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The Magical Creatures Encounter has permanently closed in Universal Studios Japan, as many fans will be unhappy to learn.
While more often than not, we at Disney Fanatic cover all Disney Parks-related news and happenings—occasionally, we do dip our toes into coverage of Disney’s competitors. Today, we’re talking about Universal. Universal is one of the most well-known companies and brands alongside Disney and, with its recent achievement, has proven itself to be a true competitor of the Mouse House.
San Francisco, Universal Studios Japan / Credit: Flickr
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The Magical Creatures Encounter Closes in Universal Studios Japan
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—based on the film series adapted from JK Rowling’s novels—is magical to go to anywhere in the world, be it at Universal’s Islands of Adventure in the Universal Orlando resort (i.e., Universal Studios Florida) or if it’s in Osaka, Japan at Universal Studios Japan. In Orlando, the flagship ride is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which exists within the replica of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Japan / Credit: Universal
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In Japan, guests can enjoy Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade, as well as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff. But there’s one attraction less at the theme park now.
Per the latest reports, the Magical Creatures Encounter is now permanently closed as of December 31, 2023, and is no longer listed on the Universal Studios Japan website starting in the new year.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD / Credit: Universal
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The Magical Creatures Encounter opened in March of last year and was a limited-time, special experience. It gave guests the opportunity to interact and enjoy time with four magical creatures from JK Rowling’s universe: Hippogriffs, Nifflers, baby dragons, and even a Pygmy Puff if you please.
Universal Studios Japan said in a press release, “Beloved magical creatures appear here and there throughout Hogsmeade…Interact with the magical creatures with care, as you create everlasting memories with them!”
While the closure itself isn’t a surprise since the Universal theme park announced it back in May 2023, it’s still disappointing for many a Harry Potter fan.
In the meanwhile, there are tons of other fantastic attractions to enjoy to keep reliving the magic of Harry Potter!
