HOME Kansai Osaka USJ, Nanko Port Hotel Kintetsu Universal City: A Family-Friendly Hotel in a Perfect Location Right Next to Universal Studios Japan (In-Depth Review)
Hotel Kintetsu Universal City: A Family-Friendly Hotel in a Perfect Location Right Next to Universal Studios Japan (In-Depth Review)

Hotel Kintetsu Universal City: A Family-Friendly Hotel in a Perfect Location Right Next to Universal Studios Japan (In-Depth Review)

Date published: 20 May 2025

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of Universal Studios Japan, Hotel Kintetsu Universal City is the place to stay.

With its colorful, playful interior, the hotel is packed with photo-worthy spots at every turn. From themed rooms featuring the beloved characters of Sesame Street to Studio View Rooms where you can catch glimpses of the park out the window, every room is filled with fun, creative touches. Ensuring the magic doesn't end when you leave the park, you can keep the dream going all night long.

In this article, a travel writer based in Osaka shares the highlights and hidden charms of this special hotel.

Table of Contents
  1. What Makes Hotel Kintetsu Universal City So Special
  2. Photo-Friendly Rooms Full of Fun and Joy
  3. Step Into a Magical World of Excitement!
  4. Helpful Hotel Services to Enhance Your Visit
  5. Savor a Delicious Buffet in a Fun Atmosphere
  6. Hotel Stay Q&A
  7. The Perfect Hotel for Universal Studios Fans

What Makes Hotel Kintetsu Universal City So Special

What Makes Hotel Kintetsu Universal City So Special

Located right in front of Universal Studios Japan, Hotel Kintetsu Universal City is one of the most popular official hotels near the park. Among the many hotels in the area, it really stands out with its unique presence and charm.

As you enter the hotel, you'll be greeted by Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Moppy from Sesame Street. Moppy is unique — she's a Japan-exclusive character created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Universal Studios Japan. You can only encounter her inside the park or at Hotel Kintetsu Universal City, making it an extra special experience for fans!

Moppy has a heart symbol on her left hand, representing 'connection,' and a star on her right hand, symbolizing 'dreams come true.' With her adorable appearance and uplifting message, she brings smiles to the faces of guests of all ages.

The hotel is filled with fun, photo-worthy spots you'll surely want to capture and share.

The spacious lobby and front desk area are bright, colorful, and full of playful energy. With American comic-style artwork decorating the walls, it feels like you've stepped right into a cartoon or anime world — perfect for snapping memorable pics.

Creative decorations can be found throughout the hotel, making every corner a photogenic backdrop. From the moment you arrive, the experience feels like part of the adventure, and the memories start right away.

As an official Universal Studios Japan hotel, guests also enjoy special perks, like being able to check real-time attraction wait times right in the lobby. You can even purchase Studio Passes (park admission tickets) exclusively as a hotel guest.

Hotel Kintetsu Universal City opened in 2001, the same year Universal Studios Japan first welcomed visitors. Ever since, it's been delivering the same sense of wonder and excitement as the park itself.

Another fun perk for hotel guests is the exclusive Sesame Street ticket holder, gifted to everyone who stays here. The design changes annually, so many repeat guests enjoy collecting a new one each year.

The latest version, released in April 2025, features the Sesame Street gang in a lively, dynamic design that looks like they're popping right out at you. It's a cheerful keepsake that adds even more joy to your stay — and your collection!

(Photo courtesy of Hotel Kintetsu Universal City)
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Kintetsu Universal City)

Accessing Hotel Kintetsu Universal City

Accessing Hotel Kintetsu Universal City

If you're using public transportation like trains or buses, the closest station is JR Universal City Station. As soon as you exit the ticket gate, you'll see the hotel right in front of you, just about a 2-minute walk away.

