Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026 Horror Nights and Events
Universal Studios Japan Halloween returns in 2026 with new horror attractions, street zombies, limited-time rides and family-friendly activities. Halloween Horror Nights will also celebrate its 15th anniversary. Here is everything Filipino travelers need to know, including event dates, attractions, tickets, transport and travel tips.
Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026
Universal Studios Japan Halloween is one of the most popular seasonal events in Osaka. In 2026, visitors can expect new haunted attractions, returning horror characters, live performances and special versions of popular rides.
The main Universal Extreme Autumn: Discover U!!! event will run from September 10 to November 8, 2026. Halloween Horror Nights will take place from September 11 to November 8, 2026.
Most street zombie activities and nighttime shows will begin at 6:00 PM and continue until the park closes.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
Event | Universal Extreme Autumn and Halloween Horror Nights |
Main Event Dates | September 10 to November 8, 2026 |
Halloween Horror Nights Dates | September 11 to November 8, 2026 |
Location | Universal Studios Japan, Osaka |
Main Highlights | Haunted attractions, street zombies, live shows and limited-time rides |
I really liked the park! I bought a standard ticket and managed to visit 8 attractions in 11 hours, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. To my surprise, the park itself was more crowded than in Beijing, although I had to wait for an hour on some rides, but the single-person queues saved me. I 100% recommend going on Jaws, the flying dinosaurs, and the Mario cart! I also recommend the ride in the Jurassic Park zone – you'll have a truly incredible experience there! I recommend visiting the Hogwarts zone twice: in daylight and at night. Fans should definitely get a butterbeer and explore all the rides, as the queue areas are designed like locations from the films and are interesting in their own right. The park staff are very pleasant and helpful if you need assistance. The queues for absolutely all the rides except the ride moved 30% faster than they were advertised at the beginning of the queues, and even on the flying dinosaurs, I didn't have to wait longer than an hour. I will definitely come back here again later!Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026 Attractions
| Attraction | Event Period | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
Halloween Horror Nights 15th Anniversary | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | New horror experiences and anniversary shows |
Resident Evil Requiem: The Dive | September 11 to December 27, 2026 | New Resident Evil horror attraction |
Street Zombies | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | One of the biggest groups of zombies in the event's history |
Zombie de Dance | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Live dance performances with zombies |
Halloween Horror Nights Academy: 15 Years of Screams | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Anniversary show with returning zombies and characters |
Factory of Fear: Zombie Tour | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Horror attraction inside a zombie factory |
Sadako's Curse | September 11, 2026 to January 4, 2027 | Horror version of Space Fantasy: The Ride |
KATE PRESENTS Witches of House 18: Bewitching Mansion of Emotion | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Interactive Halloween experience |
Chainsaw Man Limited-Time Attractions | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Limited-time 4-D and roller coaster experiences |
Minions Belloween Greeting | September 10 to November 8, 2026 | Minions in special Halloween costumes |
Trick or Treat | Halloween season | Candy activity for children |
JAWS: Red Alert | September 11, 2026 to January 31, 2027 | Nighttime horror version of JAWS |
Jurassic Park - The Ride in the Dark | September 11 to November 8, 2026 | Jurassic Park ride in darkness |
Hogwarts Castle Walk | September 1, 2026 to January 17, 2027 | Explore the inside of Hogwarts Castle |
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD 5th Anniversary | March 18, 2026 to January 11, 2027 | Anniversary characters, decorations and activities |
Halloween Horror Nights 15th Anniversary
Halloween Horror Nights celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2026, bringing new horror attractions, returning characters, street zombies and special performances to Universal Studios Japan.
After 6:00 PM, selected areas of the park will turn into zombie zones. Visitors can experience Street Zombies, Zombie de Dance, haunted attractions and Halloween versions of popular rides.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Main nighttime activities: From 6:00 PM until the park closes
Age guidance: Halloween Horror Nights is not recommended for children aged 5 or under. Guests aged 12 or under require parental consent.
Families with children should check the official event map for zombie areas, safe areas and safe routes before exploring the park at night.
