USJ Halloween Horror Night 2026: Dates, Highlights & Event Guide
July 22, 2026
2026 Universal Studios Japan Halloween is officially here!
USJ Halloween Horror Night is celebrating its 15th anniversary, with all the key details on event dates, Resident Evil: THE DIVE, street zombies, the Zombie Dance, limited-time haunted houses and character events, plus tickets, transportation, and planning tips to help you conquer all the must-do Halloween experiences in Osaka in one go.
Every fall, one of the most anticipated events at Universal Studios Japan is Universal Studios Japan Halloween.
In 2026, as Halloween Horror Nights marks its 15th anniversary, USJ will roll out brand-new immersive horror experiences, bring back fan-favorite haunted houses, and host limited-time character events, from street zombie parades to limited-time attractions, creating a can't-miss nighttime experience for anyone exploring Osaka on their own.
Universal Studios Japan
4.7/5
13060 Reviews
# Amusement parks# Night view
It is incredibly huge. Even if you spent the whole day there, you might not be able to see everything. I only rode one attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and surprisingly, I was able to ride it without waiting in line. The wait for Mario was insane, so I gave up after waiting too long. Just watching the rides was enough to make the day fly by. The 4D rides were also well-made and truly amazing. Even if you buy an Express Pass, you still have to wait in line, so just buy a standard admission ticket. The admission fee is expensive, so I considered doing an "open run" (running as soon as it opened) but wondered if it was really worth going that far, so I took my time. Watching the zombies and seeing the small performances in each area made me lose track of time. I had lunch before going, so I was able to hold out inside just by eating a turkey leg. There were still places I missed, so I would like to visit at least one more time.
€ 37
Details
2026 Universal Studios Halloween Event Dates
Item
Information
Event Name
Halloween Horror Nights
Event Date
September 11–November 8, 2026
Location
Universal Studios Japan
Highlights
Haunted houses, exclusive shows, character events, street scare experiences
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Halloween Horror Night 15th Anniversary Night of Terror
In 2026, Halloween Horror Night celebrates its 15th anniversary, and USJ is leveling up the scares across the board—pulling in fan-favorite elements from past years, adding new horror attractions, and rolling out limited-time performances to create a Halloween event like no other.
The event runs from September 11 to November 8, 2026, and after dark the park transforms into a terrifying world full of unknown dangers.
Bringing together fan-favorite horror characters and stories from over the years
Introducing all-new horror attractions and immersive experiences
Night event hours: 6:00 PM–park closing
Real Review of USJ Halloween
4.7/5
13060 reviews
Trip.com user
Platinum
5/5
It is incredibly huge. Even if you spent the whole day there, you might not be able to see everything. I only rode one attraction, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and surprisingly, I was able to ride it without waiting in line. The wait for Mario was insane, so I gave up after waiting too long. Just watching the rides was enough to make the day fly by. The 4D rides were also well-made and truly amazing. Even if you buy an Express Pass, you still have to wait in line, so just buy a standard admission ticket. The admission fee is expensive, so I considered doing an "open run" (running as soon as it opened) but wondered if it was really worth going that far, so I took my time. Watching the zombies and seeing the small performances in each area made me lose track of time. I had lunch before going, so I was able to hold out inside just by eating a turkey leg. There were still places I missed, so I would like to visit at least one more time.
Trip.com user
Platinum
5/5
Would recommend buying this, had a great time at USJ!
Trip.com user
Platinum
5/5
Hogwarts, Jurassic Park, and that big slide are a MUST.
Trip.com user
Diamond
5/5
It's fun, but there are too many people.
Trip.com user
Platinum
5/5
Bought the Express Pass Premium Unlimited for 4 people on Sunday, 4 Oct, during China's Golden Week. The park was packed, but the pass let us skip the regular lines on all 16 covered attractions. We rode Flying Dinosaur, Mario Kart, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park with short waits. Highlights: Flying Dinosaur
Universal Studios Halloween Japan 2026|Resident Evil Requiem THE DIVE (NEW!)
One of the most anticipated new events of 2026 is "THE DIVE," a brand-new horror attraction from USJ in collaboration with the survival horror game "Resident Evil: Requiem." Set against the backdrop of the game's abandoned Lenwood Hotel and a sanatorium, it delivers an immersive, oppressively tense experience where guests will face monsters attacking from all directions.
