Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a popular destination for many vegans with Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter World.
You may be wondering whether it’s possible to eat inside the park. Although it may not be the most vegan friendly place, there are some decent vegan options.
In the article, let me show you my favourite meal I had in Universal Studios Japan, and all the other options and where to find them.
Osaka Travel Information For Vegans
Tips When Visiting Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan is one of the busiest theme parks in the whole world, and you really feel it when you are in the park. Popular rides like Mario Kart or Flight of the Hippogriff often have wait time close to 3 hours. Even attractions that are targeted towards kids have wait time over 60 minutes. Click here to check the ticket price.
If you are going, I'd recommend spending a bit extra to get the Express Pass 7 which includes fast pass for the most popular rides in the park. It cuts the wait time to about 10-15 minutes per ride. You also don't need to do extra work to secure the Timed Entry Ticket for Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You just need to show your QR code when you visit those areas.
If you are planning to get the express pass, make sure to buy it in advance as there's only a limited number available for each day.
Restaurants could be equally busy. I'd recommend eating during off-peak hours like 2-4pm to have a better experience.
Where To Stay In Osaka
For my Osaka trip, I stayed in Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba, which is a modern hotel that's only about 25 minutes to Universal Studios Japan. Because of the location, it's also in walking distance from many vegan friendly cafes and restaurants.
Internet & Data
For my trip, I used Airalo for mobile data. It’s one of the cheapest options in the market and the reception is great throughout my trip. With some light scrolling on social media, checking maps and translating Japanese, I used about 1gb of data per day. And most coffee shops and shopping centres have free wifi as well.
My Recommended Vegan Option In Universal Studios Japan
While vegan options are rather limited at Universal Studios Japan, SAIDO stands out as a great choice for vegans visiting the park, if you don't mind paying a bit extra.
It’s located in the New York Area and provide a full service dining experience.
I had the Stylish Sushi Meal at Saido which costs 3,700 yen. In the set, you get 12 small dishes with a great variety of flavours and textures to mix and match into your own DIY sushi rolls. It also comes with a bowl of tri-colour somen noodles, and unlimited rice and nori sheets to roll your sushi.
Other than the delicious food, I also love the overall dining experience and exceptional service. The staff is attentive and friendly, and will even offer to take photos for you with the food and escort you to the lift after you pay, bowing until the lift doors close. The restaurant is also a lot more relaxing than the park, making SAIDO a great place to escape the crowd and recharge despite the higher price tag.
Other Vegan Options In The Park
1. Vegetable Irish Stew (2500 yen) from Three Broomsticks in Harry Potter World:
2. Vegetables Marinara Pizza (2700 yen) from Azzurra di Capri in New York Area:
3. Yoshi's Favorite Fruit & Veggie Salad (1400 yen) from Kinopio's Cafe in Super Nintendo World:
4. Grilled salad and fruit cocktail (1800 yen) from Park Side Grill in New York Area.
5. Falafel with tomato salsa (1000 yen ) from Finnegan's Bar & Grill in New York Area.
6. Salad with mixed berries (800 yen) from Beverly Hills Boulangerie in Hollywood Area.
What’s Else To Eat In Osaka
After knowing what to eat in Universal Studios Japan, also check out this Vegan Osaka Guide for some of my favourite cafes and restaurants!
