Tokyo Disney vs Universal Studios Japan: Best Park in 2025?
Japan’s got two of the world’s coolest theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan. But let’s be real, you probably don’t have time or budget to visit both of them in the same trip. And that’s why I decided to make this video to be your ultimate guide to picking the right theme park that deserves your time and money. So, let’s get into it. Tokyo Disneyland is everything you would expect from Disney, but with a Japanese twist. It is ultra clean, the staff are ultra polite, and everything runs on time. It’s bright, nostalgic, and super easy to navigate, even if you don’t speak any Japanese. What really sets it apart, in my opinion, is how the locals go all out with Disney themed outfits, matching group costumes, and collectible popcorn baskets dangling from their bags. The energy feels extra magical. If you love that classic fairy tale vibe, think fireworks over Cinderella Castle, cheerful daytime parades, and spontaneous character meet and greets around every corner. You’re going to feel right at home. Meanwhile, Universal Studios Japan is bigger on that blockbuster energy. It’s the place for massive movie sets like the Hogwarts Castle and Jurassic Park’s giant gates with louder crowds cheering for stunt shows and a buzz of organized chaos that somehow feels fun at the same time. You’ll hear more English spoken here, too, since USJ is a magnet for tourists, exchange students, and even local school groups on break. If your dream theme park day is posing with butterbeer in front of Hogwarts, riding the flying dinosaur, or snapping selfies with Mario characters, then this is where you’ll get those big bragworthy moments. When it comes to the rides, you can think of Tokyo Disneyland as the king of safe, timeless classics. The rides here are beautifully maintained with lots of small details that make them feel really magical. Who’s Honey Hunt, for example, is famous because it is one of the first trackless rides that Disney ever did. It’s adorable and way more advanced than the Florida version. Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain are must rides, but they’re not especially intense. It’s about the storytelling, not the scream factor. However, if you want that next level ride design, Tokyo DisneyC is only next door, and it is worth mentioning in this video. It’s got Journey to the Center of the Earth and Tower of Terror, which feels like a major step up in the thrills and horror compared to Tokyo Disneyland. Heck, some people even skip Disneyland altogether and just do Disney Se for that reason. So, it’s always good to know that you have options. On the flip side, USJ is your fix for roller coasters, high-speed rides, and a few once in a-lifetime experiences. The Flying Dinosaur is regularly rated as one of the best steel coasters in the world. Then you’ve got the Hollywood dream coaster, which you can ride backward if you dare. The Spider-Man ride is still a fan favorite, and the 4D shows like Attack on Titan or Resident Evil events, when available, are really unique to Japan. Plus, nothing beats wandering around Hogwarts or drifting a Mario Kart while wearing a Head Mountain AR visor. I’m not going to lie, both parks can get insanely busy, but they each handle the crowds a little differently. Tokyo Disneyland is legendary in this area because it’s known for its efficiency of its lines. Past members diligently manage cues with military level precision. You will still have to wait, but it rally feels too long or chaotic. The Disney Resort app is a lifesaver here because you can book standby passes for high demand rides and enter lotteryies for exclusive shows like the Big Band Beat or the Once Upon a Time castle projection. Both of which cannot be missed in my opinion. So, with this app, it means that you’re not going to be stuck in one spot all day waiting in line for just about everything. But if you want a good spot for the big daytime parades or nighttime fireworks, be prepared because the locals claim their spaces hours in advance with picnic baskets, snacks, and even themed cushions. In Japan, it’s like a whole event in itself. Universal Studios Japan, on the other hand, is more of a freeforall. Popular rides like Mario Kart and Harry Potter can hit wait times of two or even 3 hours on weekends or holidays. Super Nintendo World has a strict timed entry system where you have to book your slot on the app or risk not getting in at all. This is why the Express Pass feels less like an upgrade and more of a survival tool. It can easily double your ticket cost, but hey, it saves you hours of standing around. They sell out fast, too. Some people literally secure their express passes weeks in advance, sometimes before they even buy their basic admission ticket or their flight to Japan. I always say that food is half the fun at theme parks, and they don’t mess around. Tokyo Disneyland leans into cute and seasonal foods, especially during Halloween. There’s also collectible popcorn baskets that are a national obsession with flavors like honey, curry, or even soy sauce butter popcorn. You’ll see guests showing off entire collections clipped to their bags. For a sit-down break, the Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall is like a dining hall inside a story book. And if you’re on the go, the Mickeyshaped treats or little green alien mochi are mustries. Head on over to USJ. It’s all about novelty and big big portions. For example, the butterbeer at the Wizarding World is non-negotiable. It is cold in summer and hot in winter, so it is the perfect match no matter what season you’re in. Jurassic Park’s turkey legs are huge, delicious, and an instant Instagram flex. Trust me, you’re going to smell them from a mile away. Super Nintendo World steps it up with dishes shaped like powerup blocks and mushrooms. Obviously, as a fan of Mario, I got really excited when I saw this. And you really must hit up Chef Toad’s Cafe because it feels like eating inside of a video game. If you ask me personally, both parts are worth it, but they each shine for different reasons. For timeless characters, iconic parades, and family-friendly magic, Tokyo Disneyland takes a spot. From movie worlds, thrill rides, and bragworthy photo ops, USJ is the right one for you. Let me know in the comments which theme park you decide to go to in the end, and which one that you like better. And that’s all I have for today. So, please like, subscribe, and I’ll see you in the next video.
Planning a trip to Japan and can’t decide between Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan (USJ)? You’re not alone. In this video, I break down the real experience after visiting both parks β including the rides, food, crowds, cost, weather, and insider tips β to help you pick the one that truly deserves your time and money.
π’ Which park has better thrill rides?
π Who wins the snack game β butterbeer or alien mochi?
β³ Where will you waste less time in line?
Whether you’re a Disney fan, a Harry Potter nerd, or traveling with kids, this video will help you choose your perfect theme park experience in Japan.
π Drop a comment: Are you Team Disneyland or Team USJ?
π¬ Subscribe for more Japan travel videos & theme park tips!
Use my code “EXCITED5OFF” for additional discounts!
Here are some handpicked deals and discounts for you. I may receive a commissions if you do make a purchase with these links, which goes towards supporting my channel so that I can continue making awesome travel videos!
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:20 Vibe Check
01:41 The Rides
03:09 The Queues
04:46 The Food
06:00 The Verdict – Which One Is Better?
#tokyodisneyland
#disneyseatokyo
#disneysea
#universalstudiosjapan
#japantravel
#usj
2 Comments
Tokyo Disney resort for sure because I been there!
If I visit Japan, thatβs where I wanna go