Image by LINS2333 from Pixabay
Nintendo agreed and partnered with the theme park operator Universal Studios Japan to make an immersive community with an emphasis on Super Mario - the plumber and Nintendo’s official mascot. The park was intended to open in July 2020 but due to an ongoing pandemic, it was moved in early 2021.
What to expect
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Grand opening of Super Nintendo World on February 4, 2021
A culmination of Super Mario and Nintendo characters, legendary worlds and guests. Attractions include Bowser and Peach’s castle, Mario Kart theme park ride, Koopa’s Challenge, Power-up bands that allows visitors to collect virtual coins, complete challenges and allow users’ smartphone to link to their smartphone app and track digital stamps, collect coins, track score and compete with other gamers.
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Immersive land of Super Mario, King Koopa and his minions
The aerial view of the theme park features castles, staircases, houses, King Koopa’s castle, Peach castle, mantel-like platforms, trees and walkthroughs reminiscent of the places and creatures (Koopalings, Goombas, Starman, Piranha Plants), Mario brother’s allies (Peach, Yoshi, Toad) - all found in the Super Mario Video game. There's a vast interior found in Bowser’s castle where you can find Bowser’s statue and real-life Mario kart aided by advanced technologies such as special effects, projection mapping and augmented reality.
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Yoshi’s adventure
Yoshi is a dinosaur companion or sidekick of Mario and Luigi. He welds powers such as grabbing distant objects and slowing descent on midjump. In this theme park, you’ll have a fun ride with Yoshi while navigating through Captain’s map to find 3 eggs.
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Themed cafe and merchandise store
Themed cafe comprises restaurants that offer Mario brothers-themed pancake sandwiches, Mustachioed fruit cream sodas and Super Mushroom drinks. Merchandises include pillows, mugs, caps and pouch designed with Super Mario symbols.
Possible iterations and plans
Universal Studios is also planning to open Super Mario-themed parks in Los Angeles, Orlando and Singapore in the next coming years.
How to get there
Use Japan Rail Pass to reach USJ which is 7 kilometres from Osaka. From Osaka Loop Line, take Osaka Loop Line to Nishikujo Station where you can transfer to Sakurajima Line which brings you to Universal-City Station. Travel time takes 13 minutes and the tram departs every 15 minutes.
Information, Contact and Access
Universal Studios Japan website:
Super Nintendo World virtual map:
https://super-nintendo-world.usj.co.jp/ja/jp/
Ticket info:
https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/tickets#StudioPass
Map:
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