When visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ), you might wonder, 'What should I bring for my first visit?' or 'Are there any items that can make my trip more enjoyable？'
If you’re unsure about what to take with you to USJ, don’t worry！
In this guide, we’ll introduce essential items that are must-haves for beginners, handy items to bring depending on the season or situation, and even items that you’re not allowed to bring into the park.
At the end of the article, there’s a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare, so be sure to check it out！
Note：This article was written as part of my English learning journey. While I have done my best, some expressions may be inaccurate. Thank you for your understanding！
- USJ Essentials: Must-Have Items
- Useful Items to Bring to USJ (Seasonal and Situational)
- Prohibited Items at USJ
- USJ Coin Locker Services
- List of things to bring to USJ (packing list)
- Summary of USJ Essentials and Convenient Items
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USJ Essentials: Must-Have Items
When visiting USJ, there are three essential items you absolutely must not forget.
■ Smartphone
Your smartphone is the most important item for your USJ visit.
It’s not just for taking photos and videos to capture your memories, but also for utilizing the USJ official app for various services, including.
The app provides access to nearly all of USJ’s services.
Make sure to download it to your smartphone before your visit！
To fully enjoy USJ’s services, download the official app in advance. You can download it from USJ’s official website.
■ Studio Pass (Printed Ticket)
The Studio Pass is your ticket to enter USJ, and it’s absolutely essential.
Without it, you won’t be able to enter the park. While you can display the QR code on your smartphone if you purchased a ticket online with “Direct Entry,” it’s a good idea to bring a printed copy as a backup in case of phone issues or battery depletion.
Keep it with you at all times during your visit.
Note：Purchasing tickets online with “Direct Entry” allows you to skip the ticket booth lines on the day of your visit.
Simply scan the QR code on your smartphone or printed ticket at the entrance gate for smooth entry.
■ Cash and Credit Card
Cash and credit cards are essential not just for USJ but for any trip.
While credit cards are accepted at most locations in USJ, there are exceptions, such as food carts, parking lots.
Be sure to carry some cash for those situations！
Useful Items to Bring to USJ (Seasonal and Situational)
Here’s a basic list of items that can make your visit more convenient.
Along with essentials, consider adding items to handle minor inconveniences or emergencies, such as bandages and basic medication.
■ Mobile Battery
Using your smartphone frequently at USJ can drain its battery quickly.
A mobile battery ensures you stay connected and can use all app functions without worry.
While rental mobile batteries are available in the park, they may run out during busy times, so bringing your own is recommended to avoid delays.
■ Leisure Sheet (Groundsheet)
A leisure sheet is great for breaks or waiting for shows.
Choose a size that accommodates you and your belongings without disturbing others.
During summer, the ground can get hot, and in winter, it can be cold, so consider a thicker mat for added comfort.
■ Other Handy Items：Zipper Bags and Plastic bags
Ziplock bags and plastic bags are not only useful for temporarily storing popcorn or food but also for protecting valuables like smartphones and cameras from water, especially during shows or attractions involving water.
It's a good idea to store items that shouldn't get wet in these bags for added protection.
Also, since some shows or attractions may leave you wet as well, it's recommended to bring a poncho or raincoat if needed.
By the way, ponchos and raincoats are also available for purchase inside the park, although even disposable ones can be a bit pricey when bought there.
Items Useful in Summer
Here are the items that can be particularly handy during summer at USJ.
With the park often reaching high temperatures in summer, managing your health to prevent heatstroke and dehydration is crucial.
Pack items like hats, handheld fans, sweat towels, drinks, electrolyte-replenishing salt candies, and ice neck rings to stay cool and hydrated.
Additionally, since you may have to wait in long lines for attractions or watch shows under the scorching sun, sunscreen is a must！
Items Useful in Winter
Here are the items that can be particularly helpful in winter at USJ.
USJ can get very cold in winter, so make sure to bring items like heat packs, gloves, and warm clothing to stay comfortable.
A blanket can be useful for keeping your lap or shoulders warm while waiting for shows or parades.
Smartphone-compatible gloves are highly recommended since you'll frequently use your phone for photos or navigating the app.
These gloves will keep your hands warm and make using your phone easier.
Items Useful on Rainy Days (or Rainy Forecasts)
Here are the items that can come in handy on rainy days.
On rainy days, you'll likely need to carry extra items like rainwear to stay dry and comfortable.
Ponchos and raincoats are especially useful, as they can double as protection during water-related shows and attractions.
Carrying a folding umbrella is a good idea, even on sunny days, to prepare for sudden weather changes.
Items Useful for Families with Kids
For families with young children, the items you bring to USJ will depend on their age and needs.
Below is an example of a basic set for families with infants or toddlers.
At USJ, strollers can be rented for ¥1,100 (tax included) per day, so bringing your own stroller isn’t always necessary.
