The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can ride Flight of the Hippogriff, buy wands to cast spells and sing along to Frog Choir shows. Height rules and dark scenes on Forbidden Journey may exclude or scare some younger children.
Positives:
- Immersive Theming: Every shop and street detail transports you to Hogsmeade Village, captivating both kids and adults.
- Kid-Friendly Rides: Attractions like the Hippogriff coaster offer mild thrills safe for younger children from 92 cm tall.
- Live Shows: Complimentary performances like Frog Choir engage children with music and interactive elements.
Challenges:
- Crowds Peak Midday: Lines grow longest between 11am and 2pm; plan rides first and shows or snacks later.
- Height Restrictions: Some rides require a minimum 92 cm height; check heights before queuing to avoid disappointment.
- Limited Seating: Dining spots in Three Broomsticks fill up early; arrive before mealtimes or use window seats.
What is The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter?
- A themed land within Universal Studios Japan that reproduces the magical world of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series
- A meticulously detailed setting anchored by the snow-capped village of Hogsmeade and the imposing silhouette of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
- An architectural reconstruction featuring cobblestone streets, period-style shops, and iconic structures drawn directly from the Harry Potter narratives
What is so special about The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter for with kids?
- Explore family-friendly rides like Flight of the Hippogriff.
- Join free magic shows and street performances.
- Cast spells with interactive wands bought at Ollivanders.
- Savor Butterbeer and colourful sweets at Honeydukes.
- Snap photos in Hogsmeade’s immersive snowy village.
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows a relaxed pace to ride, watch shows, explore shops and enjoy treats without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
Flight of the Hippogriff:
A gentle junior coaster with Hagrid’s bike props and Hogsmeade views.
Tip: Use the single-rider or child-switch line to reduce wait times if kids don't meet height requirements.
Ollivanders Wand Experience:
Free live show where the wand chooses its wizard in a magical ceremony.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure standing room; buy an interactive wand after the show to cast spells.
Interactive Wand Magic:
Cast real spells at marked bronze spots around Hogsmeade with a purchased wand.
Tip: Buy your wand at Ollivanders first to practice at nearby spell-casting stations before exploring further.
Frog Choir & Triwizard Spirit Rally:
Hourly plaza shows featuring music, acrobatics and magic demonstrations.
Tip: Check show times on the USJ app; arrive 10 minutes early for front-row spots that kids will love.
Butterbeer & Honeydukes Sweets:
Enjoy hot, cold or frozen Butterbeer and sample candy frogs or Every Flavour Beans.
Tip: Try frozen Butterbeer on warm days; split snacks among the family to taste more varieties.
Hogsmeade Photo Ops:
Capture family photos at the Hogwarts Express station, snow-covered rooftops and castle grounds.
Tip: Use early morning light for softer photos and fewer crowds near the station clock.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
- Book Timed Entry: Use the USJ app to reserve your Wizarding World timed-entry ticket to avoid entry waits.
- Early Arrival: Enter at park opening and head straight to popular attractions to enjoy shorter queues.
- Child-Switch System: Ask staff for a child-switch pass at Forbidden Journey so both parents can ride without re-queuing.
Reviews of The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
Sunni Wan
If you're a Harry Potter fan than this will not disappoint you at Universal Studios, Osaka. Although the wait to the ride was over an hour, the queue felt it was moving quite fast. The ride is very cool- won't disappoint you. I then left and came back at nighttime where it was just before dusk and made The Harry Potter set even more surreal. Went to the pub and tried the Butterscotch beer which wa...
Eber Shibin
Every Potter fan's must go place inside Universal Studios, Osaka and spend a solid 3 hrs doing pseudo-magic with super costly wands. I'll never ever know what the storied drink like Butterbeer would taste like, but whatever they gave us in the name of it was just mind blowingly insane, you could never stop asking for more. They've made super tech arrangements for visitors to buy surreal wands and ...
Simon “サイモン”
As a big fan, i really enjoyed the place. But ain’t gonna lie there is a lot of people. Main attraction (in the castle) is a bit fast but worth the shot. Village reproduction is amazing, when u walk into the shops you are like in the movie.
Benja “เบญจ” Sariwatta
Good time. Too many people. Get the express pass early, like months early. Standing in line is no fun. Good food. Professional staff. Lots of souvenirs. Tripods and selfie sticks are banned.
Amit G
An Unforgettable Magical Experience! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at USJ is absolutely enchanting! From the moment you walk through the gates of Hogsmeade, you’re transported straight into J.K. Rowling’s universe. The attention to detail is incredible—from the snow-covered rooftops to the moving portraits and the butterbeer that tastes just like you’d imagine. Exploring Hogwarts Castle was...
When is the best time to visit The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter (Osaka, Japan)?
In summer, grab frozen Butterbeer to cool off. In cooler months, warm up with hot Butterbeer by the castle. Check USJ’s event calendar for special night-time projection shows in winter.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult 1-day ticket (each) | JPY 8,400 |
| Child 1-day ticket (each) | JPY 5,400 |
| Interactive wand | JPY 5,500 |
| Butterbeer (each) | JPY 600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 33,700 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
Address: 2 Chome-1 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
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