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Disability Accessibility Shortcut information index

• Where can I buy standard discounted Tokyo Disneyland tickets?
• Can I buy Tokyo Disney Disabled tickets?
• How do I use my disability pass?
• What is a Pram as a Wheelchair sticker?
• How much does a Tokyo Disney Resort Disability pass cost?
• What is the certificate to prove your disability at Tokyo Disney Resort?
• Is there a place to wait instead of the ride queue at Tokyo Disney Resort?
• Can I get a Disability Access Service pass added to a day pass?
• Can my family group ride with me using my disability pass?
• Can I do other rides whilst waiting for my DAS time slot?
• Can I take my wheelchair on the Tokyo Disney Resort monorail or shuttle bus?
• Tokyo Disney Resort disabilities resource page

Tokyo Disneyland tickets

Disability Access Services

 How do I buy a Tokyo Disney Disability pass?

You can only buy a Tokyo Disneyland disability entrance ticket at the official Tokyo Disney Resort website or at an official Tokyo Disney Hotel ticket counter.

Where should I buy our other Tokyo Disney Tickets?

You can buy non-disability standard entrance tickets for the rest of your family or friends online also on the official website, or at the official third party discount seller Klook.

Buy your Disneyland tickets at Klook online here

How do I enter Disneyland or DisneySea with my Disability ticket?

After buying your Disney entrance tickets, upon arrival at the Tokyo Disney park  produce your ticket barcode on your mobile phone or paper ticket.
You will need to produce proof of your disability to enter.

You will still need to Register inside the park at your first ride.

(Make sure all members of your party who may wish to ride with you – up to five people – are also present so they can also be noted as your ride group)

Are Tokyo Disney Resort disability tickets cheaper?

Yes, Tokyo Disney Resort Disability one day passes are cheaper than standard one day passes. They are around AUD$25 and USD$11 cheaper than standard Tokyo Disneyland day passes, or roughly 20% cheaper.

Your accompanying Carer can also buy a disability one day pass. Only one accompanying person may buy a disabled pass per disabled pass visitor.

Here are the current (August 2023) ticket prices for comparison:

Tokyo Disneyland Disability park entrance ticket price:

Adult ticket price ¥6,800 Junior ¥5,600 Child ¥4,000

(Adult ¥6,800 = AUD$72.51, USD$46.44)

Tokyo Disneyland Standard day pass price:

Adult ¥8,400 Junior ¥7,000 Child ¥5,000
(Adult ticket price ¥8,400 = AUD$89.57, USD$57.36)

Get your free Wise travel money card!

Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

Get your free Wise Card

What certificate or paperwork do I need to prove I am disabled?

There isn’t a great deal of information, other than eligible certificates should be a “certificate for” their disability, including physical, developmental (neurodiverse such as Autism / ASD and ADHD), neurological, cognitive and intellectual / mental disabilities.
This implies official-issued documents such as government documents.

That said, there are numerous incidences of NDIS or Doctors letters that are accepted as proof for DAS at Tokyo Disneyland.

Australian Compaion & Carers Cards

Australian NSW Companion Cards and even Carers pension cards would have a strong case, particularly if they include a photograph. This is because they are issued by the state or federal governments.

What disability proof worked for us:

NDIS original paperwork for Australians carries weight – state that it is a government document.

Bring an accompanying doctor’s letter on their letterhead stating queuing may be difficult/not possible. MOST LIKELY this alone will work.

I asked a Cast Member if you can try to register with just a doctors letter and was met with some doubt. It can depend on who you register with!

Any kind of carers card, Australian Companion Card or pass with a photo would also be helpful.

UK Blue Cards

UK Blue Cards have been used with success due to them being a government issued identification card with photograph.

Japan has a photo pass system and may assume other countries do also. Explain that your government doesn’t issue the same.

Personally, if I only had a doctor’s letter as proof I would buy a regular Park entrance ticket and not a Disability entrance ticket – just in case the doctor’s letter is rejected as not enough proof (so that you don’t risk losing your entry ticket).

Do I need to take original certificates or can I take photocopies or digital scans?

Only take originals, as copies probably won’t be accepted. Officially they must be originals.

You should always carry your passport in Japan – it’s the law for tourists.

For Disney Disability Registration, you should bring photo id (so, your passport for example) if there is no photo id on your disability certificate or other proof – they probably won’t check it, but just in case.

Tokyo mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Tokyo Disney Resort and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Do I need to supply a Japanese translation of my disability certificate or medical letter?

No. Most don’t. There doesn’t seem to be a requirement for Japanese translations as then this would be a copy, so not admissable as proof.

That said, if my only documentation was a doctor’s letter, a translation may help strengthen your claim.

Can I buy Tokyo Disney multi-day disability tickets?

No. Disability tickets are one day passes only.

Is there Tokyo Disney Resort disabled ride access if I have already bought a standard ticket?

Yes. This is called the Disability Access Service pass. You can add this to your standard park access ticket by registering for the Disability Access Service add-on after you enter the park.

This is obtained by presenting a disability certificate or other acceptable documentation (see above) to one of several park locations, including any ride operator for your first ride. They will register you, your carer and your other group (family) members in the system width you so you can all ride together.

After you have registered for the first time you don’t need to do this process again that day. You can just request your DAS ride return time from ride operators at each ride.

Here are the Tokyo Disney Resort Disability Access Service registration locations:

At Tokyo Disneyland:

• All rides and attractions
• Woodchuck Greeting Trail
• Mickey’s House and Meet Mickey
• Minnie’s Style Studio

At Tokyo DisneySea:

• All rides and attractions
• Village Greeting Place
• Saludos Amigos! Greeting Dock
• Mickey & Friends’ Greeting Trails

Can I register for Disability Access Services for more than one day at a time?

The official website says you need to register each day at each park separately, on the day you attend. It is each day, each park.

Do I need a Carer with me to be registered for a Tokyo Disneyland disability pass?

Yes. If you have visual, mental, or developmental disabilities you must have an able-bodied person accompanying you in order to get a registered disabled pass.

You need one carer per disabled person for some rides like Space Mountain. So if you are a single parent and have two disabled children for example, or are two parents but are outnumbered with disabled children , consider registering only ONE disabled child if you can safely manage more than two on your own. The family group of up to five more people join you anyway.

Can my family or group board with me when I’m using my Disability Access Service (DAS)?

Yes. Up to five other people can board the ride with you when using your DAS. Up to nine people can go with you at a Character Greeting. You’ll need to have all their passes scanned with yours when entering the park with a disability ticket / registering for DAS.

From the Tokyo Disney website:

”At an attraction, this service is valid for up to six persons (yourself and five members of your party).”

How do I use a disability pass to skip the ride queue?

If you have bought a Tokyo Disney Resort Disability entrance ticket then once it is verified at the entrance gates then you will need to register again. After your initial registration at the first ride, reserve each ride by attending the ride and make yourself known to the ride queue attendants. You will receive a return time that equals the current queue wait time.

Watch my DAS registration video

Watch how to do your initial disability ride registration on our YouTube video.

If you have a standard Park entry ticket, then you will need to Register for a Disability Access Pass at your first ride, once for that day.
After you are Registered, then you only need to make what is called a Disability Reservation or Return Time at each ride you want to go on.

Speak to the ride attendants first to Register and once your ticket is digitally linked as a disability pass (as will be your Carer’s and you’ll also need to present all the passes of the family or group members you’re visiting with) then – then after registration you only need to make a ride reservation by attending that ride and receiving a return time.

Do Tokyo Disney Cast Members speak English?

Not all cast members speak English, however cast members do have translation devices or access to them.

When requesting Disability Access to a ride it may be wise to use Google translate or translate a note into Japanese prior, to give or show attendants in case of language barriers.

What happens during the Tokyo Disney Disability Registration Process?

The process takes around ten-fifteen minutes and is a one-off procedure for that day in that park.

If you have a Tokyo Disney Resort Disability entrance ticket your papers will be checked at the front gates. You will still need to do your official DAS Registration at your first ride.

If you have a standard park entrance ticket then you enter the park as normal and register at your first ride.

You may need to queue to register, particularly if you are registering at a popular ride first-thing in the morning such as Beauty and the Beast. I would advise registering at a less popular ride with a shorter queue first.

Cast members will ask to see documentary proof of the disabled person’s disability (see above).

They will photograph the disabled person and register their pass. They will also register/scan the passes of all the accompanying family/friends, so make sure everyone is there for registration.

After registration you will make your first ride Disability Reservation.

How do you make a Disability ride reservation at each ride?

Seek out any ride queue Cast Member who will direct you to the appropriate Cast Member. They usually hold a light stick.

The Cast Member will check the disabled person’s photograph on their system and ask the Carer of the disabled person questions to make sure the disabled person will be able to physically ride the ride and also be able to safely exit the ride in an emergency.

Appropriate questions will also be written in English etc. on cards, and will be about sitting, walking and navigating stairs capabilities.

They may ask if the disabled person is capable of being able to walk or be supported by your Carer out of a ride for safely.

You will be given a return time to come back to the ride so that you don’t have to wait in the queue. The return time will exactly equal the current ride queue time as signposted – a wait time identical to the current wait time for that ride queue.

You will then be free to leave to spend that time elsewhere instead of standing in a queue.

This process is not regarded as a fast pass like a Tokyo Disney paid Premier Pass or the USA Genie+ pass, but a queue place holder.

Can we do other rides whilst waiting for our disability ride return time?

Yes you can provided you can make it back in time (strictly within 15 minutes of your return time).

You should be able to book other ride passes such as a Premier or Priority Pass – you can certainly try. We had some success but also some system blocks.

You can do other rides queuing as a normal park pass guest, however you can only use your Disability Pass one ride at a time, and only once per ride.

Where do I go at my ride queue return time?

You go to the ride Priority Lane – the same place you go to if you have a paid Premier Pass or a 40th Anniversary Priority Pass.

Same as the other Tokyo Disney passes, you will have a pass with barcode listed on you official Tokyo Disney Resort App.

When you return, scan the barcode of your disabled ticket holder’s pass FIRST at the Premier Access/Priority Pass lane. Cast members will need to be notified that you are disabled entries and verify your disabled persons first scan pass with their own device. Then all other members of your party/family group scan as normal.

Watch my DAS return-time ride entry video

Watch how to use your disability return-time on our YouTube video.

What happens if I miss my return time or are running late?

You have up to 15 minutes ONLY after your return time passes to turn up to the ride. So you can arrive back up to fifteen minutes late after your stated DAS pass return time. Cast Members expect you to be on time. You cannot enter any earlier.

Will my Tokyo Disney Disabled Pass get me into Fantasy Springs?

Yes, Fantasy Springs is open to all and you can use your DAS pass on the rides there.

Can I use my DAS Pass to skip the queue for Fantasy Springs rides?