Halloween Horror Nights: All Night
Universal Studios Japan will hold a special Halloween Horror Nights: All Night event on September 25, 2026.
The event lets visitors experience selected Halloween Horror Nights attractions, street zombies, shows and popular rides throughout the night.
Event date: September 25, 2026
Event time: 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM the following day
Age requirement: Guests under 18 are not allowed to participate
Ticket requirement: A separate paid Halloween Horror Nights: All Night ticket is required
Guests with eligible All Night tickets can enter the park earlier, depending on the ticket type. Selected attractions, restaurants and shops will operate during the overnight event, although operating hours vary.
Resident Evil Requiem: The Dive
Resident Evil Requiem: The Dive is one of the major new horror attractions at Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026.
Inspired by Resident Evil Requiem, the attraction takes visitors inside the abandoned Wrenwood Hotel, where monsters and other threats can appear from different directions.
The experience uses detailed sets, live characters and surprise scares to recreate the atmosphere of the game.
Event dates: September 11 to December 27, 2026
Location: Stage 18
Operating hours: 10:00 AM until the park closes
Age requirement: Guests aged 14 or under are not allowed
Entry requirement: A Timed Entry eTicket is required
Timed Entry eTickets can be obtained through the official Universal Studios Japan app. On less crowded days, USJ may allow entry without one, but visitors should not rely on this.
Lights Out: Nightmare Isolation
Lights Out: Nightmare Isolation is an R-18 horror attraction introduced for the 15th anniversary of Halloween Horror Nights.
Visitors enter a dark and isolated environment with limited visibility, intense sound effects and unexpected scares. The experience is designed to be one of the most intense horror attractions at the event.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Location: Stage 18
Operating hours: 10:00 AM until the park closes
Age requirement: Guests aged 17 or under are not allowed
Ticket requirement: A separate paid ticket is required
Waiver: Visitors must sign a waiver on the day of their visit before entering
Bags cannot be taken inside the attraction and must be stored in the lockers provided near the entrance.
Street Zombies
Street Zombies returns on a larger scale in 2026. Universal Studios Japan says the event will feature one of the biggest groups of zombies in its Halloween history.
After 6:00 PM, zombies will appear across selected areas of the park. Visitors can expect surprise scares, live performances and different zombie characters while walking between attractions.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Event time: 6:00 PM until the park closes
The park will provide zombie areas, safe areas and safe routes. Families with children should check the event map before walking around the park at night.
Zombie de Dance
Zombie de Dance is a live street performance where visitors can dance together with zombies.
The 2026 version will feature popular songs connected to previous Halloween Horror Nights events, including music by King Gnu, Ado and Sandaime J Soul Brothers.
The performance combines music, dancing and horror characters, making it less frightening than a traditional haunted house.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Event time: From 6:00 PM
Performance locations and times may change each day. Check the official USJ app during your visit.
Halloween Horror Nights Academy: 15 Years of Screams
Halloween Horror Nights Academy: 15 Years of Screams is a special anniversary show featuring zombies and horror characters from past events.
The show brings together popular performances and frightening characters from the event’s 15-year history. It will take place at Gramercy Park during the Halloween season.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Location: Gramercy Park
Performance times: Different each day
A special viewing area ticket may be available for visitors who want a closer view of the performance.
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Factory of Fear: Zombie Tour
Factory of Fear: Zombie Tour is a horror attraction set inside a disturbing zombie production factory.
Visitors walk through dark areas while trying to escape zombies and uncover what is happening inside the factory.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Location: Stage 22
Operating hours: 10:00 AM until the park closes
Age requirement: Guests aged 14 or under are not allowed
Entry requirement: A Timed Entry eTicket may be required
Check the official USJ app during your visit for the latest entry requirements and availability.
Sadako’s Curse
Sadako’s Curse returns to Universal Studios Japan as a dark horror version of Space Fantasy: The Ride.
The indoor ride combines fast movement, darkness and frightening scenes inspired by Sadako. Visitors may experience sudden sounds, unexpected appearances and strong lighting effects.
It is a good choice for visitors who enjoy Japanese horror movies and thrilling rides.
