Universal’s global footprint is getting bigger—and not just in the ways fans expected.
Fresh off the launch of Epic Universe in Orlando, a multi-billion-dollar venture years in the making, the company is once again making headlines. This time, however, it’s not a new theme park drawing attention, but a smaller, more calculated move in Osaka.
Universal Studios Japan has confirmed it will open a major addition to Minion Park on July 11.
The announcement arrived with little fanfare compared to other expansions, but the project is anything but minor. The update includes an interactive attraction, new themed food, and a sharp increase in retail offerings—all designed around the ever-lucrative Despicable Me franchise.
Universal Expands Minion Park in Japan
“Villain-Con—the biggest gathering of villains anywhere—has arrived at USJ and Minion Park is now bigger and badder!” Universal writes on its website. “Come experience Illumination’s Minions in an all-new way while also enjoying Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Freeze Ray Sliders.”
“For the first time ever, blast your way to supervillain stardom in the new Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction,” the statement continues. “Visit Evil Eats where mischief is always on the menu. Get the latest Villain-Con merch at Evil Stuff and more.”
This expansion, confirmed to increase the land’s footprint by 1.4 times, marks the first international installation of Villain-Con Minion Blast, which debuted at Universal Studios Florida in 2023. That version merged a moving walkway with screen-based gameplay, allowing guests to “blast” their way through a convention for supervillains.
The attraction’s arrival in Japan suggests Universal is banking on repeatable success with smaller-scale, high-engagement projects—especially those tied to globally popular franchises.
One of Many Expansions Across the Universal Portfolio
Universal Studios Japan has seen steady investment over the past several years. In 2021, it became home to the world’s first SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, anchored by Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure. The land has since inspired clones in Hollywood and, soon, in Orlando’s Epic Universe.
Minion Park is now undergoing its first major update since opening in 2017. The centerpiece ride, Minion Mayhem, also exists in Singapore, Beijing, and Florida.
Beyond Minions, Universal Studios Japan offers a robust mix of immersive experiences. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Forbidden Journey still draws long queues for its innovative ride system, while Flight of the Hippogriff remains a family-friendly entry point to the franchise.
Elsewhere in the park, The Flying Dinosaur delivers intense thrills, while the classic Jaws boat ride preserves a bit of Universal’s cinematic legacy. Attractions like Hollywood Dream – The Ride continue to offer replay value to both first-timers and returning guests.
Universal has not announced what’s next for Japan, but its rapid-fire rollout of new experiences across all properties—from Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in California to the upcoming replacement for Rip Ride Rockit in Florida—suggests the company is far from finished.
Do you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan anytime soon?