Yes, you can use your DAS pass for a return-time to use the Priority lanes.

What  Tokyo Disneyland Holiday Planning Facebook Group members say…

Okay I just did this last week.

You have to set it up each day at the park, at your first ride you need to use it.

At that time you will show your proof – being in US we showed a doctors letter.

They will scan tickets and get things set up for you. This will take at least five to ten minutes to do. And that’s if they don’t need to find someone else to do it.

After that it should be linked in the app and you’ll basically use it as a premier pass.

You will only have 30 minutes to use it after it is time.

At each ride they will have you confirm a series of saftey basically saying pass holder can evacuate in case of an emergency – they can walk down 200 stairs, climb a ladder, etc. Also that they can hold themselves up right m, things like that.

Next ride will be a little quicker but it still usually took 5 mins to get the return time, sometimes they had to find the right person, grab the book with instructions, etc.

I started keeping Google translate open and using the message “I need to get a disability access return time for my daughter.” Because asking verbally in English was not always immediately understood.

If you need a wheelchair it can get more complicated. We used a stroller as a wheelchair which was not always easy. – Cassie.

Our family is from the U.S. and just returned from Japan spending 4 days at Disneyland and DisneySea. We bought our tickets at full price and did not do a DAS discounted ticket. We used the DAS pass which allowed us to skip waiting in the queue line with everyone else but we still had to wait for the same amount of time outside the queue. To get the DAS pass we needed to show proof of my son’s ASD. To do this I had his primary care physician write a letter on her letterhead stating that my son has ASD and has a difficult time staying with the group and standing in line. Once inside the park, we went to the first attraction we wanted to ride and let them know we wanted to register for a DAS pass. They then asked to see the letter from his doctor and they scanned all of our tickets into a digital DAS pass that was now linked with our park tickets. We were then issued a return time. When that time came we would return to the Priority queue where our park tickets were scanned and we were admitted onto the attraction. To ride other attractions you then go to a cast member at each attraction you want to ride and ask for a DAS pass return time. The cast members have a transtator device which makes communicating with them really easy. They are all really helpful and once you do a few rides it becomes really easy. – Ann.

…we call it DAS disabilty access service. they will ask you to show proof (disability card, doctor’s note etc) that someone in your group has a disability.

after you enter the park, you go to any ride cast member and tell them that you will register for DAS. you show your proof and they take the picture of the person who has the disability. you do the registration once.

you have to tell the attraction cast member that you will use DAS, they will explain safety procedures and you get a return time.

you can do whatever you want while waiting for a return time. you can queue in line for a different ride. you can only use das for one ride at a time. – Group member.

Can I wait somewhere else instead of standing in line or queuing until boarding a ride?

Yes, if you are unable to stand or wait in a ride queue, there are separate ride waiting areas for conditions such as if you have a temporary disability (like a broken leg), are disabled, pregnant, wheelchair bound or elderly.

If you don’t have a DAS pass you will be separated from your group to wait in a special separate area and your group will wait in line as normal and then you can rejoin your party at their ride boarding time.

Can I bring food into Disneyland and DisneySea if we have strict dietary requirements?

Yes you can, and several park restaurants have microwaves available to you.

Are vegetarian meals available at Disney in Tokyo?

Yes, you can get vegetarian meals and a “Special Dietary Menu” at many park restaurants which avoid allergens.

Using a pram or stroller as a wheelchair

If you obtain a special sticker you can have your pram treated as a wheelchair which give you much closer access to rides. Like a wheelchair, staff will transport it to the end of rides for you to. You can also get access to special wheelchair viewing areas in theatres and at shows and parades.

You can get a Pram As A Wheelchair sticker from the monorail stations, official Disney Hotels and at the following locations iin each Tokyo Disney Park:

Tokyo Disneyland

• Stroller & Wheelchair Rentals
• Main Street House
• Cast Members at attractions and
  entertainment programs

Tokyo DisneySea

• Stroller & Wheelchair Rentals
• Guest Relations
• Cast Members at attractions and
  entertainment programs

Is there a special place for those in wheelchairs to view shows and parades?

Yes, and also for prams being used as wheelchairs. One group member has mentioned this area is open to all DAS pass holders. Contact nearby Cast Members to show you how and where to go to access it.

Can I use the Tokyo Disney Resort monorail or buses with a wheelchair?

Yes. There are elevators at each station, and carriage numbers 3 and 4 have spaces for wheelchairs. Staff can help with a ramp if necessary. Ramps are also available to board the free Disney Resort Cruiser bus service.

Where should I buy our other standard Tokyo Disney entry tickets?

You can buy non-disability standard entrance tickets for the rest of your family or friends online also on the official website, or at the official third party discount seller Klook.

Buy your Disneyland tickets at Klook online here

You can get up to 10% off Klook Tokyo & Japan activities with our discount code

Let’s Go Mum Readers new to Klook get 10% off & existing customers get 3% off lots of Klook attractions (not TDR entry tickets) by using our Klook promocode:

LETSGOMUMKLOOK

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online here

Klook conditions: $50 min spend, $50 max discount, 3 times use. Klook new customers can get 10% off and existing customers get 3% off. Klook exclusions list here. This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

Tokyo Disneyland Disability Resorces

A comprehensive English language Disability guide book is available to read here.

It includes a list of where to find disabled rest rooms in Disneyland and DisneySea, special dietary restaurants, and a detailed list of attractions and what abilities are required to ride them and which ones have elevators plus much more.

More disability and ride queue challenges information can be found on the offical TDL website here. and on their barrier free index here

Where can I buy Tokyo Disneyland Tickets online?

You can also read our guide on how to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets online here.

Buy your Tokyo Disneyland tickets online here

Tokyo Disneyland Facebook Group

Love all things Tokyo Disneyland, or just have more questions? Join our 100k+ member Tokyo Disney Facebook Group here!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Further reading…

Read our blog about how to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets here.

You can read more about Tokyo Disneylands best rides here.

You may also be interested in these other Disneyland holidays…

Read about our Aussie family Disneyland Park California holiday here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, please consider giving it a Facebook “Like”, share and we’d love to hear about your own Disney disability experiences in the comments below!

Any quoted prices are correct at early 2025 – alway check the official websites to confirm current prices.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

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The post Tokyo Disney DAS Disability Pass Guest Support beginner’s guide appeared first on Let's go Mum.

There are often miscommunication issues for tourists trying to book tickets at Universal Studios Japan. And there’s complete radio silence when it comes to Disability Access Pass (DAS) passes – online, or otherwise!

It’s important to know that Universal Studios Japan accessibility DAS passes, also known as Guest Services Passes, are available to all eligible visitors.

After months of overseas visitor frustration and generically answered emails following the end of ticket sales at the gate earlier this year, it was time to get the Universal Studios Japan DAS pass update straight “from the horse’s mouth”.

I phoned Universal Studios Japan to get this information

I phoned USJ customer services directly this week (September 2025) to find out exactly what Disability and Carer ticket purchasing options were available to international visitors. The following information was also fact-checked and verified by their supervisor during the phone call.

USJ Accessibility – Disability Support Passes are available

Since all of the Universal Studios Japan ticket booths closed on May 6th of this year it has presented a problem for overseas visitors attempting to buy the lower-priced Disability entrance tickets (also known as the Disability Support Pass or SPs). It was widely publicised that no tickets of any kind would be available for purchase at the gate. Where once visitors were able to buy all tickets including disabled passes at the gates, it appeared that this was no longer possible. However, this is incorrect!

USJ discounted Disability Passes can be purchased at the gate

I was told by the USJ overseas information customer service telephone officer that you can still purchase Universal Studios Japan Disability Support Pass admission tickets at the gate. The cheaper Disability Support Passes can be purchased directly from the USJ Customer Service office located on site, just outside the theme park gates.

There are some Disability Pass purchasing rule changes

Buying USJ Disability Admission Tickets on the day

You can only buy Disability tickets including Carer/Companion tickets on the day of your visit.

and

You can only buy Disability tickets – not standard Studio Passes, Express Passes or VIP Passes.

Universal Port Hotel sells disability admission tickets

Update January 2026 – a group member has reported that you can also now buy disability admission tickets from the Universal Port Hotel.

Do Disability tickets work the same as Studio Passes?

Yes, Universal Japan Disabled Tickets work exactly the same as USJ Studio Passes, including the ability to scan them into the Universal Studios App to book Super Nintendo World Timed Entry.

Where is USJ Customer Service outside the theme park?

Universal Studios Japan Disability tickets are available from the Customer Service Office. This office has been moved from the left side to the right side during their recent gate refurbishment and is now located after you go through Security on the right-hand side.

Will my Disabled Pass get me into Super Nintendo World?

No, your Disability ticket will not get you into Super Nintendo World – it will work on Super Nintendo World rides.

Where can I buy USJ DAS passes online?

The only place any USJ park visitors can purchase DAS passes online is the USJ official Japanese site. The problem with this solution is that the USJ websites often reject overseas credit cards which don’t work with Japan 3D Security.

Which credit cards work on the Universal Studios Japan website?

International credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard which don’t support the exclusive Japanese 3D security system are rejected by the USJ website. Credit Cards which frequently work on the USJ websites (both English and Japanese) are Amex and the Wise Travel Money pre-paid debit card (my readers can get a free Wise Card here)

Get your free Wise travel money card!

Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

Get your free Wise Card

What benefits are available in the USJ Accessibility System?

Accessibility benefits available at Universal Studios include Disability Support Passes to enter the park, and also free timed-entry return Disability Cards to avoid standing and waiting in the general queue. Both require you to prove that you have an acceptable disability via documentation.

Universal Studios Japan Disability Support Passes enable disabled theme park visitors and one companion to access the park with a reduced-price disability passes. Can be purchased online or bought at the gate.

Universal Studios Japan Disability Ride Access Cards enable disabled theme park visitors and up to five companions to wait for their ride wait time elsewhere than the general queue and then access the ride via a priority route. Can be obtained at Customer Service inside the park.

What is the disability time-return ride system?

The time-return ride system requires you to first register for a card to use at the ride to use to avoid queuing to ride. You will receive a return time equal to the queue wait time on your card. You will still be required to wait out the normal ride queuing time before returning to access the ride at the return time via a priority laneway.

How do I get disability access to skip the ride queue?

You will need to get your Disability Ride Pass Card at any ride inside Universal Studios Japan after you have scanned into the park. You will again need to prove that you have an acceptable disability via documentation. See our detailed DAS Pass guide here.

Do I need to have a Disability Support entrance pass to get a disability ride card?

No, you can access the park using a standard Studio Pass and still obtain a disability ride card provided you have the necessary disability paperwork.

How does disability ride time-return work?

First, take your time card to your desired ride with all members of your family who wish to ride with you (maximum number of six people). Approach the ride attendant. Your card will be filled in with a return time which will be a time gap equal to the wait time of that particular ride.