Event dates: September 11, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Location: Space Fantasy: The Ride
Visitors who are uncomfortable with darkness, fast movements or sudden scares should check the attraction requirements before joining.
KATE PRESENTS Witches of House 18: Bewitching Mansion of Emotion
Japanese makeup brand KATE partners with Universal Studios Japan for an interactive Halloween experience called KATE PRESENTS Witches of House 18: Bewitching Mansion of Emotion.
Visitors enter a mysterious mansion of mirrors and meet four witches connected to different emotions. The experience combines storytelling, visual effects and interactive elements.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Location: Stage 18
Operating hours: 9:00 AM until the park closes
Age requirement: Guests aged 12 or under, or elementary school age and under, are not allowed
Entry requirement: A Timed Entry eTicket is required
Timed Entry eTickets can be obtained through the official Universal Studios Japan app.
Chainsaw Man Limited-Time Attractions
Chainsaw Man fans can enjoy limited-time experiences during the 2026 Halloween season.
Chainsaw Man: The Chaos 4-D brings visitors into a battle against dangerous devils using moving seats, sound, wind and screen effects.
Hollywood Dream: The Ride Backdrop will also feature “IRIS OUT” by Kenshi Yonezu, the theme song from Chainsaw Man: The Movie, Reze Arc.
These attractions will only be available for a limited period during autumn 2026.
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Minions Belloween Greeting
Visitors looking for a family-friendly Halloween activity can meet the Minions during Minions Belloween Greeting.
The Minions appear in special Halloween costumes for seasonal greetings and photo opportunities.
Event dates: September 10 to November 8, 2026
Location: Near the park entrance, under the canopy and in front of Minion Park
Event times: Vary depending on the day
Check the official USJ schedule around one week before your visit for the latest appearance times.
Trick or Treat
Children can join the Trick or Treat activity during the Halloween season.
Simply say “Trick or Treat” to participating park crew members to receive Halloween candy.
The activity is normally available during the daytime and may end when all candy has been distributed.
Event time: Park opening until 5:00 PM
The activity may not be available inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
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JAWS: Red Alert
JAWS: Red Alert is a nighttime Halloween version of the classic JAWS attraction.
After sunset, the boat ride becomes darker and more frightening. Visitors will travel through the water with limited visibility while waiting for the shark to appear.
Fog, darkness and frightening sound effects make the nighttime version more intense than the regular daytime ride.
Event dates: September 11, 2026 to January 31, 2027
Event time: After sunset until the park closes
Location: JAWS
Jurassic Park: The Ride in the Dark
Jurassic Park - The Ride will operate a special nighttime version during Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026.
Visitors travel through the dinosaur area in darkness, making the sounds, sudden movements and dinosaur encounters feel more intense.
The attraction includes dark areas, dinosaurs, water effects and the ride's famous drop near the end.
Event dates: September 11 to November 8, 2026
Location: Jurassic Park - The Ride
September 11 to October 9: From 6:30 PM until the park closes
October 10 to November 8: From 6:00 PM until the park closes
Prepare to get wet during the ride, especially if you sit near the front.
Hogwarts Castle Walk
Harry Potter fans can explore the inside of Hogwarts Castle through the special Hogwarts Castle Walk.
Visitors can see the hall of talking portraits, detailed castle rooms and other areas inside Hogwarts without joining the regular ride.
This experience is suitable for visitors who want to explore the castle at a slower pace.
Event dates: September 1, 2026 to January 17, 2027
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD 5th Anniversary
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD celebrates its fifth anniversary with special decorations, characters and limited-time activities.
The anniversary celebration includes special experiences with Mario and other SUPER NINTENDO WORLD characters, along with anniversary decorations around the area.
Event dates: March 18, 2026 to January 11, 2027
Location: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
An Area Timed Entry Ticket: Advance Booking, Area Timed Entry Ticket or Standby Entry Ticket is generally required to enter SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
Visitors can get same-day Timed Entry or Standby Entry Tickets through the official Universal Studios Japan app after entering the park. Entry without one may sometimes be possible depending on crowd conditions.
