More Universal Theme Parks Beginning to Reopen

by · June 18, 2020

Following the reopening of Univeral Orlando Resort theme parks earlier this month, other Universal properties across the world are beginning to open their doors to guests.

Universal Studios Japan, which has been closed since February due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be reopening for certain eligible visitors on June 19. According to the theme park’s website, the Japanese government has restricted who can visit the park to “Kansai residents with any kind of studio pass,” as well as annual pass holders, even if they live outside the area. There is no date yet for when these restrictions are expected to be lifted.

A video posted to the theme park’s website provides information about what guests can expect. Similar to the recently opened Universal Orlando, visitors are required to observe social distancing and wear masks while in the parks. There will also be temperature checks when entering the park and hand sanitizer available at the entrances to shops and restaurants. Shortly after entering the park, all guests will have to register with the Osaka COVID-19 Tracing System.

 

 

Universal Studios Hollywood is also starting to welcome back guests. CityWalk is currently open for limited operations with reduced opening hours of 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

 

 

Guests are required to wear face masks (except when in dedicated eating areas), temperature checks are taken on entry, and social distancing will be in place with floor markings to remind parties of guests to stand 6 feet apart. Throughout CityWalk, cleaning procedures have been stepped up, particularly for high-touch areas, and guests will be required to use hand sanitizer at certain locations.

 

 

There is no official word yet from Universal Studios Hollywood on when the theme park will reopen for guests, although the California location appears to be following a similar reopening model to the one executed by Universal Orlando Resort. This could mean that guests should expect the theme park to open soon, something that is currently supported by reports from USA Today and the calendar on the Universal Studios Hollywood website.

Both of these sources suggest that the reopening date could be as soon as July 1, with USA Today reporting that the head of Universal Studios Hollywood approached Los Angeles County and asked for workers to be allowed to return to work on this date. The calendar currently suggests that the park will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., but if the park is following a model similar to the Orlando properties, then the opening times may be restricted.

It is expected that when the park eventually opens, the measures put in place for guest and Team Member safety will be similar to those in place at Universal Orlando Resort.

How do you feel about the reopening of Universal theme parks? Are you willing to return or thinking about postponing your visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?