For example, if you arrive at the ride at 2pm and the ride queue time is 2 hours, your time to return will be 4pm. You return to the ride at 4pm and you will then be given access directly to the ride via the priority queue or expedited disability access. You will have a low wait time to board the ride.

The USJ Disability Access Pass (DAS Pass) Guide

If you are looking for more detailed information on the USJ Disability Access Pass (DAS Pass), you can read our USJ DAS Pass beginner’s guide here.

Where should I buy my other family member’s USJ Studio Passes?

Recommended: Buy your standard USJ tickets through sellers designed for international purchasers like Klook, KKDay or Trip so you are issued with the correct date as problems on the USJ official website are common when booking overseas.
Buy your Studio Pass from the websites designed for international purchasers – Klook, KKDay or Trip.

How do I scan a USJ Disability Ticket into the App?

Universal Studios Disability Tickets work the same as any USJ Studio Pass. Watch my YouTube video to follow my step-by-step guide showing you how to scan your Universal Studios Japan theme park Disability and Companion Studio Pass tickets into the official Tokyo Disney Resort App to book Super Nintendo World Timed Entry Passes. Read all about how to book Super Nintendo World Timed Entry in our guide here.

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Universal Studios Japan Planning Facebook Group

Love all things Universal Studios Japan, or just have more questions? Join our 70k+ member Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group here!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own USJ planning experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which will not affect the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of September 2025 – always check with the source website for the most recent prices.

The post How to get the Universal Studios Japan Disability DAS Pass appeared first on Let's go Mum.

KKDay Pre-Sale Universal Japan VIP Passes

Official Universal Studios partner KKday are now offering pre-paid Pre-Sale VIP Tickets. Pre-sale tickets are not always available, but when they are they sell out quickly.

Why should I buy a pre-sale USJ VIP?

The idea of purchasing pre-sale VIPs is that you get first access to those in-demand USJ VIP tickets. VIP Tickets are regarded as the best way to visit Universal Studios Japan – often for little more than the price of the inferior Express Pass. Here is an Express Pass versus VIP Tour comparison.

You can learn all about Universal Studios Japan VIP Tours in my beginner’s guide here.

When are Pre-Sale tickets available for sale?

Pre-sale VIP Tickets are released approximately six days prior to the date the VIP tickets are due for public release – which is 2 months, 1 day prior to the day of visit.

How can I get a pre-sale VIP Tour?

Most USJ tickets release at midnight Japan time. Check what time this is in your country (for example in Australia this is around 2am depending on which state and if it’s daylight savings time) and then start checking from that time onwards. It may take a few hours for them to sell out, but it’s very hard to predict if they will be available, and how long they will be available for.

There has been some confusion around how Pre-Sale VIP Tours work. One member of our Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group writes:

Get your free Wise travel money card!

Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

Get your free Wise Card

Where should I buy USJ VIP Pre-Sale Passes?

You can buy your Universal Studios Japan Pre-Sale VIP tickets through official sellers designed for international tourists like Klook, KKDay and Trip . These are the best websites for overseas purchasers to successfully book English Speaking VIP Tour Passes.

Where can I see the status of my Pre Sale VIP Tour?

By logging in to the KKDay website on PC or on mobile phone, you can access any booking details. Be sure to use the email you used when purchasing your pre-sale – “Continue with Email”. Don’t use your Google account to sign in, even if it is the correct email as a member reported this is a known account duplication issue.

You’ll find the login menu on the top right of a PC and the left top menu on mobile phone. There’s no need to access the app.

Once you’re logged in, click on your account icon. This may be on the top-right of your PC browser or again from the left drop down menu on mobile phone. There you’ll find any upcoming, completed (used) and cancelled bookings. You should see any pre purchases under “Upcoming”.

Look at the bottom for the date your VIP Tour is expected to release for general sale such as the one highlighted here. You should hear back on that date. You’ll also see the confirmed or cancelled status of your pre-sale here.

When will I know I my Pre-Sale VIP has been confirmed?

There is no way of knowing about when a Pre-Sale VIP will be confirmed or cancelled before the date that your Pre-Sale VIP Tour releases for general sale and you can see the tickets on the KKDay website. KKDay support can’t help you with information regarding your presale until that date.

You should receive a notification email of confirmation or cancellation on the date that your Pre-Sale VIP Tour releases for general sale. You’ll find that information by logging into your account to check the status of your booking.

What if my pre-sale VIP is cancelled?

Whilst in the minority, cancellations can happen – but it’s not a disaster! Universal Studios Japan Pre-Sale VIPs can be cancelled for various reasons.

When you buy your pre-sale ticket, the price is not yet set by USJ. You’re paying what KKDay are estimating those VIP Ticket prices will be on release day as an opportunity for you to get first access. If demand or other factors push the price up higher than what KKDay estimated the price to be – the price you paid for your pre-sale VIP – your pre-sale purchase will be cancelled. If the price of the VIP Tour is actually cheaper than what you paid, you will be confirmed and refunded the difference.

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

What should I do if my VIP is cancelled?

While you may worry if your USJ VIP presale is cancelled, you can usually just quickly rebook that same tour. KKDay usually send you the Pre Sale VIP Tour outcome as soon as public VIPs for that date become available and VIP Tours are still newly released and plentiful. Once a pre-sale cancellation email is received most people successfully re-book their VIP Tickets on KKDay immediately.

Can I buy both VIPs and then refund the pre-sale before it is officially cancelled?

No, you will need to get formal confirmation of the pre-sale cancellation from KKDay before you purchase again or you may end up holding 2 confirmed VIP packages which are non-refundable.

When should I contact KKDay about the outcome of my pre-sale?

If you haven’t received an email or can’t see an update by logging into your account to check the status of your booking , then it’s time to contact KKDay chat support so that they can follow up your pre-sale VIP Tour outcome.

When will I get my KKDay ticket cancellation refund?

If your pre-sale tickets are cancelled by KKDay you will receive a refund. Even though KKDay state it may take “up to 14 days” to refund your payment, it’s rarely that long. KKDay do tend to refund promptly. (So promptly in fact, that a KKDay booking of mine was refunded back before the credit card processed the original sale!) That said, it isn’t always the case so that may mean you are out of pocket for a few days for two VIP packages if you have just repurchased the package from the general release on KKDay. Rest assured KKDay will refund any cancelled tickets. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact them.

Are USJ VIP Tours refundable?

No, USJ VIP Tours, pre-sale or otherwise are not refundable as per their terms and conditions of sale – unless they are cancelled by KKDay.

Do I need to buy Studio Passes if I have a VIP Tour?

Yes, you still need to buy Studio Passes for entry to Universal Studios Japan no matter what fast pass type ticket you buy, including Express Passes and VIP Tours. The easiest way is by using the same website you bought your VIP Passes on. You already have an account and know it will accept your number of tickets – and your credit card!

Universal Studios Japan Planning Facebook Group

Love all things Universal Studios Japan, or just have more questions? Join our 70k+ member Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group here!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own USJ planning experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which will not affect the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of February 2026 – always check with the source websites for the most recent prices.

The post Universal Studios Japan VIP Pre-Sale Tour Beginners Guide appeared first on Let's go Mum.

When you first start looking into Universal Studios Japan (USJ) tickets and passes it can be so confusing! Particularly when you can’t decide which ride fast pass is for you so that you can avoid standing in long queues all day.

There are two main queue skipping ride pass systems at USJ – Express Passes, and VIP Tours.

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Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

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What is the difference between USJ Express Passes and VIP Tours?

Express Passes are one-use only ride passes sold in groups of 4 to 8 rides which you use independently around the theme park according to their stated time slots. You access rides via a priority laneway which bypasses most of the queue, but you still wait a short period to board the ride. You can read more about USJ Express Passes in our beginner’s guide here.

VIP Tour Passes are actual full or partial guided tours which give you lots of extra benefits, plus priority access which takes you right to the front of the ride queue – bypassing even the Express Pass holders. USJ VIP Tours are a more luxurious experience. You can read more about USJ VIP Tours in our beginner’s guide here.

The Express Pass Vs. VIP Tour Comparison Graph

The following graph has taken a sample of the three main official seller websites for overseas purchasers – KKDay, Klook and Trip. The prices are all in Australian dollars, and were all taken on the same day – April 6th, 2026.

On this graph you can clearly see prices and features side by side so that you can more effectively compare their value. This will help you to make the right USJ pass choice for your own Universal Studios Japan visit – whether you be visiting on your own, or with the whole crew!

Do I need to buy a Studio Pass if I have an Express or VIP Pass?

Yes, you still need to buy a Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass for every person entering USJ, even if you have bought an Express or VIP Pass.

I hope this USJ pass comparison graph makes your decision a little easier. Don’t forget that if you aren’t a member already, you should consider joining my Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group. It’s a great place to chat and ask questions with like-minded travelers heading to USJ!

Join my Universal Studios Japan Planning Facebook Group

Love all things Universal Studios Japan, or just have more questions? Join our 70k+ member Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group here!

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own USJ planning experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which will not affect the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of February 2026 – always check with the source websites for the most recent prices.

The post Universal Studios Japan Express vs VIP Pass Comparison appeared first on Let's go Mum.

Firstly, if you haven’t read our Aussie family Disneyland Park feature, read it here.

Or our Australian family Disney California Adventure Park feature here.

Here are some handy tips for what, why and where to buy the right Disneyland tickets in Australia so that you can make the most of your time at Disneyland Resort…

One of the biggest questions on Aussie parent’s minds when planning a trip to Disneyland is where to buy cheap Disneyland tickets

Where can I buy Disneyland Tickets in Australia?

Our first stop for Disneyland tickets is Klook, an official Disneyland ticket seller.

Not only are Klook Disneyland tickets cheap, once purchased you always have them on you digitally on the Klook app. It’s a simple scan in process at the Disneyland entrance, skipping the queue for tickets.

Buy your Disneyland tickets here and use our discount code

Let’s Go Mum Readers new to KKDay get *10% off Disneyland tickets with our Disneyland promocode: LETSGOMUM

Buy your Disneyland tickets online here

KKDay Partner. *KKDay conditions apply.

In Australia (and many other countries around the world) you can also buy your Disneyland Resort theme park tickets direct from a travel agent in your country, but you will be paying a premium. A travel agent can also include tickets in a Disneyland holiday package.

Which Disneyland tickets should I choose?

Disneyland Resort Multi-day tickets are the best choice if you’ve never been to Disneyland before.

Tickets are available singly into either theme park, or Disneyland Resort Park Hopper tickets allows you to cross between the two theme parks during the same visit. It’s simply a matter of walking across from one park to the other. It’s best to allow at least three days to cover both parks. Five or seven days are even better! Multi-day tickets and Park Hopper tickets can be great way to enjoy the two California Disney Resort parks.

