USJ has revealed plans for its first-ever expansion of its site. It aims to open a new area by using part of land owned by the City of Osaka and entering into a long-term lease.
USJ in Konohana Ward, Osaka, is planning a major expansion of its site. The expansion is expected to use the former site of a Nippon Steel plant adjacent to the north side of USJ. The total area is approximately 60,000 square meters, of which approximately 30,000 square meters is owned by the City of Osaka. USJ, which operates the park, plans to enter into a long-term lease with the landowner and is expected to use the site to open new attractions and for other purposes. The City of Osaka has announced plans to enter into the lease agreement as early as 2028.
Since opening in 2001, USJ has experienced both periods of improving and declining attendance, but annual visitors have now reached approximately 16 million. In recent years, its performance has recovered following major investments, including approximately ¥45 billion in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and approximately ¥60 billion in Super Nintendo World. Attention is focused on whether the expansion can help increase visitor numbers.