Halloween at Universal Studios Japan 2026|Street Zombies POWER UP!
The most anticipated Halloween street-zombie event is coming back in 2026, bigger than ever. This year, the park will feature the most zombies ever and a brand-new storyline distilled from 15 years of horror history, so from the moment you step into the park, you'll be wrapped in a thrilling, spooky atmosphere.
2026 sees the most zombies in history
Horror street experiences throughout the park (excluding some areas)
Event hours: 6:00 PM–park closing
Perfect for travelers who love interactive horror experiences
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Zombie Dance・15th Anniversary Limited Engagement
The popular "Zombie Dance" event is returning in 2026, featuring exclusive 15th-anniversary content. Set to a mix of hit songs and fan-favorite tracks from years past, this is a must-see Halloween Horror Night experience where guests can dance the night away alongside the zombies.
King Gnu's "SO BAD" features a brand-new performance
Ado's "Show", J SOUL BROTHERS III's "Rat-tat-tat", and other popular songs are back
"Relive: Dance of the Zombies ~Halloween Horror Night 15th Anniversary~" Limited-Time Grand Finale Performance
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Halloween Horror Nights Academy ~ 15 Years of Screams
To celebrate the 15th anniversary of "Halloween Horror Nights," USJ is launching a limited-time stage show, "Halloween Horror Nights Academy ~15 Years of Screams~." This event brings together zombies and legendary horror characters from years past, condensing the most iconic horror elements from the last 15 years into a special, limited-time performance.
Bringing together horror characters from across the years of Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Fear Factory ~ A Zombie Journey of Despair
Travelers who love haunted house challenges shouldn’t miss "Fear Factory." You’ll step into a peril-packed zombie-making factory, push through cramped spaces and unknown threats, and experience extreme, no-escape terror.
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Sadako's Curse ~Dark Horror Ride
The classic Japanese horror experience "Sadako's Curse" is returning in 2026! Hop on SPACE FANTASY THE RIDE and brave the darkness to challenge Sadako's curse, where you'll feel the heart-pounding thrill of a roller coaster fused with a terrifying horror story.
Event dates: September 11, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|KATE PRESENTS The Witch of Block 18
Japanese makeup brand KATE has teamed up with USJ to launch a limited-edition experience, "The Witch of No. 18: The Mansion of Playing with Emotions." Centered on the theme of "releasing emotions," this event creates a brand-new sensory experience unlike traditional haunted houses—perfect for travelers who love photo ops and interactive storytelling.
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Chainsaw Man Limited-Time 4-D and Roller Coaster Experiences
In 2026, USJ is teaming up with the hit anime Chainsaw Man for a limited-time event where guests can step into the world of the series and feel the thrill of facing down devils in a 4-D theater. Plus, there's a limited-time roller coaster experience set to the movie's theme song.
"Chainsaw Man: The Chaos 4-D" Limited-Time Experience
The Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc theme song is featured on Hollywood Dream – The Ride
Kenshi Yonezu's song "IRIS OUT" makes a limited-time appearance
Zombie de Dance × Hollywood Dream - The Ride Collaboration Version
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Minions Halloween Meet & Greet
For travelers who prefer to skip the spooky activities during the day, there are plenty of fun, limited-time fall events to enjoy. The Minions will be dressed in their exclusive Halloween costumes to welcome guests to the park—perfect for families looking to snap some photos and join in the fun!
Limited-edition Halloween Minion costumes
Location: Hollywood Area, in front of Minion Park
Event times vary by date
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Trick-or-Treat Event
During the Halloween season, the park is also hosting a parents-and-kids-only activity: just say "Trick or treat!" to a staff member to receive limited-edition candy.
Perfect for family travelers
Event hours: From park opening to 5:00 PM
Excluding SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|JAWS ~Red Alert~ Limited-Time Experience
In addition to the limited-time "Halloween Horror Night" horror events, Universal Studios Japan is also adding Halloween-exclusive elements to several classic attractions for 2026. Among them, the popular "JAWS" ride will feature a nighttime-only version called "JAWS ~Red Alert~," where, once the sun sets, the familiar boat adventure transforms into a suspense-filled, terrifying experience.