Buy your Disneyland tickets online here

Get your free Wise travel money card!

Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

Get your free Wise Card

What is Disneyland Lightning Lane?

Disneyland Lightning lane is the current name for the Disneyland ride queue fast lane. A Lightning Lane pass allows you to bypass the long ride queues to go straight to the front of the queue.

There are two versions of Lightning Lane passes to choose from.

The Lightning Lane Multi Pass, and the Lightning Lane Single Pass.

What is the difference between Disney Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?

Formally known as Disneyland Fast Pass and Disney Genie, there are now two new Disney Lightning Lane systems – here’s the simple explanation of how they work. Remember, you must have a valid Disneyland day ticket and park reservation first!

How does Lightning Lane Multi Pass work?

1. For several selected rides at Disneyland and California Adventure
2. For one use per ride
3. Book the next available ride window
4. Get free Disneyland photo benefits
5. Buy either in advance (can buy from Klook) or in the park, but limited availability

How does Lightning Lane Single Pass work?

1. For the following two rides only:
   1. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance in Disneyland
   2. Radiator Springs Racers in California Adventure
2. Both of the above 2 rides are not included in the Lightning Lane Multi Pass
3. Use one time only on one ride
4. Book the next available ride window
5. Buy once you are inside the theme park using the Disneyland app (if available)
6. You can buy both if you like, but only one per ride is allowed per day.

Is Disney Lightning Lane worth it?

Yes! One thing is for certain – your Disneyland time is precious – and valuable. You may have traveled half-way around the world to visit Disneyland. You need to make the most of your time whilst you are there – this is no time to try and save a few dollars! So, it makes good sense to spend a bit more on a Disney Lightning Lane and streamline your Disneyland ride and entertainment experiences.

Disney Lightning Lane may seem like an extra expense, but even if you are only visiting Disneyland Resort for a limited number of days, you should definitely consider upgrading your standard ticket to a Lightning Lane pass for a more efficient visit.

What is Disneyland Early Entry?

As a bonus, when you stay at an official Disneyland Resort Hotel you get access to the Disneyland 30-minute early entry to one of the two Disneyland theme parks every day of your hotel stay. This is a really good reason to stay at a Disneyland Hotel. That’s a 30 minute head-start on other Disneyland visitors, which is a great advantage when it comes to the most busy rides at Disneyland! You do still need to have a valid park ticket and have booked a park reservation.

Which days are early entry for Disneyland Park for hotel guests?

Disneyland Park are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Which days are early entry for California Adventure for hotel guests?

Disney California Adventure Park are Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Download the Disneyland Apps

In preparation for your days at Disney Resort, download the Disney Resort App before you go at the App Store and Google Play. The Play Disney Parks App. is another Disney family essential.

The Disneyland Resort App is essential to make the most of your Disney days. Us this app for entry, Lightning Lane, live navigational maps, to find out ride wait times, event information and even where Disney characters are going to appear! Your photo pass ride photos can also be loaded into your app as you make your way around the theme parks.

In the USA or Japan, you can also use the Disney Parks App to purchase park tickets. We decided we wanted an extra day at Disneyland before flying home to Australia, and bought tickets using the Disneyland App.

The Disneyland Resort Play App comes in very handy if you are waiting in line for a ride, as families can use it to play Disney games together! It keeps everyone entertained and is a lot of fun.

Can I connect my paper Disneyland ticket to the App?

Yes you can. It’s a good idea to link your Disneyland Resort ticket to the Disneyland App on your phone before your visit, however you can do this anytime, such as after receiving your ticket (if you bought tickets online) at the gate.

Ticketing and Lightning Lane work seamlessly within the Disneyland Resort App on your smart phone via a scannable barcode system.

How do I scan my Disneyland tickets into the app?

Watch my step-by-step video which shows you how to scan your Disneyland California tickets into the official Disneyland App .

Does holding a Disneyland ticket guarantee entry?

No. Like any other theme park, Disneyland has the potential to reach a maximum number of Guests in the park.

As there is still a park date reservation system being used in California Disney, it’s important you reserve the dates you wish to visit if this isn’t automatically included with your admission pass.

Do you still need to reserve your Disneyland date of visit in 2025?

Yes. This is managed by the Disneyland reservation system, which you can only make after you have bought a Disneyland ticket.

Therefore, at peak times such as USA holidays and weekends, it’s highly recommended that if your reservation isn’t included automatically with your Disneyland ticket, that you make your reservations early.

How do I reserve Disneyland tickets?

Watch my step-by-step instruction video which shows how to reserve your Disneyland California tickets.

Where to stay when visiting California Disneyland Resort

Disneyland is located around 45 minutes drive from LAX in the city of Anaheim, so it’s important to stay in Anaheim so that you aren’t wasting your precious Disney time commuting each day.

You can find a comprehensive listing of all hotels surrounding Disneyland in my guide here.

Whilst in Anaheim our family stayed in the Anaheim Marriot Suites, in Garden Grove. Located only minutes from the Disneyland Resort attractions, this elegant hotel is the perfect base for any Disneyland family holiday. Find out more about the Anaheim Marriot Suites hotel here.

Buy your Disneyland tickets here and use our discount code

Let’s Go Mum Readers new to KKDay get *10% off Disneyland tickets with our promocode: LETSGOMUM

Contact your travel agent to book your own magical Disneyland Resort Holiday. More information can be found at Disneyland.com.au

You may also be interested in Tokyo Disneyland and Walt Disney World, Orlando…

Book cheap tickets online to Tokyo Disneyland

Book tickets online to Walt Disney World in Orlando

You may also be interested in reading…

Read all about the three exciting California destinations, including Disneyland, we visited in one trip here!

The Let’s Go Mum family partnered with Visit California and their supporting partners for this trip.  As always, all opinions are our own.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

Share one of our images to Pinterest…

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A holiday to Tokyo Disneyland can be a lot of fun, but like any overseas holiday it can put a strain on finances! With some small cost-cutting measures you can still have a great Tokyo Disney holiday without stressing out over the credit card bills when you return home.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!

Cheap flights can go a long way towards saving money, which you can then perhaps use on the more fun things like souvenirs!

Another major trip cost can be accommodation, so it can certainly help the wallet by choosing a hotel with added perks – like Happy Entry (Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels only) and free shuttle bus transportation to the Disney Parks!

Here is a list of hotels with free shuttle buses to either the Tokyo Disney Parks or Tokyo Disney Resort Line monorail. Many of the official Disney hotels also offer a free shuttle bus to and from Maihama train station at Disneyland.

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Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

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Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels

This map is from the official Tokyo Disney Resort website, and shows all the locations of the official Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels. It’s the best location map to use, as it shows the accurate proximities to the two park entrances.

Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel

Free shuttle bus to both Tokyo Disney Resort Parks.
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
No transfer bus from Tokyo Celebration Hotel to/from Narita Airport.

Check Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel availability here

Tokyo Disney Toy Story Hotel

No shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Parks, walk to monorail station across the road to access both Parks (fee).
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
Airport transfer: Narita Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥2,300, Child: ¥1,150.

Check Tokyo Disney Toy Story Hotel availability here

Tokyo Disney Ambassador Hotel

Free shuttle bus to both Tokyo Disney Resort Parks – can also walk to Disney Sea (10 minutes) or walk through the Ikspiari Shopping Mall and on to Tokyo Disneyland (20 minutes) (or to the monorail station at Resort Gateway (10 minutes) to access both parks).
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price pop Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
Airport transfer: Narita Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥2,300, Child: ¥1,150.

Check Tokyo Disney Ambassador Hotel availability here

Tokyo Disneyland Hotel

No shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Parks, walk to monorail station at hotel rear to access DisneySea (fee).
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
Airport transfer: Narita Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥2,300, Child: ¥1,150.

Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta

No shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Parks, walk to monorail station past entrance gates to access Disneyland (fee).
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
Airport transfer: Narita Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥2,300, Child: ¥1,150.

Check Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta availability here

Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel

No shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Parks, walk to monorail station across the road to access both Parks (fee).
Airport transfer: Haneda Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥1,300, Child: ¥650.
Airport transfer: Narita Airport transfer Limo Bus – Price Adult: ¥2,300, Child: ¥1,150.

Check Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel availability here

Tokyo Disney Official Hotels

These Tokyo Disney Resort Official Hotels (so these are other hotel brands, not Disney Hotels – a common misunderstanding!) all offer a free shuttle bus to the Disney Resort Line monorail Bayside Station and the main bus stop at Maihama Station near Disneyland.

Tokyo Disney Partner Hotels

Tokyo Disney Good Neighbor Hotels

Tokyo mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Tokyo Disney Resort and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Other nearby Tokyo Disney hotels with a shuttle

Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay

Free Shuttle bus service to both Tokyo Disney parks and the train station.

Check Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay availability here

Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay

Complimentary shuttle bus service to both Tokyo Disney Resort Parks and the Shin Urayasu Railway Station.

Check Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay availability here

Henn na Maihama Hotel

Complimentary shuttle to Disney Parks.

Check Henn na Maihama Hotel availability here

Hotel Mystays Maihama

Free shuttles to Tokyo Disney Resort and Maihama Station.

Check Hotel Mystays Maihama availability here

Hiyori Hotel Maihama

Shuttle bus to Maihama JR train station near Tokyo Disneyland.

Check Hiyori Hotel Maihama availability here

Comfort Suites Tokyo Bay

Shuttle bus to both Tokyo Disney Parks but drop off points aren’t as close.

Check Comfort Suites Tokyo Bay availability here

The Royal Park Hotel Maihama

Shuttles to Disneyland and Disney Sea.

Spa & Hotel Maihama Eurasia

Shuttle to Disneyland/Maihama or possible shuttle/walk to Disney Sea.

Check Spa & Hotel Maihama Eurasia availability here

Hotel Honorable Mention

Hotel Dream Gate (at Maihama Station)

Walking distance from the Maihama Station to Tokyo Disneyland is approximately 10 minutes.

Check availability of Dream Gate Hotel here

Tokyo Disneyland Facebook Group

Love all things Tokyo Disneyland, or just have more questions? Join our 100k+ member Tokyo Disney Facebook Group here!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below because I love answering questions! I’d also love to hear about your own Disney experiences in the comments below!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support!
Prices are correct as at July 2024 – always check with the hotel source for up to date prices.

The post Hotels near Tokyo Disneyland with a free shuttle bus appeared first on Let's go Mum.

What are Universal Studios Japan VIP Tours or Passes?

A Universal Studios Japan (USJ) VIP Pass is the next step up from the USJ Express Pass in both expense and features. It gives you the opportunity to have a very special experience at Universal Studios Japan!

What do you get on a USJ VIP Tour?

