(資料來源：Japan Endless Discovery)
Visiting Japan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its theme parks! Whether you’re a Universal Studios superfan, a Harry Potter enthusiast, or someone who dreams of feeding adorable animals, the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe) is truly a paradise for theme park lovers.
In this article, Orange Cat has compiled a list of the most popular and must-visit theme parks in Kansai. From the iconic Universal Studios Japan in Osaka to a variety of new, photo-worthy and relaxing parks, you’ll never have to wonder where to go when planning your Japan trip.
At the end of the article, we’ve also included suggested private car itineraries and transportation tips. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple on a honeymoon, or simply prefer a relaxed travel pace, you can explore all the theme parks in the most comfortable way possible.
Table of Contents
Three Cities, Six Theme Parks – The Best Routes, Itineraries, and Transportation Tips
The Kansai region—covering Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe—is one of the most popular “golden triangle” routes for independent travelers in Japan. Within these three cities, theme park options are diverse and plentiful. From the world-class Universal Studios Japan in Osaka to the family-friendly Kobe Animal Kingdom and the immersive Toei Kyoto Studio Park, each park offers unique experiences suited to different ages and interests.
With the most developed transport network in the region, Osaka is the ideal hub—whether you’re arriving via Kansai International Airport or taking the Shinkansen to other cities. We recommend staying in Osaka and planning your itinerary from there:
Kyoto theme parks and attractions – approx. 40–60 minutes by car
Kobe day trips – approx. 30 minutes by car
Osaka city theme parks (e.g., Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium) – accessible directly via subway or shuttle bus
By using Osaka as your base and linking the “Kyoto – Osaka – Kobe” route, private car travel in Japan not only saves transportation time but also allows you to adjust your itinerary flexibly for the smoothest journey.
Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Osaka: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi Shopping Street
Kobe: Kitano Ijinkan Street, Harborland, Mount Maya and Mount Rokko Night Views
Your itinerary can be freely combined. For example:
Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan, then head to Mount Maya at sunset for the “million-dollar night view.”
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in the morning, then enjoy a Kobe beef dinner in the evening.
With a private car, you’re not bound by train routes or timetables. You can move seamlessly between theme parks and attractions, go wherever you like, and store your luggage in the car for easy travel—saving your energy for photos, food, and pure enjoyment.
(資料來源：Japan Endless Discovery)
Public transportation: Best for solo travelers who are familiar with Japan’s transit system and don’t mind a bit of hassle. You’ll need to handle transfers, carry your own luggage, and check train or bus timetables.
Private car service: Ideal for families with children, travelers with elderly companions, or those who prefer a relaxed pace. Enjoy direct, point-to-point transfers right to the entrance of each attraction, eliminating the stress of multiple transfers. On the return journey, you can rest comfortably in the car.
If you plan to visit multiple attractions in one day, or need to bring along strollers or large luggage, a private car saves both time and energy—making the most of every minute of your Japan trip without wasting a moment.
Theme park trips are perfect for families, couples, groups of friends, and first-time visitors to Japan. To get the best experience, avoid weekends and public holidays, and book tickets and express passes in advance.
Tips for avoiding crowds:
Choose to visit on weekdays whenever possible
Purchase tickets and express passes ahead of time
With a private car, you can arrive at the park early and be among the first to enter at opening, reducing wait times for popular rides
From the iconic Universal Studios Japan to ninja villages and animal parks – all kinds of fun await
The Kansai region offers a wide variety of theme parks, from world-famous attractions to relaxing, family-friendly destinations ideal for couples and those who enjoy a slower pace. Here are six of the most distinctive parks, so you can choose the best match for your interests and travel companions.
(1) Universal Studios Japan (USJ / Osaka)
Harry Potter’s Wizarding World and Super Nintendo World – the hottest photo spots
As one of Japan’s most iconic theme parks, Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit for any Kansai trip. The park brings blockbuster movies to life, with areas such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and Jurassic Park. In recent years, the hugely popular Super Nintendo World has become a major highlight, allowing guests to step into the world of Mario, take part in interactive games, and enjoy a fully immersive experience.
Recommended visit time: Full day
Best for: Movie fans, families, couples, groups of friends
Tip: Consider purchasing an express pass to skip long lines for popular rides
(資料來源：Japan Endless Discovery)
(2) Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka)
One of the largest aquariums in the world – a must-visit marine wonderland for families
Located in Osaka Bay, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is famous for its massive tanks and diverse marine life exhibits. Its signature Pacific Ocean tank, where whale sharks gracefully swim by, is an iconic photo spot. The aquarium is designed in a spiral layout, starting from the upper floors and gradually descending to the ground level, allowing visitors to observe marine life at various ocean depths. It’s an excellent destination for families with children.
Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours
Best for: Families, travelers with elderly companions, visitors seeking a relaxing experience
Suggested pairing: Combine with a visit to the Tempozan Ferris Wheel or nearby shopping and dining in the bay area
(資料來源：OASKA INFO)
(3) EXPOCITY & VS PARK (Osaka)
The perfect rainy-day option – indoor fun for all ages
EXPOCITY is a large multi-purpose complex located next to Osaka’s Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Within it, VS PARK is an indoor theme park that combines interactive games, physical challenges, and virtual reality experiences. Both adults and children can find activities to enjoy here, making it an excellent choice for rainy days or when you want to avoid outdoor attractions.
Recommended visit time: Half day to a full day (depending on activities)
Best for: Families, groups of friends, travelers who enjoy active experiences
Tip: Pair your visit with seasonal flower viewing or shopping at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
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(資料來源：EXPOCITY）
(4) Toei Kyoto Studio Park (Kyoto)
Step back into the Edo period and experience the world of ninjas and samurai
Toei Kyoto Studio Park is a unique theme park in Kyoto that combines real movie sets with interactive attractions. The park features a fully recreated Edo-period street and offers costume experiences where visitors can dress up as samurai, ninjas, or geisha. Live performances and interactive mystery-solving games further immerse guests in the atmosphere, making it feel like stepping into a historical drama.
Recommended visit time: Half day to a full day
Best for: Visitors interested in Japanese culture, history, or photography; families with children
Tip: Book your costume experience in advance to secure your preferred time slot
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(資料來源：東映太秦映畫村官網）
(5) Kyoto Aquarium
A family-friendly attraction in the city – compact yet warmly designed
Located in the heart of Kyoto, the Kyoto Aquarium is a perfect stop for families looking for a relaxing break between sightseeing spots. Although modest in size, the layout is well-organized, featuring charming penguins, sea lions, and even the rare platypus. An outdoor area allows visitors to observe wildlife up close, making it ideal for a leisurely half-day visit.
Recommended visit time: 1.5–2 hours
Best for: Families, independent travelers, visitors seeking a relaxed itinerary
Suggested pairing: Combine with the Kyoto Railway Museum or nearby Umekoji Park
(資料來源：Japan Endless Discovery)
(6) Kobe Animal Kingdom (Kobe)
Up-close encounters with adorable animals – fun both indoors and outdoors
Kobe Animal Kingdom is a hybrid attraction combining a greenhouse botanical garden with an open-style zoo. Its highlight is the chance to get up close and feed animals such as capybaras, alpacas, and meerkats. Popular shows include bird performances and the famous “capybara hot spring” in winter. It’s a favorite among family travelers, and with its extensive indoor areas, it’s also a great rainy-day option.
Recommended visit time: Half day to a full day
Best for: Families, couples, animal lovers, photography enthusiasts
Tip: The large indoor space makes it ideal as a backup plan for rainy weather
(資料來源：edamame info,OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE OF KOBE )
The theme parks in the Kansai region are spread across different cities, and using public transportation often requires multiple transfers and carrying luggage. Choosing a private car means direct drop-offs right at the park entrance, with the flexibility to adjust your itinerary based on the weather and your preferences. Below are two common private car itinerary plans, with approximate one-way travel times (from central Osaka), to help you plan your trip.
Mix theme parks with cultural sights for a relaxed, unhurried pace
Day 1: Osaka city highlights + Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (approx. 25–30 min)
Morning visit to Osaka Castle or shopping in Shinsaibashi, followed by an afternoon at Kaiyukan to see whale sharks and other marine life.
Day 2: Universal Studios Japan (approx. 25–35 min)
Full day enjoying The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and other popular attractions.
Day 3: Toei Kyoto Studio Park (approx. 60–70 min) or Kyoto Aquarium (approx. 50–60 min)
Morning ninja or samurai costume experience and shows, then an afternoon at Umekoji Park or shopping in Kawaramachi.
Highly recommended to use a private car on Days 1 and 3 for maximum flexibility—change plans anytime and go anywhere you like without hassle.
Cover the best of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe – iconic theme parks and city highlights
Day 1: Osaka city highlights + Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (approx. 25–30 min)
A light start, perfect for your arrival day.
Day 2: Universal Studios Japan (approx. 25–35 min)
Full-day fun at one of Japan’s most famous theme parks, returning to Osaka in the evening for dinner.
Day 3: Toei Kyoto Studio Park (approx. 60–70 min) + Kyoto city sightseeing
Immerse yourself in Edo-period streets and ninja performances in the morning, then visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion, or Kawaramachi in the afternoon.
Day 4: Kobe Animal Kingdom (approx. 60 min) + Kobe city highlights (Animal Kingdom to Harborland approx. 15–20 min)
Close encounters with capybaras and alpacas in the morning, then enjoy shopping, sea views, or Kobe beef in the afternoon. Return to Osaka or transfer directly to the airport.
In four days, you’ll explore all three major cities in Kansai. With a private car, there’s no need to check maps or wait for trains—spend your time on great food, beautiful photos, and pure theme park fun! Every minute in Japan is precious, and a direct, point-to-point ride means no transfers, no heavy luggage, and an easy journey through Kansai’s top attractions.
First time booking a private car in Japan? Choose Orange Cat for your ride!
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