Guests can board a small boat in the dark, face sudden jump-scare scenes, and experience a JAWS adventure that’s completely different from the daytime.
Event Highlights:
JAWS Limited-Time Halloween Edition "Red Alert" is here
Nighttime-exclusive horror boat ride experience
Venue: JAWS
Event dates: September 11, 2026 to January 31, 2027
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026 | Jurassic Park Ride ~In the Dark~
If you love thrill rides, don’t miss the Halloween-exclusive "Jurassic Park Ride ~In the Dark~." During the event, the classic Jurassic Park boat adventure switches to a lights-out mode at night, sending you through the dinosaur world with limited visibility for an even more intense, heart-pounding adventure.
Compared to the daytime version, the after-dark experience amps up the mystery and immersion—perfect for a Halloween night challenge.
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|The Wizarding World of Harry Potter・Hogwarts Castle Walk
Beyond the frights, USJ is also rolling out a limited-time event in fall 2026 for travelers who love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. "Hogwarts Castle Walk" takes guests deep inside Hogwarts Castle to explore magical settings you normally can’t experience and enjoy an immersive journey that’s different from a ride.
Step inside Hogwarts Castle and explore
Perfect for Harry Potter fans and family travelers
Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Event dates: September 1, 2026 to January 17, 2027
Halloween at Universal Studios Japan 2026|SUPER NINTENDO WORLD 5th Anniversary Limited-Time Event
In 2026, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD marks the 5th anniversary of its opening and is rolling out a limited-time fall celebration. During the event, brand-new character interactions will debut, including the first-ever appearances of Pink Yoshi and Light Blue Yoshi, bringing even more surprises to Mario’s world.
In addition to the character meet-and-greets, "Bowser Jr.'s Final Battle" will also launch a 5th Anniversary limited edition, letting players dive into even richer interactive content.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD 5th Anniversary Limited-Time Project
Mario, Donkey Kong, and exclusive Yoshi characters make their debut
Pink Yoshi and Light Blue Yoshi make their debut
"Bowser Jr.'s Final Battle" 5th Anniversary Edition Released
Event dates: September 10, 2026 to January 11, 2027
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026|Halloween Horror Nights Academy Special Viewing Area Admission Ticket
Travelers who want an up-close look at the 15th-anniversary limited-time show can purchase a special viewing area ticket for "Halloween Horror Night Academy ~15 Years of Screams~." With a seat in the designated viewing area, you can enjoy the limited-time stage performance, which brings together horror elements from throughout the years, from an even closer perspective.
Enjoy the 15th-Anniversary Limited-Time Show from an exclusive viewing area
See "Halloween Horror Night Academy — 15 Years of Screams" up close
Viewing location: Gramercy Park
Sales start time: Around 12:00 on July 14, 2026
Ticket price: From ¥2,100 (varies by entry date)
Available for purchase on the official USJ website
How to Get to Universal Studios Japan for Halloween
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is located in Osaka’s Konohana Ward, with convenient transportation links to both downtown Osaka and Kansai International Airport.
During the Halloween season, evening events often run until park closing, so it’s best to plan your return route in advance to avoid missing the last train.
Below, we’ve rounded up the ways to get to Universal Studios Japan from the airport, as well as how to reach USJ from downtown Osaka.
How to Get from Kansai Airport to Universal Studios
Departure City
Getting There
Route
Travel time
Cost Reference
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
JR trains
Kansai Airport Station → JR Osaka Station → Transfer at JR Nishikujo Station → JR Universal City Station
About 70–80 minutes
From approx. ¥1,210
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Limousine Bus
Kansai Airport → Downtown Osaka (Osaka Station, Hotel New Hankyu, etc.) → then transfer to JR for Universal Studios
About 90–120 minutes
From approx. ¥1,800
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Taxi/Private Car Charter
Direct from the airport to Universal Studios Japan
About 70–90 minutes
Approx. ¥20,000–30,000 (varies by vehicle type and time)
Recommended ways to ride JR trains
To get from Kansai Airport to USJ, your best bet is to take JR:
Kansai Airport Station → JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service / Limited Express trains bound for Osaka → At Osaka Station, transfer to the JR Osaka Loop Line → Transfer at Nishikujo Station to the JR Yumesaki Line → Get off at Universal City Station
After arriving, it's just a short 5-minute walk to the entrance of Universal Studios Japan.
