Halloween at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is one of the most anticipated seasonal events in Osaka. For many foreigners living in or visiting Japan, it’s a chance to experience a Halloween celebration that blends Japanese creativity with world-class theme park entertainment. The best part is that even if you don’t speak Japanese, the thrills, visuals, and atmosphere are universally fun.
For 2025, USJ has planned new attractions, returning fan favorites, and special events that make this season unlike any other. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, so you can enjoy your Halloween adventure without stress.
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Halloween Horror Nights at USJ 2025
Halloween Horror Nights is the centerpiece of Universal Studios Japan’s seasonal celebration, drawing thrill-seekers from across the country and around the world. Once the sun sets, the entire park undergoes a dramatic transformation, filled with haunted houses, zombie-infested streets, and chilling live shows. It is not just an event—it’s an immersive, large-scale production where every corner of the park contributes to the atmosphere of fear and excitement.
What makes Halloween Horror Nights unique is its cinematic quality. Haunted houses are designed with movie-level sets and staffed with skilled actors who bring terrifying stories to life. Street zones teem with zombies that lunge at guests, while music, lights, and fog create the sensation of stepping into a horror film. Even familiar rides receive spooky overlays, so the park you visited during the day feels like an entirely new world at night.
| Category | Event Name | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Haunted Houses | Biohazard: The Extreme | Resident Evil survival horror with zombies and cinematic sets |
| Sadako’s Curse | Japanese horror legend with cursed videotapes and eerie corridors | |
| Cult of Chucky | Killer doll factory mixing gore, jump scares, and dark humor | |
| Street Zombies & Performances | Zombie Street Patrol | Roaming zombies surprising guests in fog-filled zones |
| Themed Zombie Zones | Annual zombie concepts like cyberpunk or carnival ghouls | |
| Stage Shows & Dance | Choreographed horror-themed music and dance performances | |
| Special Horror Rides | Space Fantasy: Black Hole Horror | Indoor coaster turned pitch-black with disorienting effects |
| Hollywood Dream: Backdrop Horror | Backward coaster with haunting soundtrack and audio design | |
| JAWS: Horror Encounter | Boat ride with red lighting, eerie water effects, extra scares | |
| Family-Friendly | Trick-or-Treat for Kids | Safe candy collection with staff and characters |
| Character Greetings & Parades | Minions, Snoopy, Elmo in Halloween costumes with parades | |
| Seasonal Food & Goods | Pumpkin churros, spooky drinks, and exclusive merchandise |
Haunted Houses at USJ Halloween
Haunted houses are the crown jewel of Halloween Horror Nights, offering immersive experiences with movie-level production. In 2025, guests can expect a mix of new Japanese horror stories and returning international franchises, ensuring a balance of cultural chills and Hollywood-style scares. Each house is carefully crafted with live actors, realistic soundscapes, and sudden jump scares that keep adrenaline levels high. These walk-through nightmares are updated every season, guaranteeing that no two Halloween events at USJ are the same.
1. Biohazard: The Extreme (バイオハザード・ザ・エクストリーム)
Step into the world of Resident Evil in this survival-horror inspired haunted house. Guests must navigate dark, zombie-infested corridors while trying to escape before time runs out. With Hollywood-level set design and live actors portraying gruesome creatures, the experience feels like being inside the video game itself. It’s one of the most intense and thrilling haunted houses USJ has ever created.
2. Sadako’s Curse (貞子の呪い)
Based on Japan’s most iconic horror legend, this haunted house delivers psychological chills instead of relying solely on loud scares. Guests wander through cursed videotapes, shadowy corridors, and eerie atmospheres where Sadako herself may suddenly appear. The slow build-up of tension keeps you on edge until the final terrifying reveal. For international visitors, it’s a chance to experience authentic Japanese horror firsthand.
3. Cult of Chucky (カルト・オブ・チャッキー)
This attraction brings the infamous killer doll into horrifying reality. Guests walk through a toy factory overtaken by Chucky’s twisted creations, where life-sized dolls and live actors blur the line between props and performers. Dark humor, gore, and over-the-top scares combine to create a uniquely unsettling experience. Fans of horror-comedy will especially appreciate its blend of frights and laughs.
Street Zombies and Live Performances in USJ Halloween
When night falls, Universal Studios Japan itself transforms into a living stage filled with zombies. Designated areas of the park become “zombie zones” where performers in grotesque costumes roam freely, startling guests at every turn. Fog, strobe lights, and haunting music create an eerie atmosphere that blurs the line between theme park and horror movie.
1. Zombie Street Patrol
Dozens of actors dressed as grotesque creatures wander the streets, often appearing suddenly from dark corners to terrify unsuspecting guests. Every year introduces new zombie designs, ensuring that even returning visitors are in for fresh scares. The unpredictable encounters keep the excitement high throughout the night.
2. Themed Zombie Zones
Certain park areas adopt unique zombie themes—for example, cyberpunk-inspired undead or carnival-style ghouls. These themes change yearly, offering guests variety and making each Halloween at USJ unique. They also serve as photo-worthy experiences for those brave enough to get close.
3. Stage Shows and Dance Performances
For those who prefer watching scares from a distance, choreographed stage shows offer a mix of dance, music, and horror elements. These performances highlight the park’s entertainment roots while maintaining the spooky Halloween vibe. They’re a great option for families or guests who want thrills without jump scares.
Special Horror Rides at USJ Halloween
Several of Universal Studios Japan’s most popular rides receive limited-time overlays during Halloween. These horror-themed versions give even long-time fans brand-new thrills, turning daytime favorites into terrifying night experiences.
