Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary with the exciting launch of the "Universal Cool Japan 2025" event, beginning January 24 and running through June 30. This special commemoration will showcase attractions inspired by popular Japanese anime and games, aiming to draw attention to local culture and provide unique experiences for visitors.
Among the highlights of the anniversary celebrations is the immersive experience based on Keigo Higashino's beloved 'Masquerade' series. This interactive mystery show invites audiences to engage directly with the storyline as they partake in the challenge of unmasking the culprit behind simulated murder threats during the event.
During the show, participants gather at what resembles the luxurious dining hall of the fictitious Hotel Cortesia. Here, they receive masquerade masks and are greeted with dramatic illusions—a far cry from the typical theme park attraction. The initial phase of the show spans approximately 70 minutes, with the remaining time dedicated to buffet dining, allowing attendees to savor Italian cuisine, including dishes such as boiled beef stew and chicken fricassée, as they discuss their hypotheses about the mystery.
"The show is constructed to encourage group collaboration; not every table can gather all necessary information alone, promoting interaction among participants as they conjecture about motives and alibis," noted actors involved the show. The clues provided during the evening lead guests to cast their votes on whom they believe the culprit might be, leading to different conclusions based on collective decisions.
This year's installment is part of the broader initiative known as 'Universal Cool Japan,' which has debuted since 2015 and aims to highlight the rich array of Japanese media. Previous attractions have honored popular series including 'Attack on Titan' and 'My Hero Academia,' effectively leveraging renowned titles to entice both local and foreign visitors during seasonal lulls.
"The 'Universal Cool Japan' events serve not just as entertainment but also reflect the growing interest and appreciation for Japanese content worldwide. With the increasingly global audience, our goal is to incorporate elements from various successful franchises, capturing both nostalgia and freshness, making it all the more appealing, especially during the quieter months of spring and early summer," said USJ officials during the presentation.
Looking forward, USJ’s Project Manager, Mizono Jelly, expressed aspirations for the future of the event: "Now we want to develop what we have learned for overseas parks." This statement indicates the company's commitment to replicable success through blending popular cultural elements with immersive attractions.
With the start of this much-anticipated anniversary celebration, USJ is poised to draw crowds who are eager to revisit their favorite stories and characters. The blending of culture, entertainment, and participatory theater offers something for every visitor, whether they are long-time fans or newcomers to the unique experiences offered at Universal Studios Japan.
By commemorizing its 10th anniversary with this noteworthy event, USJ intends to not only celebrate its own milestones but also to uplift and showcase the creativity and allure of Japan’s artistic exports, inviting everyone to join the festivities through exciting, firsthand experiences.