meet some fun people in line! I’ve made friends with fellow travelers just by chit-chatting while waiting. And those memories are worth their weight in gold.
To Buy or Not to Buy the Express Pass 4
Now, here comes the million-dollar question: should you buy the Express Pass 4? If you’re only looking to prioritize Donkey and Mario Kart, and you’ve got the patience for waiting, you might just be able to swing it without the pass. However, if you find yourself getting anxious about time or really want to maximize your rides, it might be worth the splurge. Also, consider the time of your visit: if it feels crowded the morning of your visit, go for the pass. Don’t let that fear of missing out ruin your day!
Ultimately, this is your trip and your experience. My advice? Maybe keep an eye on the wait times for the rides when you arrive. If the lines for Donkey look unmanageable, you can always pivot and buy the Express Pass on the spot. They usually have availability, and you don’t want to be left out in the cold if the crowds are gnarly!
Universal Rides with a Weightless Feel
Now, let’s talk about your discomfort with rides like Tower of Terror at Disney. I totally get that! Some rides can really give you that heart-in-your-throat feeling, and not everyone vibes with that! Thankfully, USJ has a few rides that offer a similar adrenaline rush without the terrifying drop. One of my favorites is the Flying Dinosaur. While it’s an intense roller coaster, the way you’re flung through the air gives an exhilarating sense of weightlessness that can be thrilling without being terrifying. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like a dinosaur soaring through the skies, right?
Another ride to consider is Jurassic Park – The Ride. You’ll get that awesome feeling of anticipation as you go through the lush landscapes of Jurassic Park, and it has a drop, but it’s not the same vibe as Tower of Terror. Plus, the animatronics and theming are so immersive that you might find yourself smiling more than screaming!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s all about what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you have that adventurous spirit—go all in and ride whatever strikes your fancy! If you’re more cautious, feel free to take your time and enjoy the park’s atmosphere. There’s so much to see and do beyond just the rides. I’ve spent hours just wandering around, soaking in the sights, and trying out all the incredible food stalls.
So go ahead and enjoy your day at USJ! You’re set for an unforgettable experience, and whether you opt for the Express Pass or not, just remember to take it all in, enjoy each ride, and maybe even grab a fluffy giant doughnut or some delicious takoyaki while you’re at it. Happy adventures!
