Universal Cool Japan 2027 at USJ: What Groups Need to Know

Explera DMC Japan is planning Osaka programmes around Universal Cool Japan 2027 at Universal Studios Japan. The event starts on 2 December 2026 and adds its themed attractions in stages. The first is Sailor Moon, which runs from 2 December 2026 to 5 April 2027, over the New Year and spring holiday peaks.

USJ announced the event on 30 September 2026, in the park's 25th anniversary year. Universal Cool Japan brings Japanese entertainment titles into the park for a limited time.

What is in the first phase of Universal Cool Japan 2027?

• A 4-D theatre show returns. The Sailor Moon 4-D show first shown in 2022 comes back in a deluxe version.
• A new story ride. Hollywood Dream – The Ride will run a Sailor Moon story version for the first time.
• A fourth collaboration. USJ worked with Sailor Moon in 2018, 2019 and 2022 before this one.
• A second title is confirmed. The Apothecary Diaries follows from 10 February to 30 June 2027, its second collaboration with the park. USJ says more titles will be announced, along with dates for themed food and goods.

How do we plan group visits?

• Avoid the busiest days. The Sailor Moon run covers New Year and the spring school holidays, so we steer groups to weekdays where we can.
• Book entry early. We secure park tickets and any timed entry for the attractions as soon as dates are fixed.
• Watch for new titles. USJ will add attractions in stages, so we update clients when each new title is announced.
• Base the group in Osaka. A hotel near the park or on a direct rail line keeps the start of the day simple.

See our guides to Japan's theme parks, Osaka tours and anime and pop culture tours.

For hotels and transfers around the park, see our group travel service and our Osaka destination page.

Sources: Universal Studios Japan: Universal Cool Japan 2027 announcement and Universal Studios Japan: The Apothecary Diaries event page.