Led by a dedicated USJ Tour guide, you, your small group or family get to enjoy special VIP privileges such as a separate VIP entry and lounge, access to restricted areas, special character meet-and-greets plus being led straight to the front of popular rides!

How does a VIP Tour pass save me time?

A USJ planning group member recently reviewed their 5 hour VIP Tour and here is what they had to say:

The Universal Studios Japan VIP Entrance

As a VIP Tour member you can enter Universal Studios Japan via the special VIP entrance and Reception. Once you have cleared the security queue you can skip the entrance gates queue by using the red carpet VIP entrance!

The VIP Lounge

VIP Tour Members also have access to the large and comfortable VIP Lounge. Here you can meet your tour guide, leave your shopping bags, get free ponchos, enjoy cool drinks and even take bottles of water from the lounge with you on your VIP Tour! If there is a member of your VIP Tour who just needs a break, they can use the VIP Lounge to wait in in comfort. It’s a great base for your day at Universal Studios Japan.

The Luminant VIP Restaurant

Included in the 5 and 8 hour VIP tours a meal is included at the special Luminant VIP Private Lounge and Dining restaurant. This exclusive VIP restaurant is only for VIP Tour members and overlooks the beautiful Universal Studios Japan Lake.

The varied fare includes a range of delicious food and even cute, themed selections! Lunch is a buffet selection and Dinner includes special à la carte selections.

What happens on a USJ VIP Tour?

On all VIP Tours you are led around USJ by your group’s very own Tour Guide! When you are with your tour guide you will completely skip the ride queues. You will get to see behind-the-scenes short cut passageways all the way to the front of the ride queue. You won’t have to wait in the Priority Queue like the Express Pass holders as you will be taken straight to the head of the queue!
You may also take part in games and special character meet-and-greets and activities. Your Tour Guide is there to help make your experience a wonderful one! They will tell you interesting facts as you walk around the theme park and even take family photos for you during the tour!

When can I buy my USJ VIP tickets?

USJ VIP ticket releases usually happen the same time as the general ticket release, which is 2 months prior at midnight Japan time – give or take a few days. The best way to work out your day of VIP Tour release is start watching the date releases on the selling websites and count them down.
Be warned that once they become available they can be snapped up very quickly!

What time do Universal Japan Tickets become available?

Currently, USJ tickets release one day at a time, two months prior to the ticket date (one day before) at midnight Japan time. Any updates to this process are always announced promptly in our Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group here.

Get your free Wise travel money card!

Take advantage of our free Wise travel money card offer to save the AUD$10 card fee here.

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Do USJ VIP Tour Guides only speak Japanese?

No, you can get USJ VIP Tour Guides who speak not only Japanese, but English and Chinese too! It’s possible to book all 3, 5 and 8 hour VIP Tours as English speaking Tours.

How do I book a USJ English Speaking VIP Tour?

Buy your Universal Studios Japan VIP tickets through trusted official sellers. KKDay, Klook and Trip are the best international websites for overseas purchasers to successfully book English Speaking VIP Tour Passes. KKDay offer the largest range of USJ VIP Tours.

Which VIP Tour booking company is the best?

• KKDay has a good personal process with excellent communication to secure English speaking VIP Tours of all lengths for a competitive price. They also sometimes offer a pre-booking option.
• Trip often offers some of the cheapest 3 hour VIP tours but the most expensive 5 and 8 hour tours. Subsequently these tours can often have more availability.
• Klook usually only offer 3 hour USJ VIP Tours but sometimes have others available.

KKDay offer English Speaking USJ VIP Tours

KKDay VIP Tours often look like they default offer only Japanese language tour guides, however there are English language speaking tour guides available. Here’s how to request an English speaking tour guide on KKDay.

The KKDay Traveler Info Form

To get an English speaking VIP Tour guide on KKDay, the process is that you fill in a Traveler Info Form request and specify that you would like an English speaking Tour Guide on it.

Use the KKDay website instead of the app

The Traveler Info Form button is visible on your KKDay VIP Tour purchase order form during the booking process when using the KKDay website (and not the app).

I can’t find the KK Day form in the VIP Tours application

Even though the KK Day application asks if you have filled in the pre information form when applying, don’t worry if you can’t see it – you will be given the opportunity to fill it out with your desired VIP Tour Guide language after you have paid and lodged your information. KKDay booking service will contact you with the form link, plus support chat can also provide you with the form link.

What should I expect to happen after I have paid for my KKDay VIP Tour?

After you pay you will receive a confirmation of payment only. If you haven’t filled out a pre-information form, KKDay booking staff with contact you to arrange for the form to be filled in. You don’t have your VIP Tour yet!

After KKDay have received your payment and language preference, they will then personally contact USJ with your English language guide request. They will attempt to arrange for an English language guide for your VIP Tour.

They will then contact you to officially to either confirm, discuss (or cancel) your VIP Tour. When your VIP Tour is confirmed, you will receive an email of VIP Tour confirmation. You will also receive your VIP Tour voucher/s.

How long does it take to confirm a USJ VIP Tour after I have paid?

The official confirmation waiting period is 3 working days. It can be almost immediate, but usually it is a (working) day or two.

What happens if an English Tour Guide isn’t available?

Should an English tour guide not be available, you can still choose to go along on a Japanese speaking VIP Tour. USJ Japanese speaking guides can usually speak limited English. So even if you don’t speak Japanese, you can get by with their limited English and their translation tool to communicate with you. You will miss understanding a lot of chatter during the tour, however.

What happens if my USJ VIP Tour is cancelled?

If for any reason your VIP Tour application is cancelled by the seller, your money will be refunded, usually very promptly.

What is the difference between Private and Group VIP Tours?

There are two main types of Universal Studios Japan VIP tours – group and private

Group USJ VIP Tours – currently these are only all of the 3hr VIP Tours- where groups of 10 mixed people or families (unknown to each other) book and do the tour together. These tours are priced per person.

Private USJ VIP tours – these are the 5 hour and 8 hour VIP Tours. These are only private tours. These tours are priced from a minimum collective price of four VIP Tour participants (you must pay the price of four, even if you are only one, two or three people). You will receive one voucher for four people.

Are less than four people allowed on a private VIP Tour?

Yes, you can be any number under four people but must still pay the minimum price of four people.

Can I add extra people on to our private tour?

Yes, you can pay by person to add extra people to your tour for the same per person price.
If you buy for more than four people you will get extra vouchers for each individual person. So, 1 voucher covers the first 4 people and then you get 1 for 1 extra person, 2 for 2 extra people and so on. You can book up to a total of 10 people on USJ VIP Tours.

The most expensive USJ Private VIP Tour can be found on KKDay here.

How much does a USJ VIP Tour cost?

Universal Studios Japan VIP Tours pricing varies upon the type of VIP and also the date booked.VIP Passes are priced higher than Express Passes but are regarded as much better value. For both Express Passes and VIP Tours you will also need to purchase Studio Pass entrance tickets to USJ.

As a rough guide, these are the cheapest VIP Tour prices for February 2026 in AUD:

3hr VIP Tours $352.69 per person (Trip) $389.91 (KKDay – use my promocode for further discount LETSGOMUM at checkout with link from this page) $389.75 (Klook)
5hr VIP Tours $2,423 for 4 people (KKDay – use my promocode for further discount LETSGOMUM at checkout with link from this page) Extra person: $606 per person. (tour includes 1 meal)
8hr VIP Tours $3,400 for 4 people (KKDay – use my promocode for further discount LETSGOMUM at checkout with link from this page) Extra person: $850 per person (tour includes 2 meals)

The 3 hour USJ Super Nintendo VIP Tour

What does a 3 hour USJ VIP Tour include?

The 3 hour USJ VIP Tour is a public tour, and so run differently to the 5 and 8 hour VIP Tours.

You can enter Universal Studios Japan from opening time or later.
You can use the VIP Entrance to skip the entrance queue. You will receive four ride Express Passes for use before or after the tour. These Express Passes are good for one ride use. They give you access to the Priority Lane of each USJ ride which allows you to skip most of the standard queue.
You will get access to the USJ VIP Lounge 20 minutes prior to your VIP Tour where you can enjoy complimentary drinks. There you will meet your Tour Guide.
You will receive a free ride poncho.
You will receive a 10% off discount voucher to dine at park restaurants – including Kinopio’s Café in Super Nintendo World.
During your tour you will do four rides once each with your tour guide. The tour guide will take you to the head of each ride queue, bypassing Express Pass holders. You will also get some free time from the tour to look around and shop.
With some higher-priced Kinopio Priority Access 3hr VIPs you will be taken to the ordering counter of Kinopio’s Cafe in Super Nintendo World at the end of your tour.

3 hour USJ VIP Tour FAQs

Do you get unlimited rides on a 3hr VIP Tour?

No, you only get unlimited rides on a 5 or 8 hour Universal Studios Japan VIP Tour.

How many rides do you get on a 3hr Tour?

There are 4 rides on the tour plus another 4 rides accessible via the Priority Lane before or after the tour. So 8 expedited rides are included.

Why does Klook 3 hour VIP only offer 3 Express Passes?

Klook may state they offer 3 Express ride passes instead of 4 Express ride passes when you book, however most group members who booked through Klook reported that you do receive 4 Express Passes on the day. Klook will tell you 3, so there doesn’t seem to be a firm answer on this yet.

What rides are on a USJ 3hr VIP Tour?

A Super Nintendo World 3 hour VIP Tour currently includes one ride on each of the following rides:

• Jaws
• Donkey Kong Mine Cart Madness
• Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge
• Yoshi’s Adventure

What rides can I use my extra Express Passes on?

You can use your 4 additional Express Ride passes on almost any of the rides located outside of Super Nintendo World (because you will do all three Super Nintendo rides during the 3hr Tour Guide led tour). The rides you can choose from include, but are not necessarily limited to:

• Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast (possibly)
• Detective Conan 4-D Live Show: Jewel Under the Starry Sky (possibly)
• Space Fantasy – The Ride
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Hollywood Dream – The Ride
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• The Flying Dinosaur
• JAWS
• Jurassic Park – The Ride

The above list is correct as of February 2026 – it can slightly change seasonally

Can I use my 3hr VIP Tour Ride Express Passes before the tour starts?

Yes you can! You can pick up your 4 Express Passes as soon as you arrive and use them to access rides via the Priority Lane before or after your VIP Tour.

Do I get VIP access to Kinopio’s Cafe on my 3hr VIP Tour?

If you buy the higher-priced Kinopio Priority Access 3hr VIP Tour your VIP Tour will conclude inside Super Nintendo World and your tour guide will escort you to the service counter of the famous mushroom shaped Kinopio’s Cafe at the end of your VIP Tour.

Do I get unlimited entry into Super Nintendo World with a 3hr VIP?

