
Welcome to Japan
Everyone dreams of visiting Japan… and to be completely honest, we were no exception. After spending a whole month travelling across this incredible country, we can safely say it’s not just one of our favourite places in the world; it’s a destination full of surprises, hidden gems, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Along the way, we’ve picked up plenty of tips, insights, and stories that we just can’t keep to ourselves.
If you’re planning your first trip or just daydreaming about Japan from your screen, our blogs will give you a taste of the culture, scenery, and adventures that make this country so unforgettable.
Quick insights into Japan:
Capital City: Tokyo
Official Language: Japanese (English is common in tourist areas, but learning a few key phrases goes a long way!)
Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms, and Autumn (September to November) for colourful foliage and mild weather
Packing Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes are a must: trust us, you’ll be doing a lot of walking exploring temples, streets, and mountains!
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Best Hotels Near Universal Studios Japan with Easy Park Access
Looking for the best hotels near Universal Studios Japan in Osaka? Discover the top 4 with easy park access, perfect for families, couples, and luxury seekers.
Planning a trip to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka? Choosing the right hotel can make or break your park experience. As we mentioned in our blog, 7 Mistakes to Avoid at Universal Studios Japan, the best plan is to arrive around 6 am. Staying nearby means you can arrive before the crowds and skip long commutes.
The good news: there are plenty of great hotels right by the park. The tricky part? Too many options can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve narrowed it down to the top 4 hotels near Universal Studios Japan that offer the perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and value.
Stepping into the Oriental Hotel Universal City feels more like entering an art gallery than a hotel. The lobby walls are covered with vibrant movie-inspired artwork and photography, instantly setting the theme for your Universal adventure. Rooms are sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that often overlook Osaka’s cityscape or the bustle of Universal CityWalk.
What makes this hotel stand out is its family-friendly touches: connecting rooms, spacious layouts, and a buffet breakfast that even picky eaters love. Guests also love the “grab-and-go” convenience store inside the hotel, perfect for stocking up on snacks and drinks before hitting the park.
👨👩👧 Perfect for: Families and groups who want a fun, playful base without paying luxury prices
From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the bright Universal-themed décor, colourful artwork, playful lobby details, and even themed hallways that keep the excitement going beyond the rides.
The rooms continue the fun with cheerful, family-friendly designs that kids love, while still being practical for adults.
What makes this hotel extra convenient is the park ticket counter right in the lobby, so you can grab your passes on-site and skip the long queues at the entrance.
👨👩👧 Perfect for: Families with kids who want the theme park vibe to continue back at the hotel
3. The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan
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Distance to Universal Studios Japan: 1-minute walk
The Park Front Hotel is known for being the most upscale choice right outside the Universal Studios Japan gates. Its sleek, modern design is inspired by a “journey through time,” with different floors themed around various decades.
Rooms are spacious, bright, and designed with large windows that often give you sweeping views of Universal Studios Japan or Osaka Bay. Many guests say waking up to a park view is one of the highlights of their stay.
Beyond the rooms, the hotel offers a buffet restaurant with live cooking stations, a Starbucks in the lobby, and convenient family-friendly facilities. It strikes the perfect balance between luxury touches and theme-park fun.
👨👩👧 Perfect for: Couples and families looking for the most polished, upscale stay right by the park
Hotel Keihan Universal Tower stands out as the tallest hotel in the Universal City area, and its upper floors give you some of the best panoramic views over Osaka Bay and the city skyline. It feels more like a city hotel with resort-style perks, which makes it a great choice if you want a mix of park convenience and a little sophistication.
Rooms are comfortable and modern, with a good range of sizes. Higher-floor rooms are especially popular for their sweeping views, and many guests recommend booking these if you want a more memorable stay.
One of the hotel’s highlights is its natural hot spring spa on the 31st floor. After a long day of rides and queues, soaking in a Japanese onsen while looking out over the city is the perfect way to unwind, something no other Universal City hotel offers. The buffet restaurant and lounge also serve a wide mix of Japanese and Western dishes, making dining convenient for families.
👨👩👧 Perfect for: Couples and families who want relaxation and views after a busy park day
Which is the best hotel near Universal Studios Japan?
Staying near Universal Studios Japan is all about making the most of your time in the park. Whether you want a stylish stay with skyline views, a playful family-friendly hotel with themed rooms, or a luxury option with direct park views, the hotels on this list are the best picks for easy, stress-free access.
My top recommendation for most visitors is Oriental Hotel University City, it balances location, comfort, and value better than anywhere else in Universal City.
If you found this guide helpful, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below with your favourite hotel or any tips from your own Universal Studios Japan visit, and don’t forget to share this post with friends planning their trip, it might just help them snag the perfect stay.