Universal Studios Japan is gearing up to mark a major milestone for one of its most beloved themed lands, as Super Nintendo World celebrates its fifth anniversary with a year-long celebration packed with fresh experiences, special décor, exclusive character moments and new merchandise and food offerings for fans from across the globe.
The anniversary festivities will begin on 18th March 2026 and run through until 11th January 2027, giving guests ample opportunity to dive into enhanced adventures across this vibrant, interactive world inspired by Nintendo’s iconic characters and game worlds.
At the heart of the celebration is a bold visual transformation as you enter Super Nintendo World. A towering decoration fashioned like a giant Super Star — that gleaming, power-up item from the games — will mark the entrance and set the tone for a year of celebration. Throughout the land, fans will find whimsical scenic touches and themed displays that pull them deeper into the playful spirit of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and their friends.
Character interactions have always been a highlight at Super Nintendo World, and the anniversary adds new twists to those experiences. Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad will be returning for special appearances, while the beloved dinosaur companion Yoshi will make limited-time greeting appearances, giving fans an extra reason to stop and snap photos with the colourful character. Guests who are wearing Nintendo Power-Up Bands can unlock a unique greeting experience with Yoshi and other characters, adding an interactive layer to the meet-and-greet moments.
There’s also a scavenger hunt waiting for explorers inside Super Nintendo World. Inspired by the Super Star, visitors can follow clues and collect items hidden throughout the land, bringing a playful sense of discovery that mirrors the thrill of the video games themselves.
Beyond the immersive environment and character fun, the anniversary introduces limited-edition food items and merchandise celebrating five years of Super Nintendo World (specific details will be revealed closer to the launch). Themed treats and keepsakes will let visitors take home a bit of the anniversary magic, from apparel and collectibles to playful souvenirs that tap into both nostalgia and new memories made in the park.
Since its original opening in March 2021, Super Nintendo World has been a standout at Universal Studios Japan, drawing fans for its bold integration of beloved Nintendo franchises into a fully realised physical space where video game fantasies come to life. The upcoming anniversary celebration looks to build on that legacy, offering both loyal guests and newcomers something fresh and exciting to enjoy throughout 2026 and into the start of 2027.
With all of this in mind, the fifth anniversary of Super Nintendo World promises to be not just a celebration of a theme park land, but a joyful tribute to the enduring legacy of Nintendo’s characters and the sense of playful wonder they inspire.