No, you don’t get unlimited entry into Super Nintendo World. Once you leave Super Nintendo World you’ll need another SNW timed entry to get back in. You only get unlimited entry to Super Nintendo World with a 5 or 8hr VIP Tour.

You can see a Super Nintendo World 3 hour VIP Tour on KKDay here.

The 5 & 8 hour USJ VIP Private Tours

What does a USJ VIP Private Tour include?

You can enter Universal Studios Japan from opening time or later using the VIP Entrance after security to skip the entrance queue.
You will have access to the USJ VIP Lounge all day which includes complimentary drinks.
You will have your lunch and/or dinner in the exclusive USJ VIP Restaurant.
You will receive a VIP wristband to wear which gives you unlimited access to USJ rides and many shows all day.
You will receive a free ride poncho.
Note: There may be some special paid event shows which may not be included in your VIP tour and so should be pre-discussed at the booking stage.

How do we get to do what we want on the VIP Tour?

The VIP lounge is where you will meet your Tour Guide at your booked tour time. Together you will sit down to plan your perfect VIP tour itinerary! You will discuss what you would like to do during your tour so that your tour will be fully customised and personally tailored to suit your group’s wishes.
If you haven’t already picked them up, you will each be given a VIP ride wrist band and poncho.
If not already arranged during booking, you can also discuss when you would like your lunch or dinner Your meals times will usually be before/after your allotted time for your tour itinerary. Your tour guide won’t be with you for meal times.
This sit down planning session with your Tour Guide will be included in your VIP Tour time.

What can I choose to do during my Private VIP Tour?

You can choose to do almost any attraction and experiences within the theme park. Your private VIP tour will be designed around the rides/experiences/character meets your group would like to do!
Some examples might include activities like VIP seats at shows like Waterworld, private character meet and greets or perhaps a Harry Potter Olivander’s wand show where one of your tour members will have a wand carefully selected for them!

Will my VIP lunch or dinner be included in my tour time?

No, your meal time will usually be outside of your VIP Tour time. 5 hour private VIP tours include lunch or dinner. 8 hour private VIP tours include both lunch and dinner.

What happens on the 5hr and 8hr VIP Tours?

During your private VIP Tour your tour guide will take you right to the front of each ride queue you would like to ride so that you can board almost immediately. If you wish to, you can even repeat favourite rides multiple times!

Perhaps you want to spend time some time shopping – your Tour Guide can look after your shopping for you while you look around the store and then help you to skip the store’s checkout queue when you’re ready to buy your merchandise.

Your Tour Guide will follow your pre-planned itinerary throughout your VIP Tour to help you to do what you love and make your day the best USJ day ever!

5 & 8 hour USJ VIP Tour FAQs

Do you get unlimited rides on a 5hr or 8hr VIP Tour?

Yes, you do get unlimited rides on a 5 hour and 8 hour Universal Studios Japan VIP Tour.

Can I use my Unlimited Ride wrist band before the tour starts?

Yes you can! You can pick up your unlimited ride wristband as soon as you arrive at USJ. You can use it before or after your VIP Tour to access the Priority Lane of each USJ ride, allowing you to skip most of the standard queue. It can take approximately 5-10 minutes to board a ride using the Priority Queue. The Donkey Kong Minekart can sometimes take longer. You can use the ride Priority Lanes as many times as you like with your VIP wristband.

Is my meal included in the VIP Tour price?

Yes, any stated VIP Tour meal at the VIP restaurant is included in the price of your VIP Tour.

Do I get unlimited access to Super Nintendo World with a 5hr or 8hr VIP Tour?

Yes, your 5 or 8hr VIP bracelet will give you unlimited entry into Super Nintendo World.

Do I get VIP access to Kinopio’s Cafe on my 5hr or 8hr VIP Tour?

Yes, you can ask your tour guide for a Kinopio’s visit to be factored into your VIP tour when you sit down to plan your tour together. Your tour guide can escort you right to the service counter of Kinopio’s Cafe.

One group member’s 8 hour experience

Here is detailed group member recap of their 8 hour VIP Tour

You can see the most expensive USJ VIP Tour on KKDay here.

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Universal Studios Japan VIP Pass General FAQs

Do I need to buy a Studio Pass if I have a VIP Pass?

Yes, you still need to buy a Studio Pass entrance ticket even if you have bought a VIP Pass.

Should I use the VIP sellers app or website?

Whilst apps are useful during your visit, any VIP Tour or ticket purchase should be done on the sellers website (on either mobile phone or computer). The website version includes more details of what you are buying and is proven to be much faster to secure your passes!.

What order should I buy my USJ tickets in?

As you may have difficulty buying the exact USJ VIP Pass date you want, it is wise to wait to buy your park entrance Studio Passes. Once you have confirmed your VIP Tour, then it’s time to buy your Studio Pass tickets from the same seller.

Are USJ VIP Tours refundable?

No, USJ VIP Tours are not refundable.

Where should I buy my Studio Passes?

The easiest way is by using the same website you bought your VIP Passes on. You already have an account and know it will accept your number of tickets – and your credit card!

Can I arrive at USJ before my VIP Tour?

Yes, you can access USJ earlier than your VIP Tour providing it is during normal opening hours. You will be given and able to use the bonus passes/wrist band according to your VIP Tour Package.

Are children allowed on a VIP tour?

Yes, children are welcome on USJ VIP Tours. Children cost the same price as adults. Children under the age of four are free. As per usual, children can only ride according to individual ride height or age ride restrictions. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult on a USJ VIP Tour. Although you don’t pay for an under-4yrs child, it’s a good idea to let them know you will have an extra family member along with you.

Can parent ride swap be used on VIP Tours?

To use the parent ride child swap facility during a 3 hour VIP Tour, the ride vouchers for the second parent’s ride may be arranged to be given for use after the tour (so as not to hold up the 3 hour VIP group tour). A private VIP Tour will be necessary to use parent swap for both parent’s rides during the tour.

Do you get unlimited rides on a VIP Tour?

You do get an unlimited ride pass for use all day after or before your 5 or 8 hour USJ VIP Tour, however you don’t get an unlimited ride pass with 3 hour VIP Tours – you get one ride each on four rides during the tour and are given four individual one-use Express Passes for outside the tour on the same day.

Does a VIP Pass give you early entry to Universal Studios Japan?

No, a USJ VIP Pass does not give you early entry to Universal Studios Japan. You do get to enter the theme park through a special VIP entry instead of having to wait in the general queue after the first security queue.

What do I do if I’m running late for my VIP Tour?

If you are running late for your USJ VIP Tour, group members have had success with asking staff to take them to the front of the security queue to make their VIP Tour on time.

Can I go on a Japanese speaking USJ VIP Tour?

Yes, if you only speak English you can still join a Japanese speaking VIP Tour. Be aware that even if some tour guides speak basic English there is constant dialogue in Japanese, so you will miss a lot. Please note that you are not allowed to book a VIP Tour on the Japanese USJ website unless you are a Japanese resident.

Are there Chinese speaking USJ VIP Tours?

Yes you can often find Chinese Tour Guide VIP Tours for sale on Klook here.

Should I tip my VIP Tour Guide?

No, Universal Studios Japan Staff are not allowed to receive tips or gifts, however there is a way to thank them – with “Fan Mail”.

Staff Fan Mail

You can thank a USJ employee by writing a thank you note to them praising their service. This can be on a postcard or note which you then take to the Customer Service office inside the theme park, or the one located between Security and the main entrance. They will give you a short form to fill out so you can put the staff members name and date of your VIP Tour (or wherever the general USJ staff member helped you). They will attach the two documents together for you to “post” in a box. Fan Mail also helps the Staff member be recognised as a good employee by USJ!

Universal Studios Japan Planning Facebook Group

Love all things Universal Studios Japan, or just have more questions? Join our 70k+ member Universal Studios Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Group here!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own USJ planning experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which will not affect the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of February 2026 – always check with the source websites for the most recent prices.

The post Universal Studios Japan VIP Pass & Tour Beginners Guide appeared first on Let's go Mum.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which never affects the price you pay. Thank you for your support!

If you are looking for our Shinkansen luggage guide you’ll find it here.

Travelling on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka is an easy, fast way to move between the two major cities. Also known as the Japan bullet train, this rapid, smooth mode of travel can seem confusing to book at first. Especially from overseas! But don’t worry – it’s really easy once you know how.

How do I book a Shinkansen from Australia?

Booking from Australia (this works for most international locations), I decided to trial both popular methods for our trip to Tokyo via Nagoya. I wanted to settle which Shinkansen booking method was easiest for tourists. Here’s how it went…

How do I book a seat on a Japan Shinkansen?

There are two popular methods for tourists to book a Japan Shinkansen seat.

• Online using an official partner booking service like Klook or KKDay. For this comparison we used Klook.
• Online using the official JR Smartex website

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Which Shinkansen booking service is the best?

Out of the two major ways to book Shinkansen, my recommended choice for the easiest way to book a Shinkansen is using the Klook website. My second choice would be using the JR Smartex site. The end results are the same, but the processes are very different!

Who or what is Klook?

Klook is a huge, trusted booking company and an official third-party Shinkansen ticket seller. Klook is popular for booking attractions, transportation and accommodation. I have personally used Klook on many of our overseas trips and I now partner with them.

Why is Klook the best way to book a Shinkansen online?

Booking with Klook is much more user-friendly for tourists. The Klook website is easy to use and simple to understand. Users simply choose the date, then the time and type of Shinkansen, plus select tick boxes for your preferences, such as an Oversized Luggage Seat.

Klook will find your Japan bullet train seats for you and confirm soon after you book with your seat numbers.

My oversized luggage seats were confirmed in less than an hour. Whilst there can be a small difference in price, I found it outweighed the inconvenience of booking with the Japanese Shinkansen website.

Best of all, at the Shinkansen Station both tickets work the same.

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What is the official Shinkansen booking website?

The official JR Shinkansen English booking website is called Smartex.

Why was Smartex my second best choice to book a Shinkansen?

The Smartex website took me a couple of nights of playing around to learn the steps to book. It first requires setting up a free membership account which holds your payment method separately. Then you need to login to the website to book. It’s only after you have logged in that you can search and book your Shinkansen tickets – and it logs out if you take too long – so you can find yourself back at the start several times if you take too long.

This more complex booking system was difficult to navigate, and I found myself fruitlessly searching for almost an hour until I stumbled across an obscure filter to find available oversized luggage seats.

After I booked, all was fine. The booking was immediate and confirmed via email. The QR codes aren’t able to be saved to your iphone Wallet like Klook’s are, but there is a separate Smartex App you can install.

Ultimately, learning how to book using Smartex took me a lot longer than Klook.

