On January 18th, 2019, Universal Studios Japan opened up its first slew of attractions for Universal Cool Japan 2019 (Universal Studios Japan's collaborative effort to promote Japanese entertainment and pop culture around the world with big time attractions). This marks Universal Cool Japan's fifth anniversary, and we had the opportunity to visit and experience their new campaign which will let park guests traverse the worlds of Detective Conan, Lupin the Third, Sailor Moon, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Godzilla, and Attack on Titan!

The attractions based on Japanese entertainment celebrated around the globe will be divided into Spring and Summer rotations at the Osaka-located amusement park, and while USJ has featured anime themed cafes and attractions before, this year's offering promises to be on the largest scale yet.

A massive and festive opening ceremony saw singer and actor Win Morisaki (who played the role of Daito in Ready Player One) guide a crowd of hundreds as they danced to the theme songs of each of the featured popular titles, punctuated by striking a pose and reciting a famous quote from each as well.

As for the actual attractions, Lupin the Third and Detective Conan-themed attractions and food are currently open, slated to run from January 18th to June 23rd, with Attack on Titan, Sailor Moon, and Godzilla vs. Evangelion opening from May 31st to August 2nd.

Fans of Lupin the Third can follow the escapades of the world's greatest thief by boarding “Lupin the Third Car Chase XR Ride”, a thrilling roller coaster using XR technology to fully immerse you in a car chase with Lupin and his crew as they make a getaway after looting treasure from National Museum of Fortunia. Guests wear googles that make you feel as if you're flying through the world of the Lupin anime while adding an extra kick to gravitational sensations.

Guests can also visit the Ristorante Amore, where they can dine on anime-inspired dishes such as Lupin's beloved meatball spaghetti and meet the world famous thief. Outside the attraction itself you can also try the Lupin the Third Popcorn Bucket, or the Fujiko Chocolate Rose Churritos as we did.

Detective Conan offers three separate attractions (called Detective Conan: The World) that are sure to have fans of the unmatched detective feel as if they're working a case at USJ. “Detective Conan: The Escape” is an escape room game where guests work in teams searching for interactive clues and navigating traps in a mansion (with use of a multi-language equipped tablet) while on the search for a valuable jewel and the phantom thief, Kaito Kid.

There's also a “Detective Conan: Mystery Challenge”, which has you solve a case in a scavenger hunt around the park, and the “Detective Conan Mystery Restaurant” that combines food and mystery for a uniquely Detective Conan dining experience.

Of course, loads of awesome merchandise and food for all featured series is available throughout the park as well. Attack on Titan and Godzilla vs. Evangelion details are expected to be released as their opening dates draw closer, but if you're an anime fan traveling in Japan, USJ is offering something for everyone this year.