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Halloween Horror Nights Academy Viewing Ticket
Visitors who want a closer view of the 15th-anniversary limited-time show can purchase a special viewing area ticket for Halloween Horror Nights Academy: 15 Years of Screams.
The dedicated viewing area lets guests enjoy the stage performance from a better position. The show brings together popular horror characters and memorable elements from past Halloween Horror Nights events.
Show: Halloween Horror Nights Academy: 15 Years of Screams
Viewing location: Gramercy Park
Ticket sales: From around 12:00 PM on July 14, 2026
Ticket price: From ¥2,100, depending on the visit date
Where to buy: Universal Studios Japan official website
Is a Universal Express Pass Worth Buying?
Halloween is one of the busiest seasons at Universal Studios Japan. Popular rides and limited-time horror attractions can have long queues, especially during weekends and throughout October.
A Universal Express Pass may be useful if you want to experience several popular attractions in one day.
However, each Express Pass includes a different group of rides. Check whether your preferred Halloween attractions are included before purchasing.
The Express Pass is separate from the regular Studio Pass and does not include park admission.
How to Get to Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is in Osaka’s Konohana Ward. The nearest train station is Universal City Station, which is about a five-minute walk from the park entrance.
From Kansai International Airport
| Transport | Travel Time | Estimated Fare |
|---|---|---|
JR train | 70 to 80 minutes | From ¥1,210 |
Airport bus and JR train | 90 to 120 minutes | From ¥1,800 |
Taxi or private transfer | 70 to 90 minutes | Around ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 |
The recommended JR route is:
Kansai Airport Station
→ Take a JR train toward Osaka
→ Transfer at Osaka Station
→ Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station
→ Transfer to the JR Yumesaki Line
→ Get off at Universal City Station
From Osaka to Universal Studios Japan
Starting Point | Route | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
Osaka Station | Osaka Station → Nishikujo → Universal City | 15 to 20 minutes |
Shinsaibashi | Shinsaibashi → Hommachi → Osaka → Nishikujo → Universal City | 30 to 40 minutes |
JR Namba | JR Namba → Imamiya → Nishikujo → Universal City | Around 30 minutes |
Tennoji | Tennoji → Nishikujo → Universal City | 25 to 30 minutes |
Shin-Osaka | Shin-Osaka → Osaka → Nishikujo → Universal City | 25 to 35 minutes |
Train fares and travel times may change depending on the route and connection.
What to Prepare Before Visiting
- Japan eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi: You will need internet access to check maps, attraction wait times, show schedules and Timed Entry eTickets.
- Portable charger: Taking photos and using the USJ app throughout the day can quickly drain your phone battery.
- Comfortable shoes: Universal Studios Japan is large, and visitors may need to walk or stand in queues for several hours.
- Light jacket: Osaka evenings can become cooler from September to November, especially during nighttime Halloween activities.
- USJ ticket and Express Pass: Book your park ticket early. An Express Pass may help reduce waiting times for selected attractions.
- Japanese yen: Most stores accept cards or electronic payments, but carrying a small amount of cash is still useful.
- Small towel or raincoat: Some rides, including Jurassic Park: The Ride, may leave you wet.
- Simple costume accessories: Visitors may wear Halloween costumes, but they should check the official USJ costume rules before entering.
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Universal Studios Japan Halloween Tips
- Arrive early so you can experience regular rides before Halloween Horror Nights begins.
- Use the morning to visit popular areas such as SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Park.
- Check the USJ app for attraction wait times, show schedules and Timed Entry eTickets.
- Eat before the evening Halloween activities begin because restaurants may become crowded after 6:00 PM.
- Check the zombie map when visiting with children or guests who do not enjoy strong scares.
- Visit haunted houses earlier when possible because queues may become longer at night.
- Book your park ticket, Express Pass, flights and hotel before your travel dates.
FAQs: Universal Studios Japan Halloween
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When is Universal Studios Japan Halloween 2026?
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What time does Halloween Horror Nights start at USJ?
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Is Halloween Horror Nights suitable for children?
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Do I need a separate ticket for Halloween Horror Nights?
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What is Halloween Horror Nights: All Night?