Shinkansen booking sites comparison

Klook Shinkansen booking advantages

• Five minutes to book, an hour to have seats confirmed.
• Tickets are accessible both in the Klook app and can be saved in your iphone wallet.
• Klook tickets work the same as Smartex tickets – scan a QR Code at the gate
• You can pay in your own currency (so no exchange fees)
• You get important Klook information messages and reminders on your phone if you have the app downloaded

Klook Shinkansen booking disadvantages

• Last minute bookings and changes not possible
• Changes cost a small fee and need to be re-confirmed
• Tickets can be more expensive

JR Smartex website Shinkansen booking advantages

• Bookings are immediate
• Booking changes are free, and are able to be made up to 4 minutes prior to departure time
• Tickets can be cheaper

JR Smartex website Shinkansen booking disadvantages

• A membership and then login was required before being able to even view the Shinkansen times and dates to book
• The website itself was difficult to understand and required several separate steps to book

Do both Klook and Smartex tickets work the same at the station?

Yes, both are tap-through QR Codes. You’ll need to also tap your Suica card or IC card first if you are transferring from another local train within the station (just like you would need to normally tap out of the station). There are staff at the Shinkansen gates to assist if you have any issues.

Shinkansen FAQs

Should I reserve a Shinkansen seat?

Yes, reserving Shinkansen seats is a good decision. If you reserve your Shinkansen seats, you’ll have pre booked seats together with your party. You will be able to relax when boarding, knowing that you have seats waiting for you, rather than having to board quickly to try and get seats together. If the Shinkansen is a busy one you may not even get a seat at all, as Shinkansens can be over-booked in unreserved cabins. (We’ve had this happen!)

In addition, if you wish to take your larger suitcases on board with you, you must reserve Oversized Luggage seats or pay a fine of 1,000JPY and have to sit with your bag in front of your knees.

Reserved Shinkansen seat disadvantages

• More expensive than unreserved

Reserved Shinkansen seat advantages

• You don’t need to rush onboard quickly to get seats together with your traveling party
• If the Shinkansen is overbooked, you know you have a seat
• You can book your large luggage to travel with you

Are Japanese bullet trains all the same?

No, there are three main types of Japan Shinkansen bullet trains.

• Nozomi – the Nozomi is the fastest Shinkansen with the least station stops. The Nozomi is the most frequent Shinkansen by far with 12 arriving per hour and is the best choice for the Shinkansen to Nagoya (Legoland Japan & Ghibli Park) or the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto and Shin Osaka.
• Hikari – the Hikari is the less frequent, second fastest Shinkansen with a few extra station stops. It is about an hour slower than the Nozomi.
• Kodama – the slowest Shinkansen that stops at all stations – good for rural city visits.

Are there different classes of travel on the Shinkansen?

Yes, there are usually a couple of unreserved seating carriages, and the rest are reserved seating split into two classes – Ordinary (Second Class) and Green (First Class) carriages.

The Green carriages are the more expensive service. Their seats are bigger with a footrest. The seat layout is two seats together either side of the aisle. There is a passenger service via attendant and you can order limited food and drink onboard via mobile order menu. There are some amenities such as receiving a washcloth upon boarding.

The Ordinary carriages are the standard service and have three seats on one side and two seats on the other per row. The Ordinary cars are still a very comfortable, clean and roomy Shinkansen service.

Can I use my JR Pass on a Shinkansen?

You can use your JR Pass for the Hikari and Kodama trains, but you need to buy an extra Mizuho ticket to ride the Nozomi train. This additional ticket is 4,960jpy and is available from a machine at the stations and covers all classes of travel.

When should I arrive at the Shinkansen station?

Tokyo, Shin Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya and other Shinkansen Stations are all large and busy, but they are well run and signposted. At the station, arrive about an hour before your train arrives so that you have plenty of time and are not rushed. Allow enough time to locate the Shinkansen area, scan in through the gates, find your platform, buy some snacks and locate where your reserved carriage doors will open for you to board.

How do I find the Shinkansens at the station?

When you arrive at your departure station, you’ll see the Shinkansens signs. Follow the Shinkansen signs to the special Shinkansen scan-in gates.

How do I scan my Shinkansen ticket?

At the main Shinkansen area gates, there are plenty of staff to help you at the scan in gates if you have any problems.

First tap your Suica card or train ticket if you arrived on a local train to “tap off” that train like you would if you were exiting the station.

Next you tap your booked Shinkansen QR Code which you received from Klook (remember you’ve probably saved it in your iphone wallet) or Smartex.

As you tap your Shinkansen QR Code a paper Seat Information slip will pop up. Take this out of the gate to take with you. This is to show any staff who may ask you for it on board the train (nobody did).

After you have successfully tapped in and retrieved you Seat Information slip, make your way to the information board inside the Shinkansen scan-in gates to check which platform to go to using your Shinkansen train number information provided with your ticket voucher, then proceed to your platform.

How do I know which Shinkansen to take at the Station?

Each Shinkansen bullet train has a service name and number which you will find on your booking and ticket, along with your carriage and seat number. This number is how you identify your train on the train station information board and train platform. “Nozomi 247” for example.

On the train platform your Shinkansen’s name and number will be on the big platform signs which list each pending Shinkansen’s time of arrival, and it will also be on a sign in front of and also on the side of the train itself.

How do I know where to board the Shinkansen?

Your carriage and seat number will be in your booking information. If you look you will see carriage number signs on the ground and on the gate – it will be on the train too when it arrives. Walk to your carriage boarding point ready to queue there around ten minutes before it’s time for your train to arrive. It may take you a couple of minutes to walk to the correct spot, so you may like to check where it is in advance, like an airport gate! Don’t worry, if you get mixed up – you can always walk to the correct carriage onboard. Shinkansen trains have carriages that are inter-connecting with automatic doors. There are staff circulating through the train too, who can help you if needed.

Will I have enough time to get onboard?

Yes, don’t worry! Although the Shinkansen’s are intimidatingly fast, you do get enough time to get on and get seated! You get about five minutes to board after the Shinkansen stops. There’s around ten minutes between each Shinkansen arriving at the station platforms. People generally queue to board their train right after the departure of the train before theirs. Don’t worry – if you’ve reserved your seats no one will take your seat or luggage space. You’ve paid for your spot!

Can I eat on the Shinkansen?

Yes, you can eat and drink on the Shinkansen. On the Shinkansen station platform, you’ll find vending machines plus small food stores where you can buy snacks, drinks and traditional Bento Boxes to take on board with you to eat.

Eki-ben (Bento Boxes for the train) are in disposable cardboard boxes and have cold rice and meat or vegetarian dishes. Bento Boxes are a fun part of the Shinkansen experience!

The Green car food service is the only onboard Nozomi/Hikari Shinkansen food available, and it is exclusive to 1st Class passengers. The online mobile order food service offers limited food and drinks available from a menu via a QR Code, such as coffee, ice cream and other snacks.

At each Shinkansen sear there are fold down tables to rest your laptop or to eat. You can even recline your seat – it’s like being on a plane but with more room!

Can I charge my phone on the Shinkansen?

Yes, there are power sockets for plugs onboard at every seat. Remember to take your actual Japan power plug and not just the USB or C charge cord.

Is there free wifi on the Shinkansen?

Yes there is free Wi-Fi on the Shinkansen in all carriages. Sign up is with an email. It’s easy to connect and works well.

Are there toilets on the Shinkansen?

Yes, there are toilets on the Shinkansen at the end of the carriages.

How long does the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin Osaka take?

It takes two and a half hours on the Shinkansen Nozomi service (fastest service) to get from Shin Osaka to Tokyo Station.

How long does it take to get from Osaka to Nagoya on the Shinkansen?

It takes 50 minutes to get to Nagoya from Shin Osaka on the Shinkansen. Nagoya is home to the Legoland Hotel and LEGOLAND Japan and the Ghibli Park theme park.

Which side of the Shinkansen can I see Mount Fuji from?

If you sit on the left side of the Shinkansen heading to Tokyo from Kyoto/Osaka, or the right side of the Shinkansen heading to Kyoto/Osaka you will see Mount Fuji! You can even pay extra to ensure you get one of those seats on Klook. You will need the weather to cooperate of course – Mount Fuji is notorious for hiding behind clouds!

How do I get from the Shinkansen at Tokyo Station to Tokyo Disney Resort?

Watch our video to see how to get to the Tokyo Disney railway station line at Tokyo Station and then all the way to Tokyo Disney Resort, including the Monorail.

Can I take luggage onboard the Shinkansen?

Yes, but you must reserve what are called oversize luggage seats. These are usually the back row of each reserved seat carriage. There is room for your suitcases to go behind your seat. If you don’t book these seats and only have normal reserved seats there is room for your suitase to go in front of your knees, however you may need to pay a fine. You can learn all about taking your luggage onto the Shinkansen including size dimensions in my Shinkansen Luggage Guide here.

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Join my Japan Planning Facebook Groups!

Love Japan, or just have more questions? Join my Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Groups above!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own Japan experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which never affects the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of January 2026 – always check with the source website for the most recent prices.

The post The Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka beginner’s guide appeared first on Let's go Mum.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which never affects the price you pay. Thank you for your support!

If you are looking for our Beginner’s guide to booking a Shinkansen you’ll find it here.

Can I take my luggage on the Shinkansen?

Yes you can take your luggage with you on the Shinkansen. People traveling with luggage over a certain size must book special seats with room for luggage. These are called Oversize Baggage seats. These are usually the back row of each reserved seat carriage.

Where does my luggage go in the Shinkansen?

There are overhead shelves for carry on luggage size. You should take extra care when lifting cases up and down. They are not allowed to be used for large suitcases.

Are there luggage racks in the Shinkansen?

There are some trial luggage rooms in some Shinkansens currently, however for most Shinkansens at the moment, if you have larger suitcases you’ll need to book one of the few Oversized Luggage seats which are available in each reserved carriage.

What are Oversized Baggage Shinkansen seats?

If you have reserved an Oversized Baggage seat, these are usually right at the back of the train carriage. Your suitcase goes in the reserved space directly behind the seat (which is available only for the last seats).

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How do I reserve Oversized Baggage seats?

You can reserve Oversized Baggage seats easily by ticking a box when booking Shinkansen reserved seats on Klook here.

Can I still take my suitcases onboard if the large luggage seats aren’t available?

Yes, you can still take your suitcases into reserved seating carriages if you haven’t reserved an oversized luggage seat. You’ll need to keep your luggage clear of the aisle and fit your suitcase in front of your knees. You may be fined as you are supposed to reserve the correct kind of seat. The fine or fee for carrying oversized luggage on a standard reserved seat is 1,000JPY.

Can I take large bags into the Shinkansen unreserved cars?

No, oversized baggage is not allowed in unreserved Shinkansen bullet train cars.

What size is oversized luggage on a Shinkansen?

Baggage with total dimensions of between 160cm and 250 cm is regarded as Oversized Luggage and requires a reservation.

