Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is one of the most popular theme parks in the world, and it’s home to a variety of attractions based on popular movies, TV shows, and video games. One of the most popular areas of the park is Donkey Kong Country, which is themed after the classic Nintendo video game series.
Donkey Kong Country Attractions
Donkey Kong Country is home to a variety of attractions, including:
- Donkey Kong Ride: This roller coaster takes riders on a high-speed chase through the jungle, with plenty of twists, turns, and drops.
- Cranky’s Express: This family-friendly train ride takes riders through the jungle, with plenty of animatronics and interactive elements.
- Barrel Factory: This indoor play area is perfect for kids, with a variety of slides, climbing structures, and interactive games.
Dining and Shopping
Donkey Kong Country is also home to a variety of dining and shopping options, including:
- Donkey Kong Pizza: This restaurant serves up pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.
- Funky’s Banana Stand: This stand sells a variety of snacks and drinks, including bananas, of course.
- Donkey Kong Country Store: This store sells a variety of souvenirs, including plush toys, T-shirts, and other merchandise.
Tips for Visiting Donkey Kong Country
Here are a few tips for visiting Donkey Kong Country:
- Arrive early: Donkey Kong Country is one of the most popular areas of USJ, so it’s important to arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Purchase a Fast Pass: If you want to skip the lines, you can purchase a Fast Pass, which will give you access to a shorter line for each attraction.
- Bring sunscreen: Donkey Kong Country is mostly outdoors, so it’s important to bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Donkey Kong Country, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best way to get to Donkey Kong Country?
A: The best way to get to Donkey Kong Country is to take the train to Universal City Station. From there, you can take a short walk to the park.
Q: How much does it cost to enter Donkey Kong Country?
A: The cost of admission to Donkey Kong Country is included in the price of admission to Universal Studios Japan.
Q: What are the hours of operation for Donkey Kong Country?
A: Donkey Kong Country is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), colloquially known as the Super Nintendo or Super NES, is a 16-bit video game console released by Nintendo in 1990. It was the successor to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and competed against the Sega Genesis.
The SNES featured graphical improvements over the NES, with a wider color palette, higher resolution, and enhanced sound capabilities. It also introduced innovative features such as the Mode 7 graphics chip, which allowed for pseudo-3D effects.
The SNES had a vast catalog of games, including classic titles such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Donkey Kong Country, and Final Fantasy VI. Its iconic controller, featuring four buttons and shoulder buttons, became a standard for future consoles.
The SNES was a commercial success, selling over 49 million units worldwide. It is considered one of the greatest video game consoles of all time and remains highly sought after by collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Donkey Kong Country Merchandise at Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan offers a wide variety of Donkey Kong Country merchandise, including apparel, accessories, plush toys, and collectibles. Here are some highlights:
- Apparel: DK-themed clothing includes T-shirts, hats, hoodies, and swimwear.
- Accessories: Keychains, phone cases, wallets, and backpacks feature iconic characters like Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, and Cranky Kong.
- Plush Toys: Cuddle up with adorable plushies of your favorite Kongs and supporting characters like Dixie Kong and King K. Rool.
- Collectibles: Pin sets, figurines, and plush keychains offer unique keepsakes for collectors.
Shoppers can find Donkey Kong Country merchandise at various locations throughout the park, including the Super Nintendo World area, the Universal Emporium, and the Character Goods Shop.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System Donkey Kong Country
Overview:
Super Nintendo Entertainment System Donkey Kong Country is a side-scrolling platform video game released in 1994 for the SNES. Developed by Rare and published by Nintendo, it is the first game in the Donkey Kong Country series.
Gameplay:
Players control Donkey Kong and his nephew Diddy Kong through various tropical environments, collecting bananas and other items while avoiding enemies and obstacles. The game features lush pre-rendered graphics and a memorable soundtrack.
Features:
- Unique graphics: The game’s pre-rendered graphics pushed the limits of the SNES hardware, resulting in stunning visuals that set a new standard for platformers.
- Diverse gameplay: The game offers a variety of levels with different gameplay styles, including underwater sections, mine cart levels, and boss battles.
- Co-op multiplayer: Players can team up as Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, each with unique abilities, to navigate the game together.
