When planning a Universal Studios Japan trip, most travelers focus on which hotel to book—
but the real secret is this:
👉 How much fun you can have around the hotel can upgrade your entire trip.
The USJ Bay Area (Universal City / Universal CityWalk Osaka) is packed with:
- Tons of dining options
- Souvenir shops open until late
- Trendy dessert spots
- Family-friendly entertainment and arcades
- A safe, lively atmosphere even at night
Whenever I stay near USJ, I always enjoy grabbing snacks, strolling around the area, and picking up souvenirs.
It becomes part of the best travel memories, not just something to do after the park.
This guide highlights three places I personally visited and recommend:
Gong cha, Takoyaki Park, and Strawberry Fetish.
🎢 Enjoy the Bay Area Before and After Your USJ Visit
One of the biggest perks of staying near Universal Studios Japan:
✔ You can enjoy the area before entering the park
✔ And relax or explore after coming back to the hotel
It’s perfect for:
- Killing time before check-in
- A casual evening stroll after a full day in the park
- Buying souvenirs right next to your hotel
- Grabbing dinner or snacks to eat in your room
Since everything is within walking distance, it’s ideal for families with kids, too.
🧋 Gong cha｜Reliable Bubble Tea to Refresh After the Park
After a long day at USJ, a cup of bubble tea hits the spot.
The Gong cha in Universal CityWalk is:
- Easy to access from any hotel
- Great for take-out
- Perfect for sipping while strolling or relaxing in your room
If you need a break or want a familiar taste, Gong cha is always a safe and delicious choice.
🐙 Takoyaki Park｜Try Osaka’s Iconic Street Food in One Place
No Osaka trip is complete without takoyaki!
Takoyaki Park (also called Osaka Takoyaki Museum) gathers several famous takoyaki shops, letting you:
- Taste different styles
- Find your favorite shop
- Eat inside—or take it back to your hotel
My personal favorite is Takoyaki Juhachiban.
Their soft, melty texture and flavorful sauce are unbeatable.
Enjoying hot takoyaki in your hotel room after a long day feels like a reward!
🍓 Strawberry Fetish｜The Viral Japanese Strawberry Candy
Strawberry candy (“ichigo ame”) has become incredibly popular in Japan, and you can try it right in Universal CityWalk.
At Strawberry Fetish, you’ll find:
- Fresh strawberries coated in crisp sugar
- Beautifully arranged skewers perfect for photos
- A sweet-and-tart flavor combo that tourists love
A fun dessert for both adults and kids—especially after dinner.
🏨 Benefits of Staying in the USJ Bay Area
Here’s why I always choose a hotel near Universal Studios Japan:
✔ Enjoy the area before and after visiting USJ
✔ Safe, bright streets at night
✔ Many kid-friendly spots (arcades, desserts, character shops)
✔ Easy take-out options—perfect for tired evenings
✔ Osaka-style food right outside your hotel
✔ Souvenir shopping is quick and convenient
My personal “night routine” after USJ is:
- Grab a Gong cha
- Pick up takoyaki
- Lay out the souvenirs in the hotel
- Finish the night with strawberry candy
It’s relaxing, fun, and feels like extending the USJ experience.
🧳 Recommended Course (Great for Families & Adults)
- Relax with a drink from Gong cha
- Try different flavors at Takoyaki Park
- Enjoy strawberry candy while strolling
- Grab light dinner and unwind at the hotel
▶︎Hotel Universal Port Vita Osaka Review｜Perfect Stay for Families Visiting Universal Studios Japan
🎉 Conclusion
If you’re visiting Universal Studios Japan,
the USJ Bay Area is more than just a place to stay—it’s part of the entertainment.
With great food, sweets, shopping, and safe nighttime walks,
even a one-night stay feels richer and more memorable.
Make the most of your USJ trip by exploring the hotel area, too—you’ll love how much fun awaits outside the park!
▶︎Check hotels near the Bay Area on Agoda
A popular Kyoto sweet!
KINEEL “Ruffle” – Box of 20 🎁✨
A new Osaka souvenir favorite!
Osaka-Limited “Happy Turn – Takoyaki Sauce Flavor” 🐙
