Donkey Kong Country at Universal: The new area that stole the show from Mario

After the massive success of Super Nintendo World, the area based on Mario's world inside Universal Studios Japan, the two companies quickly rushed to expand the concept even further. Thus, the Donkey Kong Country area was born, inspired by the most famous ape in the video game universe. With the character's renewed popularity from his appearance in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the timing of the inauguration in December 2024 was very well calculated.

Welcome to the jungle: First impressions of DK Island

The overall impression of the Mario-based section is that we're transported to the Mushroom Kingdom, thanks to the attention given to every detail. Fortunately, the same care was dedicated to the Donkey Kong area, where we feel like we're inside DK Island, the island featured in several games in the series.

Mine Cart Madness: The roller coaster that might be better than Mario Kart

The region has only one main attraction, called Mine Cart Madness. It's a roller coaster that simulates the classic levels from the franchise's games, where a cart travels through a mine with winding tracks and enemies along the way, including parts that simulate the vehicle jumping from one broken track to another.

Despite being the only new attraction, it's very fun and well-executed. I'd venture to say it's even more thrilling than the Mario Kart-based one in the Mario zone. Among the three attractions inspired by Nintendo franchises, it's the most exciting, while not being extreme enough to discourage younger fans, and is recommended even for those who are afraid of roller coasters.

Beyond the tracks: Bongos, Power-Up Bands, and DK himself!

Besides the main attraction, the space itself offers other fun options. There's a bongo-playing game with the right rhythm for up to three people, and with the Power-Up Band (sold separately) connected to the Universal app on your phone, you can hunt for different items scattered throughout the park, including the classic letters that spell out the character's last name. Not to mention the mandatory store and kiosk packed with themed products and beverages, and Donkey Kong himself available at certain times for photo ops with guests!

The million banana question: Do I need a separate ticket?

Since the Super Nintendo World area is still very popular, there are days when entry is controlled by timed reservations, preventing visitors from entering whenever they want. One concern I had, and saw other people wondering about too, is whether access to Super Nintendo World also guaranteed entry to the Donkey Kong Country area.
The answer is yes; from the moment you enter Super Nintendo World, passage to Donkey Kong Country, located at the back of the section, can be done freely. As long as you don't leave Nintendo World itself, you can move between the Mario and Donkey Kong zones without restrictions.

Is it worth going back just for Donkey Kong?

If you're a Nintendo fan who has already visited Super Nintendo World on one of your trips to Japan and are wondering if it's worth returning for Donkey Kong Country, I say yes. The new area at Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit even for those who aren't particularly fans of the character.

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Official page: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/areas/super-nintendo-world/donkey-kong-country