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Osaka Aquarium KaiyukanvsUniversal Studios Japan
Both are rated very highly by professional reviewers writing for major publications. Overall, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan ranks significantly better than Universal Studios Japan. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan comes in at #1 in Osaka with recommendations from 5 reviewers such as Frommer's, Lonely Planet and Fodor's.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Fodor's
Michelin Guide
Lonely Planet
Frommer's
1-1-10 Kaigan-dori, Minato-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 552-0022
From $0/night
Fodor's "This eye-catching red, gray, and blue building is Japan's best aquarium outside of Okinawa and one of the world's largest." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"The extremely modern area around the port boasts many attractions, one of which is the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan." Full review
Lonely Planet "Kaiyūkan is among Japan's best aquariums." Full review
Frommer's "One of the world's largest...tours begin through a tunnel filled with reef fish, followed by an escalator ride to the eighth floor; from there, you'll pass through 15 different habitats " Full review
Universal Studios Japan Fodor's Lonely Planet
Travel + Leisure Frommer's
2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 554-0031
From $0/night
Fodor's "The 140-acre Universal Studios Japan combines the most popular rides and shows from Universal's Hollywood and Florida movie-studio theme parks with special attractions designed specifically for Japan." Full review
Lonely Planet "Modeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka, incorporates themes and attractions from its U.S. counterparts, but it's also home to the first Super Nintendo World"
20 Best Amusement Parks in the World
March 6, 2022
Frommer's "...[T]his park takes guests on a fantasy trip through the world of American blockbuster movies, with thrill rides, live entertainment, back-lot streets, restaurants, [and] shops." Full review
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Plan for an entire day here, but note that it is immensely popular: Avoid weekends, arrive early, and buy a Universal Express Pass Booklet, which allows priority entry into designated rides (the price of these varies by type, age, and advance purchase, so check the website).
