Universal Studios Japan Plans $1.8 Billion Park Expansion

Universal Studios Japan plans a major expansion of its theme park footprint, marking the first time the venue has grown since opening in 2001. The operator intends to invest between 200 billion yen and 300 billion yen, approximately $1.26 billion to $1.88 billion, to capitalize on increasing overseas tourism.

The project will utilize a 60,000 square meter site adjacent to the current park, including a former Nippon Steel factory site to the north. The goal of the expansion is to increase annual attendance beyond 16 million visitors.

To secure the necessary land, the operator expects to sign a lease agreement with the Osaka municipal government around 2028 for city-owned portions of the site. A spokesperson for Universal Destinations & Experiences has not confirmed the reported expansion plans.