Donkey Kong theme park unveils entrance and welcomes first guests

Universal Studios Japan officially unveiled the entrance to its Donkey Kong Country area on Wednesday, and allowed the first invited guests to experience the Super Nintendo World expansion.

Donkey Kong Country – which is also due to open in Florida, USA next year – officially welcomes the public in Osaka, Japan from December 11, 2024. However, this week USJ kicked off a pre-opening period, during which some of its highest-tier annual pass holders are allowed to visit early.

At a press event on Wednesday, attended by VGC, Universal Studios Japan unveiled Donkey Kong Country’s entrance for the first time. Previously, the tunnel entry was behind a covered corner of Super Nintendo World, but it’s now possible for visitors to see the DKC signage and get a glimpse of the area beyond.

With interactive attractions, a food vendor, store, and ride, Donkey Kong Country expands the size of the existing Super Nintendo World by 70%.

DKC’s main attraction is its roller coaster based on the games’ mine cart rides. The coaster’s cars are elevated and placed over a fake track, designed to make it look like the riders are jumping over gaps and breaks in the track.

There’s also a new store themed on Funky Kong, and a bongos mini-game. Like the Mario area, DKC will also feature interactive elements and themed merchandise and food.

Earlier this year, Universal confirmed that its upcoming Universal Epic Universe park, which opens in Orlando in summer 2025, will feature a Super Nintendo World area, including the Donkey Kong Country expansion.