1. Space Fantasy: The Ride – Black Hole Horror Version
Normally a colorful indoor coaster, this attraction transforms into a pitch-black nightmare during Halloween. Sudden bursts of light, eerie sound effects, and disorienting turns make it feel completely different from its usual form. The darkness amplifies every twist and drop, keeping riders guessing what comes next. Even seasoned thrill-seekers find themselves screaming from start to finish.
2. Hollywood Dream – The Ride: Backdrop Horror Version
This backward-facing roller coaster becomes even more terrifying with a haunting Halloween soundtrack and eerie audio effects. Riders are launched into the night sky of Osaka without seeing where they are headed, heightening the sense of unpredictability. The combination of speed, darkness, and horror audio design makes it one of the most intense seasonal rides. It’s a fan favorite that delivers pure adrenaline.
3. JAWS: Horror Encounter
The classic boat ride is reimagined with blood-red lighting, unsettling water effects, and additional actor-driven scares. The already tense experience of facing a massive shark becomes far more terrifying with Halloween enhancements. Guests can expect sudden movements, eerie atmospheres, and unpredictable moments that feel straight out of a horror movie. It’s a must for fans of classic theme-park scares.
Family-Friendly Halloween at Universal Studios Japan
Not everything at USJ is designed to terrify—daytime at the park is filled with colorful, family-friendly Halloween events. Children, parents, and those who prefer a lighter atmosphere will find plenty of festive fun throughout the season.
1. Trick-or-Treat Events for Kids
Kids can safely enjoy Halloween by collecting candy at designated trick-or-treat spots around the park. Staff members and characters in costumes make the experience cheerful and engaging. The program is designed to be fun without being scary, making it ideal for younger guests. Parents can relax knowing their children are celebrating in a safe and controlled environment.
2. Character Greetings and Parades
Beloved characters like the Minions, Snoopy, and Elmo appear in seasonal costumes, delighting fans of all ages. Families can enjoy lively parades, interactive shows, and countless photo opportunities. These events highlight the playful side of Halloween while keeping the energy high. For guests not into horror, these parades are the perfect way to soak in the holiday spirit.
3. Seasonal Food and Merchandise
USJ rolls out exclusive menus and merchandise just for the Halloween season. Pumpkin-flavored churros, glow-in-the-dark popcorn buckets, and monster-themed drinks make the dining experience part of the fun. Gift shops offer limited-edition apparel, plush toys, and spooky accessories featuring USJ’s most beloved characters. These items are perfect for souvenirs, especially for foreign visitors who want something unique to take home.
Tickets, Dates, and Prices for USJ Halloween 2025
Halloween is one of the busiest times at USJ, so planning ahead is essential.
Event Period and Hours
The Halloween season runs from early September to early November 2025. Halloween Horror Nights usually begin in the late afternoon and last until closing. On select days, extended hours allow for late-night thrills.
Ticket Types and Prices
- 1-Day Studio Pass: ¥8,600–¥9,800 depending on age and season.
- Halloween Horror Nights Passes: Required for premium haunted houses or fast entry. Prices typically start at ¥3,000–¥6,000 in addition to the Studio Pass.
- Express Passes: Strongly recommended for skipping lines at haunted houses and major rides.
Tickets can be purchased on the official USJ website or through authorized resellers. Advance booking is highly recommended as popular Halloween dates often sell out.
Costume Rules and Safety Guidelines in USJ Halloween 2025
Dressing up is part of the fun, but USJ enforces specific rules to keep the park safe and enjoyable.
Costume Guidelines
- Costumes should not block vision or movement (avoid oversized props or full-face masks).
- Weapons, sharp objects, and realistic firearms are prohibited.
- Scary makeup is allowed but must not prevent identification.
Staff patrol the park to check costumes and ensure safety. If your outfit breaks the rules, you may be asked to adjust or change before entering.
Tips for Foreign Visitors to Enjoy USJ Halloween 2025
Visiting USJ during Halloween is exciting, but the crowds and long lines can be overwhelming. With a little preparation, you can make the most of your visit.
Arrive Early and Plan Ahead
Arriving at opening gives you the best chance to enjoy top rides before lines grow. Study the park map and event schedule in advance to prioritize must-see attractions.
Use Express Passes Strategically
If haunted houses are a priority, invest in an Express Pass. Choose the one that covers your favorite attractions for maximum value.
Take Breaks and Explore Food
The energy of Halloween nights can be intense. Schedule rest time in quieter zones and don’t miss seasonal food stalls, which are an essential part of the experience.
Capture the Atmosphere
Photography is allowed in most areas (though restricted inside haunted houses). Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the incredible decorations, parades, and character greetings.
Extra Tips for Foreigners
- Language: Many signs include English, and staff often provide basic English support.
- Food Preferences: Vegetarian and allergy-friendly options are available—ask staff or check menus carefully.
- Payment: Cashless payments (credit cards, IC cards, PayPay) are widely accepted.
Final Thoughts: Why USJ Halloween 2025 Is a Must-See
Halloween at Universal Studios Japan is more than just an event—it’s a full-scale production blending horror, entertainment, and cultural fun. Whether you’re braving haunted houses, enjoying family parades, or indulging in limited-edition treats, there’s something for everyone.
For foreigners in Japan or visitors arriving during autumn, USJ Halloween 2025 offers an unforgettable chance to experience Japanese creativity at world-class scale. With good planning, respect for costume rules, and a sense of adventure, you’ll create memories that last long after the scares fade.
