Universal Studios Japan has been working overtime to garner theme park attendance since its recent reopening. Alas, it seems that it has proven a bit more difficult than anticipated. In an effort to help entice Annual Passholders to head on back to the parks, Universal Studios Japan cancels blackout dates, while adding benefits for VIP-level Passholders.

The blackout dates previously scheduled for August 2020 and September 2020 have been cancelled for Universal Studios Annual Passholders with the Annual Studio Pass. Mid-August 2020 and select dates of September 2020 are traditionally blocked out for intense travel dates, such as Obon and Silver Week.

In addition to this exciting schedule alteration, a bevvy of benefits will be added for Universal Studios Japan Annual Passholders who possess a VIP Annual Studio Pass, the highest tier of the annual pass. However, a bulk of local Universal Studios Japan Annual Passholders only hold tier passes. So, it will be interesting to learn what level of impact this adjustment may net. Regardless, it is nice to see Universal Studios Japan get intentional about their desire to increase park attendance.

Added Universal Studios Japan – VIP Annual Studio Pass Benefits

Universal Studios Japan has opened the sponsor lounge at The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man 4K3D to holders of VIP Annual Studio Passes through December 31st, 2020. This location was formerly occupied by Japan Airlines

Universal Studios Japan VIP-level Annual Passholders – Express Pass

VIP-level Passholders are entitled to one free Express Pass per visit for an attraction of their choice through December 31st, 2020. The eligible attractions are as follows:

  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
  • The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man 4K3D
  • Hollywood Dream: The Ride (Excluding Backdrop)
  • Jurassic Park: The Ride
  • JAWS

Passholders may pick up their free Express Pass at the VIP lounge.

Food & Merchandise Discounts

30% discount on food and merchandise is also now in effect for holders of the VIP-level pass through December 31st.

Price Cuts

Companion Studio Pass has been cut from ¥7800 ($73.64) to ¥6600 ($62.31) from September 1st through the end of the year.

Universal Studios Japan temporarily closed on February 29th, 2020 (due to COVID-19) and reopened on June 19th, 2020.

So, Universal Studios Japan cancels blackout dates for August and September… does that mean that we can expect such changes to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or Universal Studios Orlando?