By Shinkansen (bullet train):
From JR Shin-Osaka Station to Osaka Station (via JR lines): about 5 minutes

From Osaka Station to Nishikujo Station (via JR Osaka Loop Line, inner loop): about 5 minutes

From Nishikujo Station to Universal City Station (via JR Yumesaki Line): about 5 minutes
From Kansai Airport:
From Kansai Airport Station to Nishikujo Station (via JR Kansai Airport Rapid Line): about 60 minutes

From Nishikujo Station to Universal City Station (via JR Yumesaki Line): about 5 minutes
From Itami Airport:
From Osaka Airport Station to Hotarugaike Station (via Osaka Monorail): about 3 minutes

From Hotarugaike Station to Osaka Umeda Station (via Hankyu Takarazuka Line): about 21 minutes

From Osaka Umeda Station, it's about a 5-minute walk to JR Osaka Station

From Osaka Station to Nishikujo Station (via JR Osaka Loop Line): about 5 minutes

From Nishikujo Station to Universal City Station (via JR Yumesaki Line): about 5 minutes

Photo-Friendly Rooms Full of Fun and Joy

Photo-Friendly Rooms Full of Fun and Joy

At Hotel Kintetsu Universal City, each floor features a different theme color inspired by the four seasons with four distinct room styles.

There's soft pink representing cherry blossoms in full bloom, vibrant green evoking fresh new leaves, warm orange reminiscent of autumn sunsets and colorful foliage, and clear blue like a bright, open winter sky.

These seasonal colors are paired with a fun, pop-art style inspired by American comics, filling the hotel with colorful, photo-worthy spots.

Each floor has its own theme color, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant colors of spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

The hotel's philosophy is all about keeping the magic of the park alive even after you step into your room, so the excitement doesn't stop once you leave Universal Studios behind.

In some rooms, when you lie down on the bed, you'll see cute illustrations of sheep on the ceiling for counting — a playful little touch that adds to the fun of your stay.

There are also Studio View Rooms where you can enjoy glimpses of the park.

Step Into a Magical World of Excitement!

Step Into a Magical World of Excitement!

At Hotel Kintetsu Universal City, there's a special floor themed around the beloved Sesame Street characters called the Universal Sesame Street Design Floor.

The moment you step off the elevator, you're greeted by a colorful Sesame Street world where you'll want to start snapping pictures right away.

The theme floor spans two levels, offering a unique experience where you can feel like you're spending time alongside your favorite Sesame Street friends.

The world of Sesame Street isn't just fun — it's full of important messages like showing kindness and compassion, and helping one another. This special floor lets you enjoy all that charm while creating exciting, memorable moments.

Spending time in this dream-filled space is sure to become an unforgettable part of your visit.

Rooms Where You Can Spend Time with Your Favorite Sesame Street Friends

Rooms Where You Can Spend Time with Your Favorite Sesame Street Friends

Moving on from the photogenic elevator area, you'll arrive at your room that brings the world of Sesame Street to life. The moment you open the door, you're greeted with playful touches that're sure to put a smile on your face.

For example, in the Sesame Street Pajama Party Room, you'll find a fun scene of pajama-clad Elmo and friends having a pillow fight! Plus, the beds come with pillows featuring the same design, making you feel like you're part of the the party!

In the Sesame Street Marching Band Room, you'll find lively illustrations of Elmo and friends playing instruments. There are also other special rooms like Elmo's Happy Room and Moppy's Lucky Room, each designed to fully immerse you in the world of Sesame Street. No matter which room you choose, an exciting experience awaits as you spending time with your favorite Sesame Street pals.

As a special perk for staying on the Universal Sesame Street Design Floor, each guest receives an clutch pouch (one per person, per stay). The design changes every year, making these exclusive items a perfect keepsake great for storing little essentials. You'll definitely want to show it off!

The new 2025 design features Big Bird, Oscar, and friends in a fun, pop-art style that's full of playful energy.

(Photo courtesy of Hotel Kintetsu Universal City)
(Photo courtesy of Hotel Kintetsu Universal City)

Each guest room also includes a Sesame Street amenity set.

Additionally, guests staying on the Sesame Street Concept Floor and in the higher-floor rooms receive a special skincare set, including medicated deep cleansing oil, mild lotion, foaming wash, and essential cream, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing stay.

