Hello there, Riley here! I’m back from my trip to Japan and it was an amazing experience! Not only did I enjoy the vibrant cities of Osaka and Tokyo, I was lucky enough to experience Universal Studios Japan!

Universal Studios Japan is an absolute gamer’s paradise—a dream brought to life. From heart-pounding rides to immersive attractions featuring beloved characters, this park is designed to light up the face of anyone who walks through its gates. And a gamer, I am. Being a proud owner of the legendary Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Super Nintendo World was an absolute must-visit within Universal Studios Japan for me.

Now, let me share my personal journey into the Mushroom Kingdom!

I arrived at Universal Studios Japan bright and early, determined to outsmart the crowds. The park, nestled in Osaka, is a mere 30-minute journey from Kansai International Airport. I opted for the JR train, hopping off at Universal City Station, where clear signs led the way to the magic awaiting inside.

As I approached the entrance, the familiar jingle of the Super Mario theme played, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable day. Giant question blocks greeted me, tempting my inner adventurer to jump and hit them, just like our favourite Italian plumber. Of course, I resisted the urge, not wanting to embarrass myself before even entering the park.

Power-Up Band Magic

Equipped with my Power-Up Band, I felt like a true hero as I entered the Mushroom Kingdom. This high-tech wristband allowed me to interact with various elements throughout the park, collecting virtual coins and power-ups along the way. It was like living inside a real-life video game!

Mario Kart Madness

The highlight of my day was undoubtedly the Mario Kart ride. After a friendly race to determine our starting positions, my friends and I hopped into our colourful karts and zoomed through the vivid landscapes of the Mushroom Kingdom. With every twist and turn, I couldn’t help but feel the exhilaration of a real-life race. The only thing missing was the actual smell of burning rubber.

Super Mario Food!

After all the excitement, it was time to refuel at Toadstool Terrace. The themed restaurant offered a menu filled with delightful treats inspired by Nintendo characters. From Mario’s Power-Up Pizza to Princess Peach’s Peach Parfait, every dish was a delicious nod to the games that fueled our childhood imaginations.

Super Nintendo Souvenirs

Of course, no visit is complete without souvenirs. I snagged a T-shirt, a hat, and a cuddly stuffed animal. And not just a hat, an oversized hat, I finally became Mario. Oh, and a Super Mushroom from Super Nintendo World to keep the magic alive beyond the park.

Before you embark on your own adventure, here are a few personal tips:

• Purchase your tickets in advance—it’s a time-saver.
• Rise with the sun to beat the crowds.
• Equip yourself with the Universal Studios Japan app for seamless planning.
• Indulge in the diverse culinary offerings.
• Capture every magical moment with your camera.
• If you have a Super Nintendo Switch, bring it along and let the Power-Up Bands elevate your park experience to new heights.

In conclusion, my time at Universal Studios Japan was nothing short of amazing—an absolute pilgrimage for any gamer. I eagerly anticipate the day I can return and delve deeper into the enchanting world of Super Nintendo World.

May your journey at Universal Studios Japan be nothing short of magical! Thank you for reading as always!