🔥Unlock 8% OFF on Car Rentals
Whether you're planning a road trip, a business journey, or just need a reliable ride, now is the perfect time to save. Use the coupon to enjoy this exclusive offer. Rent a car today and hit the road with extra savings!
Important Tips Going Universal Studios Japan Halloween
Before you head to Universal Studios Halloween 2026, we recommend getting the following items ready in advance to make your daytime park visit and your nighttime Halloween Horror Nights experience go even more smoothly.
Japan SIM card: Get your Japan eSIM or Wi-Fi router ready in advance so you can easily use the official USJ app to check maps, ride wait times, event info, and your e-tickets.
Halloween Costumes: Get ready with simple accessories like pumpkin hats, character outfits, or Halloween hair clips—they’ll make your photos at the park’s exclusive events even more festive!
Portable charger: We recommend bringing a high-capacity portable charger, as taking photos, recording videos, and using the USJ App in the park will quickly drain your phone battery.
Comfortable shoes: USJ is huge, and during Halloween it’s easy to spend a long time in line, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Light jacket/windbreaker: From September to November, nights in Osaka can get chilly, so if you're attending Halloween Horror Night after 6:00 PM, it's a good idea to bring a jacket.
Water and snacks: It’s going to be busy during the event, and lines at restaurants and food stalls might be long, so it’s a good idea to pack some simple refreshments.
Tickets and Express Passes: Halloween-exclusive events are wildly popular, so we recommend buying your USJ tickets in advance; if you want to save time in line, add an Express Pass.
Cash and Credit Cards: While you can use credit cards or digital payments for some purchases in the park, it's a good idea to keep a small amount of Japanese Yen on hand just in case!
Itinerary Planning: We recommend spending your day enjoying the regular attractions and character meet-and-greets, then saving the evening for the spine-tingling thrills of Halloween Horror Nights.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.76km from downtown
Before booking, I compared countless hotels and read some mixed and negative reviews about the Royal, so I was honestly a bit hesitant. But after much thought, I realized that having three breakfasts included would be incredibly convenient, so I decided to give it a try. And the result? It truly exceeded my expectations! First off, the room was very clean, with none of the hygiene issues mentioned in some reviews. Plus, the room was cleaned daily. The breakfast was also excellent—Western style, with meat, vegetables, fruits, various fresh juices, and coffee ☕️, all readily available. We also made use of the self-service laundry 👚 every day, which was incredibly convenient and saved us a lot of hassle. As for transportation, it's closer to Yodoyabashi (than Honmachi), about a 5-minute walk, making it easy to get anywhere. All in all, it was a very, very, very satisfying travel experience ☺️
Uehommachi/Tennoji/Southern Osaka Osaka|3.56km from downtown
This hotel is well-located, very close to Namba subway station, making it convenient to get to any tourist spot in Osaka. There's also a FamilyMart nearby for any necessities. Whether you're ordering takeout or calling a taxi, it's all very convenient.
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|3.29km from downtown
It's located in Namba which is one of the busiest and exciting neighborhoods in Osaka. Direct train to KIX in the same building is the biggest plus. Dotonbori is only 10 min walk away. We had an amazing sushi dinner a few mins from the hotel. You never get hungry staying there. Front desk staff speak very good English. If you opt out of breakfast, the cafe on 3rd floor facing express train station is an excellent choice for coffee and pastries. A few min walk there an excellent brunch cafe that opens at 8 am. If you arrive by train from Kyoto/Nara, it's a little past to n navigate to the hotel. Just get to the 3rd floor first around Takashimaya. Signage is mucus easier from there.
Rooms are spacious. We picked the renovated room Swiss Select. It's absolutely worth paying a little bit more. I'll definitely stay there again should I be visiting Osaka in the future.
The location is fantastic, right across from Daimaru Department Store. The hotel is directly above a subway station, so you can access it without even going outside. The room size was adequate, comparable to a budget hotel back home, but the food here is much better. On the 2nd floor, there's a Japanese buffet restaurant, and on the 3rd floor, a Western buffet, both offering pretty satisfying meals.