Helpful Hotel Services to Enhance Your Visit

Helpful Hotel Services to Enhance Your Visit

The spacious front desk and lobby on the third floor offer brochures in English, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, and Korean, perfect for planning your sightseeing. Nearby, you'll also find children's amenities like nightwear available.

Behind the front desk, there's a vending machine area, and free baggage storage rooms are available on both the 1st and 3rd floors for use before or after check-in. On the first floor, you'll find a coin laundry.

The lobby provides a cozy space where you can relax and take a break during your adventures. Free Wi-Fi is also available, making it easy to stay connected and gather information throughout your stay.

Another highlight of Hotel Kintetsu Universal City is its warm, attentive staff, whose thoughtful service helps make your visit comfortable and enjoyable.

Savor a Delicious Buffet in a Fun Atmosphere

Savor a Delicious Buffet in a Fun Atmosphere

Located on the fourth floor, E-Poch is a buffet-style restaurant that's much more than just a place to eat — it's like a food theme park! With live kitchens where dishes are prepared right before your eyes, a wide variety of menu options, and colorful desserts, it's a spot where both guests of all ages can have a great time. And the lively, street-art-inspired pop decor creates a fun and energetic atmosphere for enjoying your meal.

When I visited in February, I got to experience the Winter Gourmet Festival Dinner Buffet. It was the perfect way to warm up during the chilly weather, with comforting dishes that hit the spot. I was especially impressed by the tender 'beef shabu-shabu' prepared fresh at the live kitchen.

The buffet also offers plenty of kid-friendly options, making it ideal for families. Plus, with a wide variety of desserts, anyone with a sweet tooth will definitely be satisfied.

One of the highlights of the dinner buffet at E-Poch is the exclusive 'One-Dish' service, where staff personally bring freshly prepared dishes right to your table. During my visit, the featured dish was beef tongue stew with truffle penne.

The beef tongue, slow-cooked in red wine, was incredibly tender and melted in my mouth. For dessert, there was also a 'Dessert & Fruit Assortment Plate' — a beautiful, colorful arrangement of cute cakes and vibrant fruits that looked like a piece of art.

Even though it's a buffet, this special service gives you the feeling of a fine dining course. The menu and presentation change with the seasons and events, so there's always something new to discover each time you visit.

Hotel Stay Q&A

Q: Are there staff members who can assist in foreign languages?
A: Yes, staff members can assist you in English. For other languages, we use translation apps to help communicate.
Q: Are there lockers available?
A: Yes, free lockers for guests are available on the 1st and 3rd floors. If your luggage doesn't fit due to size or quantity, our staff will be happy to assist you — just ask!
Q: Does the restaurant offer vegan or halal options?
A: Since it's a buffet, there are no specially prepared individual menus. However, allergen information is clearly displayed, so you can choose dishes accordingly.

The Perfect Hotel for Universal Studios Fans

Hotel Kintetsu Universal City lets you immerse yourself in the world of Universal Studios Japan. If you stay in one of the studio view rooms, you can enjoy a luxurious experience while taking in the park's scenery from morning until night.

The collaboration rooms featuring Sesame Street characters and the many photo spots scattered throughout the hotel add to its appeal. Surrounded by colorful, playful spaces, the excitement continues throughout your stay. It's the perfect hotel for anyone who wants to keep the magic of the park alive even after leaving.

Note: This information is accurate as of April 2025. Please check the official website for the latest updates.

TM and © 2025 Sesame Workshop
Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

Written by:
Tabiningen
Tabiningen

Writer

A hungry writer with a passion for deep diving into local legends, folklore, and historical secrets across Japan. Touring popular local eateries and retro cafes is my hobby. I share travel and gourmet information on "Yahoo News." After graduating from university, I moved to the United States, living in Illinois, Utah, and Oregon while traveling across the country and visiting national parks by rental car. Later, I worked in Singapore and traveled solo in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India before returning to Japan. My blog documenting these travels caught the attention of "Travel.jp," leading to a writing career. I've won awards including the Rookie of the Year and Annual Access No.1. Currently, as a freelance writer, I contribute articles to travel sites, news sites, and newspapers.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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