Osaka is undoubtedly one of Japan’s famous tourist destinations, rivaling Tokyo with its iconic attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan (USJ). While Tokyo often steals the spotlight, 2025 is Osaka’s time to shine. Keep reading to find out the top things to do in Osaka 2025!
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Discover Exciting New Events in Osaka 2025!
2025 is a big year for Osaka as it takes the lead in hosting Expo 2025! On top of that, USJ, one of Japan’s most famous amusement parks, is introducing new experiences, attractions, food, and souvenirs. What makes this year even more special is the limited-time events—some will only be available for a few months in 2025! Keep reading to discover exciting things to do in Osaka this year, from key events and attractions to essential dates for planning your perfect trip.
New Events and Attractions in USJ
Image credits: Photo by Roméo A. on Unsplash
Make the most of USJ’s latest events and attractions! While some are here to stay, others are only available for a limited time. With heavy crowds expected, planning your visit wisely is essential—especially if you want to enjoy all the new experiences.
Super Nintendo World: Donkey Kong Country
USJ first opened Super Nintendo World in 2021, and now, the excitement is expanded with a brand-new area—Donkey Kong Country! Hop into a cart in Mine Cart Madness and embark on a thrilling roller coaster ride filled with exciting drops and sharp turns, alongside Donkey Kong himself!
It was opened on December 11, 2024, and is a permanent addition to the park. In addition to the ride, you’ll find new food options, exclusive merchandise, and cool photo spots—one during the ride and another outside with Donkey Kong!
Since the area is new, entry requires a separate ticket. Before your visit, check USJ’s website for ticket details!
Detective Conan: The World
This limited-time event started on January 31, 2025 and runs until June 30, 2025. Step into a real-life escape game and mystery restaurant case, solving puzzles alongside Detective Conan’s iconic characters!
These experiences are paid and include three sub-events: Detective Conan: The Escape, Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant, and the Detective Conan x Story Ride: Thrill Track Attack on Hollywood Dream: The Ride, where you’ll experience a story narrated by Detective Conan’s characters! The event also offers limited time merchandise and fun food options.
Separate tickets are required for these experiences and are conducted in Japanese only.
Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure: Nobita’s Art World Tales
This limited-time experience is based on the latest movie, Doraemon: Nobita’s Art World Tales, released on March 7, 2025. Running from February 14 to August 17, 2025, Doraemon 4-D Art Adventure: Nobita’s Art World Tales lets you step into a world of paintings alongside Nobita and his friends. Enjoy an immersive theater experience with vibrating seats and splashing water, bringing the adventure to life!
Also, enjoy four unique food options and grab limited-edition Doraemon-themed merchandise to complete your experience.
Osaka Expo 2025
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Osaka Expo 2025 will take place from April 13, 2025, to October 13, 2025, in Yumeshima, Osaka. Surrounded by the sea, the venue offers breathtaking ocean views, making it an unforgettable experience. With the theme “Designing the Future of Our Society” and the concept “People’s Living Lab,” you’ll experience cutting-edge technologies firsthand through exhibitions, events, and galleries. For those who can’t attend, a virtual expo will be available. Other exciting events include water shows, traditional performing arts, festivals, parades, pop culture events, and more! If you’re concerned about crowds, don’t worry—advance bookings, limited entry, and a pavilion booking system ensure a calm, safe experience.
USJ and Expo 2025 Bundle Ticket
The USJ Official Web Ticket Store offers different types of tickets, from one-day to half-day passes. However, one option that might interest those planning to visit USJ and Expo is the 1-Day Studio Pass + Expo 2025 Osaka Admission ticket. This ticket grants you a one-day pass for USJ and a separate one-day ticket for Expo 2025. Based on your preferred events and experiences, the bundle ticket allows you to visit the Expo any day from the event’s start in April to the end of October.
However, it’s important to note that USJ tickets have variable pricing, where prices can fluctuate depending on the calendar. For Expo, the Opening Ticket (valid for one day until April 26) and Half Period Ticket (valid for one day until July 18) are only available before the Expo starts. After the Expo begins, one-day ticket prices increase. So, depending on your desired visit day, purchasing tickets individually may be more affordable than the bundle.
Check out the Expo event calendar here!
Read our article about the Expo here!
Which of These Exciting Things to Do in Osaka Are You Looking Forward to?
Now that you know all the key dates and events, it’s time to start planning your perfect Osaka trip for 2025! Whether diving into all the exciting events at USJ or experiencing the cutting-edge innovations at Expo 2025, remember—planning ahead will help you make the most of your adventure.
Related articles:
- Things to Do in Osaka on a Weekend
- Vegan Restaurants in Osaka: Discovering Kansai’s Flavorful Plant-Based Scene
Featured image credits: Canva.com
