Universal Studios Japan Plans Major Expansion with New Attractions
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is planning its first major expansion since opening in 2001. Multiple Japanese media outlets reported on August 28 that the park will expand onto a former Nippon Steel factory site north of the current grounds, adding approximately 60,000 square meters. The project carries an estimated investment of 200 to 300 billion yen (about 9.8 billion to 14.8 billion Hong Kong dollars), with a lease agreement expected to be signed in spring 2028. The expansion comes as the park has attracted record visitor numbers, reaching 16 million guests in 2024 and ranking third globally for three consecutive years .
Key Points
- Universal Studios Japan's current grounds span approximately 540,000 square meters, with a portion leased from Osaka city .
- The expansion targets the former Nippon Steel factory site north of the park, covering roughly 60,000 square meters—equivalent to about 11 percent of existing space .
- The factory ceased operations and demolition began in April 2024, with Nippon Steel retaining ownership until the lease contract expires in 2027 .
- Super Nintendo World, opened in 2021, significantly boosted domestic and international visitor numbers to the park .
- According to the Themed Entertainment Association, Universal Studios Japan drew 16 million visitors in 2024, ranking third worldwide for the third straight year .
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong travelers, the expansion signals that Japan continues to invest heavily in major tourist infrastructure, potentially making it an even more dominant destination for regional tourism. The growing competition may prompt other theme park markets, including Hong Kong's own Ocean Park and Disneyland, to enhance their offerings to maintain visitor appeal .
For Hong Kong travelers, the expansion signals that Japan continues to invest heavily in major tourist infrastructure, potentially making it an even more dominant destination for regional tourism. The growing competition may prompt other theme park markets, including Hong Kong's own Ocean Park and Disneyland, to enhance their offerings to maintain visitor appeal .