Universal Studios Japan Plans Historic 200-300 Billion Yen Expansion
Bastillepost · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is preparing for its most ambitious expansion since opening in 2001, with plans to invest 200-300 billion yen (approximately 98-148 billion HKD) to increase the park's footprint for the first time in 25 years. Multiple Japanese media outlets reported on August 28, 2026, that the theme park will expand onto a former Nippon Steel factory site covering approximately 60,000 square meters north of the existing grounds. Osaka City is expected to formally announce the plan soon, with the lease agreement slated for signing in spring 2028.
Key Points
- USJ will invest 200-300 billion yen to expand onto a 60,000-square-meter former Nippon Steel factory site north of the current park
- This represents the first expansion of the park's area since its opening in 2001, when the park initially covered approximately 540,000 square meters
- Nippon Steel ceased operations at the site and began demolition in April, with the land lease contract expiring in 2027
- Super Nintendo World, opened in 2021, significantly boosted visitor numbers, with USJ attracting 16 million guests in 2024
- USJ has ranked third globally in theme park attendance for three consecutive years, according to the Themed Entertainment Association survey
Why It Matters
The expansion signals USJ's determination to maintain its competitive edge against rival theme parks across Asia, particularly as international tourist arrivals to Japan continue climbing. For Hong Kong visitors planning future trips to Japan, the new attractions could reshape travel itineraries and increase demand for package tours to Osaka.
The expansion signals USJ's determination to maintain its competitive edge against rival theme parks across Asia, particularly as international tourist arrivals to Japan continue climbing. For Hong Kong visitors planning future trips to Japan, the new attractions could reshape travel itineraries and increase demand for package tours to Osaka.