Super Mario train to Super Nintendo World in Japan


The much-anticipated Super Nintendo World theme park at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) was due to open on 4th February 2021. Unfortunately, the park’s opening has been postponed for the 2nd time due to the worsening COVID-19 situation in Japan. 

However, the West Japan Railway Company (JR West) has given us something to smile about in the meantime – a new Super Mario train that will take you to Super Nintendo World at USJ.


New Super Mario-themed train at USJ


super mario train usj - official photo pr times
Image credit: PR Times

super mario train usj - side view pr times
Image credit: PR Times

On 27th January 2021, JR West released a new Super Mario train dressed in brilliant blue livery. The exterior design features familiar Super Mario characters such as Luigi, Bowser, and Princess Peach. 

However, unlike other themed trains in Japan which have special interiors, the Super Mario train’s interior looks like a typical Japanese train.

super mario train usj - side view
Image credit: @dstm_xxx

super mario train usj - side view with mushrooms
Image credit: @retroxdon

The train was originally scheduled to start running before 4th February 2021 in order to celebrate the opening of Super Nintendo World. Although the theme park’s opening has been delayed, JR West has decided to go ahead and roll out the train as planned. 

The company hopes that the train can bring a smile to people’s faces and drum up anticipation for Super Nintendo World’s opening.


Train brings you to Universal Studios Japan


super mario train usj - train at train station
Image credit: @koba9944100

The Super Mario train operates on the JR Yumesaki Line and the Osaka Loop Line. It will stop at Universal City Station, which is the nearest station to USJ.


Super Nintendo World’s opening delayed


super mario train usj - super nintendo world in usj
Image credit: PR Times

Super Nintendo World is Nintendo’s first theme park and its opening had already been postponed once, from mid-2020 to 4th February 2021. Because of the state of emergency in Osaka and other parts of Japan, the opening of Super Nintendo World has been delayed yet again. 

According to an official USJ press release, the new opening date for Super Nintendo World will be released once the state of emergency has been lifted.


New Super Mario train takes you to USJ


Although the opening of Super Nintendo World at USJ has been postponed, you can ride the new Super Mario train ahead of the opening of the theme park. If you do decide to check the train out, remember to maintain safe distancing and continue wearing masks when you’re out and about.

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Cover image adapted from: PR Times

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