3 Limited-Time Attractions at Universal Studios Japan: Minions and Luffy Join the Water Party

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Universal Studios Japan has launched a major limited-time event this summer, featuring special guests such as Takuya Kimura, who recently visited Taiwan for a promotional shoot, and the newly released Minions. Additionally, the "Harry Potter Theme Park," which caused massive crowds in the Osaka area last year, is celebrating its one-year anniversary. This year, the facilities have been upgraded with even more advanced 3D visuals, delivering an unprecedented sense of immersion and creating unforgettable summer memories.

▲ Japanese Drama "HERO"Limited-Time Recreation at Universal Studios Japan (Photo / Cola Tourism)

The classic Japanese drama "HERO" is making a comeback at Universal Studios Japan. To coincide with the July release of "HERO 2015" in Japan, Universal Studios Japan is hosting the limited-time event "HERO at Universal Studios Japan" from July 3 to September 6. Visitors can experience the iconic St. George's Tavern bar used by the prosecutors and clerks from the show, meet the ever-resourceful bartender robot "Aruyo," and even try the show’s dream dish, "Octopus TACOS," which will be available for a limited time. Additionally, the park’s most popular roller coaster, "Hollywood Dream – The Ride," will feature a "HERO"-themed soundtrack. Limited-edition merchandise, including T-shirts, shopping bags, and tumblers co-branded with "HERO" and Universal Studios Japan, will also be on sale. Fans of the drama shouldn’t miss this summer event.

▲ The adorable Minions make their first appearance at the "Water Surprise Party" and sing random songs while splashing around. (Photo / Cola Tourism)

From July 3 to September 6, the highly popular "Water Surprise Party" gets an upgrade this summer. In addition to Hello Kitty, Snoopy, and Elmo, the super-popular new character Minions will join the fun, wielding water guns and adding to the splash fest. A variety of Minions-themed merchandise will also be available, with seasonal items rotating and selling out quickly.

▲ Luffy’s Ultimate Move Explodes in the "One Piece Water Battle Show." (Photo / Cola Tourism)

Also from July 3 to September 6, a limited-time event features Luffy unleashing his ultimate moves in a street performance. Can Luffy, Zoro, and Jinbei—disguised as stuffed toys using Jinbei’s ability—escape the heavily guarded Marine territory?... Get drenched in an incredible water battle between Luffy and the Navy, set in the real One Piece world.

Fan’s Easy Guide:
1. Dine in or take out the show’s dream dish, "Octopus TACOS," at the event location, "Park Side Grille," to receive a photo voucher for the bar. Sit at the recreated bar counter and meet the ever-resourceful bartender "Aruyo."

2. The "Studio Style In Pink" store in the Hollywood area has a dedicated "HERO" merchandise section. The popular "HERO is HERE" T-shirt sold out on the first day of release. The next restock date is unknown, so line up early before the store opens.

Cola Tourism reports that they have specially launched a limited-time combo package for the summer: a VIP-exclusive entry pass in collaboration with the Abeno HARUKAS Observatory, giving Harry Potter fans the chance to be among the first to enter the park and head straight to the Harry Potter Theme Park. There’s also a guaranteed Harry Potter reservation ticket and a set of five express passes to save time waiting in line, with additional chances to enjoy surprise events like the limited-time "Water Surprise Party" and "One Piece Water Battle Show."