My stay during this trip was great. The hotel's location is excellent, just a short walk to the station, making it very convenient for sightseeing. The room was spotlessly clean, and the facilities were well-maintained. The soundproofing was good, so it was quiet at night, allowing for a good rest. The staff were polite and patient, and communication was smooth. Overall, it offers good value for money, and it's definitely worth staying here when visiting the area.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.57km from downtown
1. **Location**
This was my second visit to Osaka. Although it's part of the Umeda area, it's conveniently located midway between Namba and Umeda. It's situated between Nishi-Umeda Station and Higobashi Station on the Yotsubashi Line, and also close to Yodoyabashi Station on the Midosuji Line, making transportation very convenient. What's even more appealing is the Dojima underground shopping street right in front of the hotel, allowing direct underground access to Osaka Station, which was a huge plus for easy travel.
2. **Hotel Facilities**
According to the Palace Hotel Group, which developed the hotel brand, the name 'Zentis' is a combination of words and a naming concept derived from:
- **Zen (禅)**: The Eastern philosophical concept of 'Zen' representing peace of mind, emptiness, restrained aesthetics, and richness within restraint.
- **Intuition / Insight**: A space that resonates with the senses and intuition of individual guests.
- **Aesthetics**: A sophisticated design sense that is understated yet refined.
Indeed, the interior design of Zentis Osaka was handled by world-renowned designer Tara Bernerd, famous for skillfully blending traditional Japanese 'Zen' aesthetics (Eastern emptiness and naturalism) with modern Western sensibilities.
- **Use of Natural Materials**: Utilizes eco-friendly materials like wood, stone, and warm-toned fabrics.
- **Clean Design**: Avoids excessive decoration, emphasizing spatial openness and flow.
- **Peace of Mind**: Although located in the heart of the city (Osaka Dojima), the moment you step inside, it creates a serene atmosphere unique to 'Zen,' bringing a sense of calm and order.
The rooms were also clean, and I particularly liked that they had hardwood floors instead of carpet.
3. **Staff Friendliness**
I arrived early on the first day, intending to just drop off my luggage and go sightseeing, but they allowed an early check-in. All the staff were very kind and helpful, which I appreciated.
5. **Overall Conclusion**
If I visit Osaka again, I would definitely want to stay here.
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|2.56km from downtown
I love to stay in this Hotel. The room is bigger than i expected, you can open two suitcases at the same time.There is hot spring . Ths space is not too big , but luckily ,i am the only one to use it in the early morning.there are free ramen and ice cream for supper. It also probide ice pillow in summer to help sleep better at night. i can say that is very traditional Japanese hotel.The service is quite nice.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.78km from downtown
This is an established, high-end hotel in Osaka, located in a prime spot along the Yodogawa River. It's the perfect place to watch the fireworks displays and the Tenjin Matsuri festival. You often see prominent Japanese figures and corporate groups here, and the hotel even has several upscale restaurants that you can book. Last time, when I tried to book a room for the fireworks display, I couldn't get one with a direct view of the fireworks, which was a real shame. I hope I have better luck next time I try to book!
The room was decent, and the cleanliness and service were also quite good. The hotel's free shuttle every half hour to Osaka Station's transportation hub was a nice touch and very convenient. My only complaint is that for this room type, I was given the lowest floor (the 5th floor) instead of a higher one, so I missed out on seeing the Osaka cityscape.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.72km from downtown
At Dormy Inn Kithama, every stay is a perfect harmony of comfort and thoughtful hospitality. From the moment you enter, the serene ambiance and impeccable cleanliness set a tone of deep relaxation. The signature natural hot spring onsen washes away travel fatigue, while the complimentary late-night ramen is a delight for the soul. Rooms are cozy sanctuaries, equipped with premium amenities and the famously comfortable pajamas. Each day begins beautifully with a generous and delicious breakfast buffet. It’s more than a hotel—it’s a rejuvenating retreat where every detail is crafted for your peace and satisfaction.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.38km from downtown
The hotel is just a 3-minute walk from Fukushima Station. The front desk staff were very friendly and helpful, guiding me through the self-check-in kiosk and storing my luggage after checkout. If you arrive by airport limousine bus, you can get off at the final stop and walk about 15–20 minutes to the hotel.
