Flight Times, Costs & Transit Tips from Major American Cities
🇯🇵 Where is USJ?
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is located in Osaka, the second-largest city in Japan.
The nearest airport is Kansai International Airport (KIX), and the theme park is easily accessible from there by train in about 1 hour.
🛫 Step 1: Fly to Kansai International Airport (KIX – Osaka)
Here are estimated nonstop & 1-stop flights to KIX from major U.S. cities:
| City | Flight Time | Airlines (Example) | Avg. Round-Trip Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 11–13 hrs | ANA, JAL, Singapore Airlines | $900 – $1,200 |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 11–13 hrs | United, JAL, ANA | $950 – $1,300 |
| New York (JFK/EWR) | 14–16 hrs (1-stop) | ANA (via Tokyo), American (via Dallas) | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| Chicago (ORD) | 13–15 hrs (1-stop) | JAL, ANA, United | $1,050 – $1,400 |
| Dallas (DFW) | 13–15 hrs (1-stop) | American, JAL | $1,000 – $1,400 |
| Seattle (SEA) | 11–13 hrs | ANA, Singapore Airlines | $950 – $1,250 |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 15–17 hrs (1-stop) | Delta, American (via Tokyo/Dallas) | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| Honolulu (HNL) | 9 hrs | JAL, ANA | $700 – $1,000 |
💡 Tip: Direct flights are available from LAX, SFO, HNL, and some connect via Tokyo (NRT/HND) or other Asian hubs like Seoul or Taipei.
🛬 Step 2: Get from Kansai Airport (KIX) to USJ
| Method | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 JR Train | ~1 hour | ¥1,200 | Take JR Kansai Airport Rapid → transfer at Nishikujo Station → JR Yumesaki Line to Universal City |
| 🚌 Airport Limousine Bus | ~1.5 hrs | ¥1,600 | Direct to Universal City area hotels (not always frequent) |
| 🚖 Taxi / Uber | ~50 min | ¥18,000–¥22,000 | Most expensive but direct and fast |
🎫 IC cards like ICOCA or Suica are accepted on trains and subways.
🏨 Where to Stay
Stay near Universal City Station for max convenience.
Check hotels like:
- Hotel Universal Port
- Park Front Hotel
- Hotel Keihan Universal Tower
👉 See our USJ Hotel Guide for detailed reviews and prices.
🧳 Entry & Travel Tips for Americans
- 🇺🇸 U.S. citizens do NOT need a visa for stays under 90 days
- 💵 1 USD ≈ ~150 JPY (as of 2025 – check current rates)
- 📱 Rent a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi at the airport
- 💳 Credit cards accepted in most hotels and major shops
- 🌐 Download the USJ App before arrival (available in English)
🎢 Final Travel Example:
From LAX to USJ in 1 Day
- 🛫 Flight: LAX → KIX (11.5 hours)
- 🛬 Arrival at KIX: 4:30 PM Japan Time
- 🚆 Train: KIX → Universal City (~1 hr)
- 🏨 Check-in: Hotel at 6:00 PM
- 🎟️ Visit USJ next morning – fresh and ready!
✨ Summary
Getting to Universal Studios Japan from the U.S. is easier than you think!
With direct or one-stop flights to Osaka, smooth airport-to-park transit, and English-friendly hotels nearby, it’s the perfect adventure for American travelers.