Universal Quietly Reopens Entire Long-Shuttered Land After Half a Decade

Even in a landscape dominated by Minions, monsters, and Mario, one familiar beagle is making headlines again.

Universal Studios Japan has quietly pulled off something unexpected this week: it reopened an entire themed land that had sat largely dormant since the pandemic. While major attention has gone to bigger expansions—like the flashy debut of Epic Universe in Orlando or the continued rollout of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD—Osaka’s park has revived a childhood favorite with a strategic upgrade and a touch of nostalgia.

For Universal Studios Japan, which has steadily climbed the ranks as one of the most-visited theme parks worldwide, the move underscores its ambition to be more than a franchise-forward juggernaut. Like its competitors in Tokyo, it’s now catering to multiple generations of fans. And it’s betting that Peanuts, the enduring American comic strip turned global brand, still has power to pull in crowds.

Snoopy Studios Returns With a Twist

Snoopy Studios, nestled inside Universal Wonderland, has officially reopened after years of limited access and pandemic-era closures. Once a staple for younger visitors, the land now welcomes guests with a partial redesign and an all-new signature attraction.

“Director Snoopy’s movie studio has been upgraded!” Universal Studios Japan wrote on its website. “Venture farther and farther into the comical yet heartwarming world of Peanuts by going for a thrilling ride inspired by the Flying Ace.”

At the center of the reboot is Snoopy’s Flying Ace Adventure, an indoor coaster reimagined from the former Snoopy’s Great Race. Riders climb aboard a red-roofed doghouse and take flight in pursuit of the Red Baron—a tribute to Snoopy’s famed alter ego. “It’s a small adventure that’s sure to make a very big impression,” Universal promises.

Beyond the ride, the land features an expanded Beagle Scout-themed play area and a recreation of Charlie Brown’s house. It’s part of the Super Snoopy Fiesta, a limited-time celebration marking 75 years since Charles Schulz introduced the world to his famous beagle.

Running through December 31, 2025, the event also includes commemorative merchandise, Peanuts-themed snacks, and interactive zones.

Bigger Crowds, Bigger Plans

Snoopy’s return arrives as Universal Studios Japan continues to cement its position as one of the world’s most in-demand theme parks. In 2023, it surpassed Tokyo Disneyland in attendance—a rare feat—and has become a bucket-list stop for tourists from across Asia and beyond.

Unlike its smaller sibling in Singapore, the Osaka park is sprawling and packed with exclusive content. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD opened here first and is home to not only Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure, but also Mine Cart Madness—a wild, high-tech Donkey Kong coaster that has since been replicated at Epic Universe in Orlando.

There’s also The Flying Dinosaur, a suspended Jurassic Park coaster that’s long ranked as one of the park’s most intense rides. And of course, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, with Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey inside Hogwarts Castle, remains a major draw. Starting this fall, guests will once again be able to tour the castle without needing to ride the attraction.

With the park’s 25th anniversary on the horizon in 2026, more additions are rumored to be in development. “We will develop in accordance with the market,” said new park executive Taku Murayama in June, hinting at continued growth to meet global demand.

Snoopy Studios may not come with the fanfare of a new blockbuster land, but for longtime fans—and those introducing their children to a beloved classic—it marks a welcome comeback. And at a park where crowds are growing and space is at a premium, its quiet return may prove to be one of the year’s most meaningful moves.

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