The room was very clean, and the bed and pillows were so comfortable that I fell asleep right away. I also appreciated the free ice machine on our floor, which was great for enjoying cold drinks. The housekeeping staff were wonderful as well—even though they spoke limited English, they kindly used translation devices to communicate with us. Overall, it’s great value at HKD 655 per night (note: there is an additional HKD 145 hot spring tax payable at the hotel).
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.6km from downtown
The room isn't very spacious, and there's no complimentary bottled water. Luckily, there's a 7-Eleven and a drugstore downstairs, which is convenient for grabbing essentials. Check-in was quick and easy, and the room was clean, though the duvet wasn't very comfortable. The hotel's location is excellent, very close to the subway station, making it easy to get around.
This was my first trip to Osaka, and staying at this hotel made the experience even more memorable. The hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. The staff were incredibly friendly, professional, and always willing to help with any questions I had. Housekeeping did an excellent job every day, keeping the room spotless and neatly organized.
I was especially impressed by the attention to detail and the care shown by the staff. I even left a tip for housekeeping, but they kindly did not take it, which showed their professionalism and dedication to providing great service without expecting anything in return.
The hotel was comfortable, clean, and welcoming throughout my stay. I truly appreciated the hospitality and excellent service. If I visit Osaka again in the future, I will definitely book this hotel again and will gladly recommend it to my friends and family. Thank you for making my first Osaka trip such a wonderful experience!
I chose the Hotel Vischio Osaka by Granvia for my trip to Osaka, and its location is truly unbeatable. It's just a few minutes' walk from JR Osaka Station, making transfers to Kyoto and Kobe incredibly convenient. Shopping is also a breeze, with large department stores and electronics shops right next door, and drugstores and convenience stores everywhere.
The overall design is simple and modern, and the lobby is quiet and spacious, without feeling crowded or noisy. The room was quite roomy for a Japanese hotel, meticulously clean, and I could fully open my suitcase. The mattress was just right, not too soft or too firm, and the soundproofing was excellent, allowing for a peaceful night's sleep even in a bustling commercial area. The amenities were thoughtful, including a humidifier and air purifier, and complimentary toiletries.
The buffet breakfast offered a good mix of Japanese and Western dishes, with a wide variety and fresh ingredients. The hotel also has a self-service laundry room, which is very practical for longer trips. The front desk service was polite and attentive, and luggage storage was very convenient.
This hotel is perfect for both short sightseeing trips and multi-day shopping excursions. It's a top choice for accommodation in Umeda, and I'd be happy to stay here again on my next visit to Osaka.
Located in Osaka's Chuo ward, it's a convenient ten-minute walk from Osaka Station. Nearby subway exits directly connect to shopping malls and train lines. The Kansai Airport Limousine Bus stop is also less than a five-minute walk away, making transportation incredibly convenient. The hotel breakfast is excellent and varied, and they offer drinks and light meals throughout the day. I'd definitely stay here again if I get the chance.
This hotel is incredibly convenient for reaching Kansai Airport; you just cross the street after heading downstairs, and you're practically there. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants on the 8th floor right below the hotel, which is fantastic! Hoshino Coffee, which is especially delicious, is also there! The hotel staff are exceptionally warm and helpful, even assisting with check-in. During my stay, my shoes broke in the lobby, and when I needed to throw them away, a staff member proactively offered to take them. While you have to ask staff for skincare products, everything else you need can be found in the lobby. There's also a coffee machine and a cold water dispenser downstairs, which is super convenient! Each floor seems to have a water dispenser, which is why there's no bottled water in the rooms!
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|3.11km from downtown
One of the best hotel we stayed in Osaka. It's a great location to explore and if you are lucky you can spot some cool cars or motorcycle around the area. Especially near the American mura at night. We love to walk around and explore and came across the Liberty Walk Osaka. We took the ' Darth Vader' looking train from Kansai airport at the Nankai line. We spotted the Dainese shop from the train and went to check it out. They have some Valentino Rossi official merchandise. It's just below the Keihan hotel. Can't remember most of the road name but we were just walking about using Google map trying to check out the Osaka Loop where if ur lucky you could spot some cool cars and motorcycles.