How do I work out if my bag is classed as oversize luggage for the Shinkansen?

Add the height, width and length of your suitcase. If it is between 161cm and 250cm, then it is regarded as oversized and requires you to reserve a special oversized luggage seat.

What is the Shinkansen luggage limit?

Baggage with total dimensions of over 250cm is regarded as over the acceptable size limit and cannot be taken on the Shinkansen. You should arrange to take or send this using an alternative transport service.

Can I take my pram, bicycle or wheelchair on the Shinkansen?

Prams, strollers, wheelchairs and mobility devices and bicycles are all excluded from the luggage dimensions size limit, however if you wish to store them in the oversized baggage area you will need to reserve the oversized baggage seats.

Can I send my luggage same day from Kyoto to Tokyo?

Yes, there is a company you can use to send your luggage same day from Kyoto to Tokyo or Tokyo to Kyoto. Luggage Express can receive your luggage in the morning and have it there by the evening. You can find their website here.

More luggage transfer options in and around Tokyo and Osaka can be found here.

Japan mobile phone internet data eSims

Buy an eSim so that you have data from the moment you land in Japan. Airalo eSIM is proven to work reliably in Universal Studios Japan and allows you to access the internet in Japan.

Buy an Airalo eSim

Join my Japan Planning Facebook Groups!

Love Japan, or just have more questions? Join my Japan Holiday Planning Facebook Groups above!

What’s the cheapest airline to get from Australia to Japan?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan. Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Japan every day – check their website for their low Tokyo and Osaka fares and frequent sales!

Check Jetstar’s cheap Japan flights here

Have a question? Drop a comment below! I’d also love to hear about your own Japan planning experiences!

This page may contain affiliate links. If you book a stay, product or an attraction through one of them, I may receive a commission which never affects the price you pay. Thank you for your support! Any prices are correct as of January 2026 – always check with the source website for the most recent prices.

The post The Shinkansen luggage beginner’s guide appeared first on Let's go Mum.

Tokyo Disney Resort has early entry to their Disney parks just like the USA does, but it’s a very different experience. Here’s all about Tokyo Disney’s Happy Entry 15 minutes early entry – what happens, how you get it and if it’s worth using.

KKDay Disney Admission tickets CAN be used with your Disney Hotel Happy Entry early entry pass!

What is Tokyo Disney Happy Entry 15 minutes early entry?

Tokyo Disney early entry (officially named “Happy Entry”) is a Special Entrance Pass given to all Tokyo Disney hotel guests for the morning of their stay/s and or check out. (not check in day). This allows them to bypass the main and much longer Tokyo Disney entrance queue and enter 15 minutes earlier.

The Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo Disney Sea early entry pass must accompany a valid park entrance ticket. The Fantasy Springs Happy Entry area requires a second slip of paper – a Proof Of Stay, as only Fantasy Springs guests may use the Fantasy Springs Happy Entry.

Guests line up at a special area to enter the Tokyo Disney park you have been given the 15 minutes early entry pass for (not all hotels give you both passes – more about that in a minute) 15 minutes before the general entry gates open.

Guests with an early entry pass and valid park ticket are scanned into the park in a group 15 minutes early, which allows you to book passes, get photos, hire prams, buy food and line up for your desired first ride earlier than the general entry guests who enter at Tokyo Disney parks official opening time. Some rides may even start unofficially operating earlier. Open services during the fifteen minutes are limited. For example, DisneySea’s Tower of Terror queue does not open until 9am.

All guests of Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels are given Happy Entry 15 mins early entry to either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea.

Watch our DisneySea Happy Entry YouTube video here.

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Which Disney Resort Hotels give 15 minutes early entry to Tokyo Disneyland?

As this has changed several times recently, so it is important to double check before you book!

Currently, all official Tokyo Disney Resort hotels give the Tokyo Disneyland 15 minutes early Happy Entry to their guests. These hotels are:

Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotel
Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
Disney Ambassador Hotel
Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story Hotel
Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel

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Which Disney Hotels give 15 minutes early entry to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea?

As this has changed several times so it is important to double check before you book!

Only the Tokyo Disney Resort luxury hotels also give Happy Entry to Tokyo Resort DisneySea, in addition to Tokyo Resort Disneyland. These hotels currently are:

Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
Tokyo Disney Fantasy Springs Hotels

Can I get early entry into Tokyo DisneySea direct from Miracosta Hotel?

No, you need to use the official park early entry for Happy Entry or General Entry until after 10am.

Can I get early entry into Tokyo DisneySea staying at Tokyo Disney Toy Story Hotel?

No, you may only use the direct entry through Fantasy Springs Hotel after 10am and before 9pm.

Where is Tokyo Disneyland Happy Entry early entry located?

Tokyo Disney Resort Happy Entries have special entrance areas which are separate to the general entry queues.

Where is the Fantasy Springs Hotel Happy Entry?

Fantasy Springs Hotel has two separate, special Happy Entrances.

The Fantasy Springs Hotel Grand Chateau Happy Entry (30mins early entry) entrance is located on the first floor, whilst the Fantasy Springs Hotel Happy Entry (15mins early entry) is the main Fantasy Springs Entrance for guests only, which passes underneath the hotel.

Which is the best DisneySea Happy Entry?

With its proximity to Fantasy Springs, the Fantasy Springs Hotel has the most advantageous Happy Entry for that area of DisneySea.

Whilst they are both DisneySea Happy Entries, Fantasy Springs Hotel gives its eligible guests a much bigger headstart on MiraCosta’s Happy Entry guests. This is because MiraCosta Hotel’s Happy Entry guests enter the park next to the main DisneySea entry, a good 15 to 20 minutes’ walk away from Fantasy Springs.

MiraCosta Happy Entry guests will still be making their way across the theme park whilst Fantasy Springs first Happy Entry guests may well be finishing their first and on to their second Fantasy Springs ride. Finally. Arriving yet another 15 minutes later will be the first main entry queue guests.

Therefore, the Fantasy Springs Hotel has the best Happy Entry for one of DisneySea’s most popular rides – Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, followed by Rapunzel and Peter Pan. Due to its privileged location, the Fantasy Springs Hotel Happy Entry works out to be more like 30-45 minute DisneySea early start than 15 minutes!

Can I get Tokyo Disneyland Happy 15 early entry on check in day?

No, Happy Entry is not able to be used on check in day under any circumstances. Happy Entry passes are given at check in and won’t be given earlier. As check in is from 3pm in the afternoon, it is too late for early entry on the day of check in. Even if you are able to check in early, you won’t be given a Happy Entry pass for that day.

Can I still use the Fantasy Springs Hotel park entry on check in day?

Yes, even though you can’t get Happy Entry on check in day you are allowed to use the Fantasy Springs Hotel DisneySea entry on check in day. You will need to have a valid DisneySea admission ticket plus a Proof of Stay slip obtained from the Concierge Desk inside the hotel at pre-check in. You will need to queue and wait to enter DisneySea at official opening time using the Fantasy Springs Hotel park entry.

Do Tokyo Disneyland partner hotels give early entry?

No. Tokyo Disney partner hotels do offer a complimentary shuttle bus to the Tokyo Disney Resort parks, however they do not offer their guests the 15 minutes early entry pass to the Disney Parks.

• Urayasu Brighton Hotel Tokyo Bay
• Oriental Hotel Tokyo Bay
• Hotel Emion Tokyo Bay
• Mitsui Garden Hotel Prana Tokyo Bay

Do Tokyo Disney Official Partner Hotels offer early entry?

No. Official Tokyo Disney Partner hotels do not offer Happy Entry. But these hotels shouldn’t be confused with the Tokyo Disney Hotels! The following hotels are called “official” Tokyo Disney hotels by Tokyo Disney. Confusing, isn’t it!

These hotels are the Official Tokyo Disney Hotels. They offer a free shuttle bus service to the Disney parks or monorail, plus a luggage delivery service to and from the Welcome Centre at the Mahaima JR Railway Station. They DO NOT offer Happy Entry (15 minutes early entry).

• Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama
• Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel First Resort
• Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel
• Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel
• Hilton Tokyo Bay
• Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay

Does Happy early Entry include children sharing a bed in Tokyo Disney Hotels?

Yes, children aged 4 and over bed sharing in Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels will also receive Happy Entry early entrance Special Entrance Passes. Children under 4 can accompany their parents in any case.

Are the rides open during the 15 minutes early entry at Tokyo Disney?

Sometimes, unofficially. DisneySea Fantasy Springs rides are regularly operational during Happy Entry. Often other rides aren’t open during the early entry period, however you can line up for them. Rides will officially commence operating at the official park opening time. Tower of Terror ride queue is closed during Happy Entry.

What is open during Happy Entry?

Tokyo Disney park services including Pram and wheelchair hire, the Tokyo Disney guest services information office and first aid will all be open.

Do Tokyo Disney Resort partner hotels give Happy Entry?

No. There are no hotels other than Tokyo Disney Resort hotels that offer the 15 minutes early entry.

Do Tokyo Disney Vacation Packages include Happy Entry?

No, Tokyo Disney Vacation Packages do not include Happy Entry. Happy Entry is a separate bonus attached to each Disney hotel and is not connected to any TDR Vacation Package. VP holders can only get Happy Entry for their first Vacation Package day if they book an extra night the night before their VP (with the appropriate Disney Hotel for their VP Day 1 park). Happy Entries are according to the hotel and not Vacation Packages, so also may not align with Day 2 of Vacation Packages if the VP Disney Hotel’s Happy Entry isn’t the correct one for their Day 2 Park.

Do I have to buy our Tokyo Disney tickets at the hotel to use the Happy Hour early entry pass?

No, you just need a valid park ticket (so you can buy park tickets from KKDay or Klook to use with your Happy Entry)

Where can I buy Klook Tokyo Disneyland Tickets online?

Buy your Klook Tokyo Disneyland tickets online here

You can also read our guide on how to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets online here.

What’s the best way to get from Australia to Tokyo Disney?

We partnered with Jetstar Australia to fly from Australia to Japan to visit Tokyo and Tokyo Disneyland. See Jetstar Australia’s cheap Japan flights here

Jetstar Australia offer cheap fares to Tokyo every day – check their website for their low Tokyo fares and frequent sales.

Find out more at the official Tokyo Disney Happy Entry website page here.

Join my Tokyo Disneyland Facebook Group

Love all things Tokyo Disneyland, or just have more questions? Join our huge Tokyo Disney Facebook Group here!

Further reading…

Learn all about Tokyo Disney Resort fast passes

A step-by-step guide of how to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets here

6 things at Tokyo Disneyland you won’t find at other Disney Parks!

See our pick of Tokyo Disneylands best rides here.

You may also be interested in these other Disneyland holidays…

Read about our Aussie family Disneyland Park California holiday here.

Book tickets online to Walt Disney World in Orlando

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