If you do bring one, ensure it meets the following safety conditions:
Prohibited Items at USJ
For the safety and comfort of all visitors, certain items are not allowed inside the park.
For a complete list of prohibited items, check USJ’s official website.
■ Food and Drinks
While baby food, snacks for small children, and non-alcoholic beverages in bottles or flasks can be brought into the park, other food items (e.g., packed lunches) are not allowed.
Packed meals can be consumed in the “Picnic Area” outside the park, but re-entry procedures are required.
Be aware that some studio passes, such as single-day or multi-day tickets, do not allow re-entry.
If you have an annual pass, confirm re-entry rules with park staff beforehand.
Note：The picnic area will close permanently on February 4, 2024. Please plan accordingly.
About Bringing and Using Selfie Sticks
In addition to general rules, monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks (including self-portrait sticks) are generally not allowed for use in the park.
However, compact, hand-sized models that can be folded and held in one hand are permitted as long as they do not extend above head height. When using a selfie stick in the park, please be mindful of other guests and your surroundings.
Camera accessories that fit within the palm of your hand (with the exception of extendable types) may be used with one hand as long as they do not extend above your head.
Rules for Bringing and Using Monopods, Tripods, and Selfie Sticks
Monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited in the park for guest safety.
Camera accessories that fit within the palm of your hand (with the exception of extendable types) may be used with one hand as long as they do not extend above your head.
Notes on Photography in the Park
Regarding photography in the park, shooting and posting images or videos of construction or renovation areas (inside enclosed areas) on social media or other platforms is prohibited. Additional photography rules can be checked on the USJ official website.
Photography in the Park
To ensure that all guests can enjoy the park safely and comfortably, the following types of photography are prohibited:
- Photography during an attraction
- Photography of quiz content and answers
- Flash photography (in certain areas)
- Photography of non-public areas, such as those undergoing renovation or construction
- Commercial photography (to prevent copyright infringement)
- Live streaming or similar filming
- Disruptive photography/filming activities that bother other guests, such as calling out to a large group of people
Other types of photography may also be prohibited. If the crew determines that your behavior bothers other guests, risks damage to facilities, or compromises the safety of the crew and/or entertainers, you may be asked to stop.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
USJ Coin Locker Services
Large luggage, such as carry-on suitcases, is not allowed inside the park.
For this reason, coin lockers are available outside the park to store large luggage before entering.
Additionally, there are coin lockers inside the park for storing small items or purchased souvenirs.
Using the coin locker services allows you to enjoy USJ hands-free and hassle-free.
■ Coin Locker Sizes and Prices (Cash-Only)
- Small (S) (W357 × D453 × H398 mm)：¥500
- Large (L) (W357 × D453 × H802 mm)：¥1,000
- Extra-Large (XL) (W536 × D617 × H926 mm)：¥1,500
- Free access type (W360 × D425 × H300 mm)：¥400 (¥100 refunded after use)
Note：A 500-yen payment is required to use the multiple-use lockers. However, 100 yen will be returned to you after use.
■ Coin Locker Sizes and Prices (Cashless Payment Lockers)
- Small (S) (W355 × D645 × H326 mm)：¥500
- Large (L) (W355 × D645 × H567 mm)：¥1,000
- Extra-Large (XL) (W355 × D645 × H868 mm)：¥1,500
Note:：The dimensions are different from those of the cash-only lockers.
■ Locations of USJ Coin Lockers
Cash-Only Lockers
- ① Inside the Park on your right after entering (S size, single use)
- ② Inside the Park in front of the Wonderland restrooms (multiple use)
- ③ Outside the Park on the left after entering the Entry Arch on the Universal-City Station side (L and S sizes, single use)
- ④ Outside the Park on the left in front of the Entry Arch on the parking area side (XL size, single use)
Cashless Payment Lockers
- ⑤ Outside the Park on the left in front of the Entry Arch on the parking area side (S, L, and XL sizes, single use)
Note：Coin lockers near stations or bus stops tend to fill up early in the day. Therefore, secure a locker as soon as you arrive at USJ to ensure availability.
List of things to bring to USJ (packing list)
To ensure a smooth visit, prepare for your trip by reviewing a List of things to bring to USJ.
The list includes essential items and other useful things to bring, helping you stay organized and ready for your adventure.
Summary of USJ Essentials and Convenient Items
This guide provided an overview of essential items and convenient things to bring to Universal Studios Japan (USJ), tailored to seasons and situations, along with items prohibited in the park.
The items introduced here are just examples. To enjoy USJ without stress, it’s important to minimize baggage and carefully select items based on the season, situation, and how you plan to spend your time in the park.
Plan ahead and enjoy a stress-free, comfortable, and unforgettable experience at USJ.
May your time at Universal Studios Japan be filled with wonderful memories！