I have to say, this is definitely not the closest hotel to the entrance; the hotel upstairs from the 'Shark' building next door is, but! This has been the most amazing hotel experience for me in all my trips to Japan! The restaurant offers afternoon tea service in the early afternoon, available to all guests (though I didn't have time to go). The triple room was perfect for my family of three to get good rest. Downstairs, there are abundant commercial facilities, including convenience stores, ramen shops, Saizeriya, and Hard Rock… plenty of dining options. The most thoughtful amenity is the rooftop hot spring bath. It costs 2000 yen per person, half price for children. I saw some reviews complaining about the fee, but this price includes the hot spring bath, a drink for everyone, and Haagen-Dazs for kids. Of course, there's draft beer. All toiletries are single-use mini-packages, including facial cleanser, makeup remover, and face masks, all from the Sekkisei brand. 2000 yen is only about 80 RMB. After soaking, you can enjoy a draft beer while sitting on a sofa and admiring the night view. Such great value!
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.31km from downtown
Loved our stay at City Plaza Osaka! We used Osaka as a base for our trip, going on multiple short day-trips followed by a longer stay in Tokyo, with one final night in Osaka before heading home. First room was clean and cozy, second room was HUGE and perfect for repacking our checked bag. Both rooms were comfortable and clean with excellent water pressure in the shower. Plenty of nice cafes and restaurants nearby, so didn’t try the hotel breakfast, but highly recommend Osaka Engine (has gluten free ramen options!) for a delicious meal! The FamilyMart downstairs was very convenient, the hotel staff were friendly and helpful, and the onsen was the cherry on top. The hotel location was great, easy walking distance to various metro stations and sights like Osaka Castle. 10/10 would stay again!
The rooms are a bit larger than hotels in the city center. It's super close to Sakurajima Station on the JR line, just across the street, which is very convenient. Plus, taking the subway to Nishikujo and transferring to the Kansai Airport Line is incredibly easy, with a direct transfer right in the station.
I booked the ART Hotel Osaka Bay a month in advance, and overall, I found it to be quite good value for money.
We were given a room on the 41st floor this time. Being so high up, the view was largely unobstructed and fantastic, especially the city nightscape of Osaka, which was really beautiful. This is definitely one of the hotel's biggest highlights. However, I'm not sure if it's due to being on a higher floor, but when leaning against the headboard, I could feel a slight vibration in the room. I confirmed there were no earthquakes during these days.
Transportation was also more convenient than I expected. The hotel offers a free shuttle to Universal Studios Japan (USJ), but we didn't use it because taking the JR train was already very convenient, getting us to USJ in about 20 minutes. Traveling to other parts of Osaka was also smooth, so if your main itinerary includes USJ and Osaka city center, the location here is actually quite good. Plus, if you're going to Kansai Airport, the JR train outside the hotel goes directly there without transfers, taking about an hour.
Overall, the room's cleanliness seemed decent. The bedding, bathroom, and other commonly visible areas were quite clean. However, there's room for improvement in detailed cleaning. Some spots that are usually not easily noticed were clearly not thoroughly cleaned; for example, when I pulled open a drawer, I found a fair amount of dust inside. While these areas don't affect a normal stay, it's a bit of a letdown for a hotel of this caliber.
The front desk staff were generally professional, efficient with check-ins and inquiries, but their service attitude was quite standardized and not particularly warm.
What negatively impacted my experience the most during this stay was actually a very small thing – the complimentary bottled water.
We stayed for 4 nights, and the hotel provides 2 bottles of free mineral water daily. Since we didn't request daily housekeeping, the 2 bottles for the second day were not replenished. When I called on the third day, we simply wanted to receive the 2 bottles for that day, plus the 2 bottles that weren't replenished from the previous day, totaling 4 bottles. The phone operator even took the time to specifically confirm whether we had indeed not received them before. They finally confirmed that they could replenish them, but when the staff member brought them to the room, they still only brought 2 bottles.
Even more perplexing, the same thing happened again on the fourth day. Over the phone, it was clearly confirmed that 2 bottles were missing before, and they agreed to replenish them, but in the end, only 2 bottles were delivered again.