- Memorable music: The game’s soundtrack is widely acclaimed, featuring catchy melodies and atmospheric tunes that enhance the gameplay experience.
Reception:
Donkey Kong Country was a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling games for the SNES. It is praised for its stunning graphics, engaging gameplay, and memorable soundtrack. The game has been re-released on multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Donkey Kong Country Super Nintendo World Universal Studios Japan
Donkey Kong Country Super Nintendo World is a themed land within Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, Japan. It opened on March 18, 2021, as part of the park’s Super Nintendo World expansion. The land is based on the Donkey Kong Country series of video games and features characters, environments, and attractions inspired by the franchise.
The land includes a variety of attractions, including the Donkey Kong dash roller coaster, which is a high-speed roller coaster that takes riders through the world of Donkey Kong Island. Other attractions include the Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown interactive shooting game, the Banana Swing ride, and the Pauline’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop.
Donkey Kong Country Super Nintendo World also features a variety of restaurants and merchandise shops. The food and beverage offerings include dishes inspired by the Donkey Kong Country games, such as bananas, coconuts, and jungle-themed snacks. The land also features a variety of merchandise, including plush toys, t-shirts, and other souvenirs.
Super Nintendo World Donkey Kong Country
Super Nintendo World Donkey Kong Country is an immersive theme park land inspired by the iconic Donkey Kong Country video game series. Visitors can navigate Donkey Kong’s jungle home, tackle thrilling roller coasters, and meet beloved characters like Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong. The land features:
- Donkey Kong Coaster: A high-speed roller coaster that races through obstacles and interacts with characters.
- Gorillas Don’t Believe Baloney!: A kart-like ride where visitors collect bananas while racing through the jungle.
- Island Bumper Boats: A bumper car experience in the shape of iconic Donkey Kong characters.
- Ropes Challenge: An obstacle course that tests visitors’ balance and agility.
- Banana Kingdom: A lush, interactive area where visitors can collect virtual bananas and engage with characters.
Super Nintendo World Donkey Kong Country offers an unforgettable experience for fans of the video game series and those seeking a thrilling and immersive adventure.
Donkey Kong Country Nintendo Switch Online
Donkey Kong Country is now available on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The classic platformer from 1994 brings back Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, and their adventure on Donkey Kong Island. The game features vibrant graphics, catchy music, and innovative gameplay.
Players control Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as they swing, jump, and collect bananas while avoiding enemies and obstacles. The game offers various levels with diverse environments, from lush jungles to snowy mountains. As players progress, they unlock new abilities and power-ups to enhance their gameplay experience.
Donkey Kong Country Nintendo Switch Online includes the original game mode along with a new Practice Mode, which provides challenges to improve skills. With online multiplayer, players can team up or compete with each other in cooperative and competitive modes. The game also offers rewind and slow-motion features to enhance accessibility and ease of play.
Donkey Kong Country Game & Watch
Donkey Kong Country Game & Watch is a handheld game console released by Nintendo in 2021. The console features three classic Donkey Kong games: Donkey Kong (1981), Donkey Kong Jr. (1982), and Donkey Kong Country (1994). The console also includes a variety of new features such as a rechargeable battery, a digital display, and a new Game & Watch mode.
The Donkey Kong Country Game & Watch received positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the console for its compact size, portability, and accurate emulation of the classic games. The console was also a commercial success, selling over a million units worldwide.
Overall, the Donkey Kong Country Game & Watch is a great handheld console for fans of retro games. The console is well-made, features a great selection of games, and is very portable.
Donkey Kong Country Arcade
Donkey Kong Country Arcade is a 3D platformer released for arcades in 1994. Developed by Nintendo’s Rareware studio, it features Donkey Kong as the protagonist, searching for his kidnapped companion Dixie Kong. The game is known for its vibrant graphics, challenging levels, and innovative use of 3D technology in an arcade setting. Players control Donkey Kong and use his signature moves, such as rolling and jumping, to navigate through various environments, including forests, factories, and underwater depths. Collecting bananas and other items grants power-ups and unlocks bonus levels. Donkey Kong Country Arcade offers a unique blend of classic platforming gameplay and 3D visuals, resulting in an engaging and immersive arcade experience.