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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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.

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