Honestly, two bottles of mineral water aren't worth much, and we weren't at all concerned about the cost. What was truly uncomfortable was having to repeatedly explain and confirm for a few bottles of water for two consecutive days, only for the confirmed quantity not to be delivered in the end. The whole process made it feel as if the guests were lying or trying to take advantage of the hotel over two free bottles of water. For a hotel that serves international tourists, this kind of experience is really unnecessary.
Overall, the hotel's facilities, views, transportation, and price are all good, especially the view from the high-floor rooms, which is a big plus. Booking in advance offers great value for money. However, there's room for improvement in cleaning details and service procedures. Often, what affects a guest's experience isn't the monetary value of two bottles of water, but rather whether the hotel shows basic trust and respect when handling a small matter.
Osaka Castle/Kyobashi/Eastern Osaka Osaka|2.78km from downtown
The breakfast exceeded my expectations; they had my favorite wagyu beef, ice cream, a variety of drinks, fruits, and even snacks that could double as souvenirs. However, the room felt a bit cramped and dated. For instance, there was only one chair and a small table, making it difficult to eat takeout. The TV wasn't mounted on the wall, which made the space feel even narrower. If there was a long sofa by the window, it would prevent guests from having to sit on the bed immediately upon entering the room.
During checkout, I realized I had been misled by the hotel package. I thought I needed to purchase a specific bathing package for the hot springs, and that this package didn't include breakfast, requiring me to pay extra for it. In reality, all guests could use the hot springs for free. It took about 2.5 hours on the day of checkout to sort things out with the platform and get a refund for the overpayment.
There's a chapel inside the hotel, which would be perfect for newlyweds to hold a reception.
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.38km from downtown
Location: The hotel boasts an excellent location on the Yotsubashi line. It's incredibly convenient for tourists, whether you're coming from the airport or returning after a day of sightseeing, as it's right outside the subway exit. This is especially good for tired travelers, as you don't have to walk far.
Facilities: The hotel is somewhat like an economy business hotel. The rooms are small, the hallways aren't very wide; everything feels a bit compact. It seems well-suited for business travelers or solo guests.
Service: The service is good. You can pick up amenities you need from the front desk yourself. If you want your room cleaned, you can put up a sign; otherwise, they won't clean it, but they'll leave fresh towels and amenities on your doorknob daily, which is a thoughtful touch. The hotel's highlights are its hot spring and free evening drinks. The hot spring is quiet and comfortable with few people, perfect for relaxing after a long day. For those who enjoy a drink, the complimentary evening beverages can help you unwind and sleep.
Food: The breakfast is also good, offering a variety of typical Japanese dishes.
🔥Exclusive Hotels Deal: Up to 10% OFF for New Users
Discover the world with Trip.com! Book the perfect hotel anywhere in the world and get an unbeatable 10% discount if you're a first-time user! Download our app now and start planning your next trip with ease.
Just click this link and download the Trip.com App, after successfully registering as a member, use it when you place an order!
USJ Halloween Horror Night 2026 will take place from 11 September to 8 November 2026. The event features seasonal Halloween entertainment, horror attractions, and limited time experiences at Universal Studios Japan.
Do I need a separate ticket for USJ Halloween Horror Night?
No, most Halloween Horror Night experiences are included with your regular USJ Studio Pass. However, some special attractions, timed entry experiences, or Express Pass options may require additional fees.
Where can I buy USJ Halloween tickets?
You can purchase Universal Studios Japan tickets on Trip.com before your trip. Booking early is recommended, especially for weekends and peak Halloween dates when the park is expected to be crowded.
Is USJ Halloween Horror Night suitable for children?
Some Halloween experiences may be scary, especially nighttime horror attractions and zombie events. Families with young children should check attraction details before visiting.
Can I wear Halloween costumes at USJ?
Yes, guests can wear Halloween costumes during selected periods. However, USJ has costume guidelines to ensure safety and a comfortable experience for all visitors.
What is the best time to visit USJ Halloween Horror Night?
Weekdays in September or early October are usually better choices for smaller crowds. Weekends and closer to Halloween tend to be busier.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.