Meet Magical Creatures at Universal Studios Japan This Spring

by · February 16, 2023

Aspiring Magizoologists will have a reason this spring to reach for their suitcases (bewitched with an Undetectable Extension Charm and otherwise). Magical creatures are coming to Universal Studios Japan.

The Osaka-based park, which has housed the Wizarding World of Harry Potter since 2014, recently announced an exciting opportunity for guests to experience four magical creatures featured in the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises at various places within the Hogsmeade section of the park. The encounters are scheduled to begin Friday, March 17.

 

 

On the performance stage, fans will be able to take part in a short “Hippogriff Magical Lesson,” in which proper etiquette will be stressed so as to avoid any Malfoy-style catastrophes. Depending on the park schedule, there will be up to ten such classes available per day. Jokesters patronizing Zonko’s Joke Shop will be able to meet a Pygmy Puff, widely considered to be one of the top five best magical pets, while those passing Hogsmeade Station may come across the top of Hagrid’s wish list, a baby dragon. Those wishing to make use of the magical mail system may want to take extra pain to secure their valuables since a Niffler will be searching parcels at the Owl Post.

Pierre Bohanna, the head prop maker for the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, weighed in on the newest park addition in a press release from Universal.

These creatures can be fussy, so when you meet them, I encourage you to watch the film first for tips on how to interact with them before you come to interact with them or before touching them.

This sounds like an excellent excuse for a rewatch marathon. How will you prepare for your magical creatures encounter?