The highly popular Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan opened on March 18, 2021. Today, March 18, 2026, it celebrates its fifth anniversary, and there was a special ceremony to celebrate.
Super Nintendo World’s 5th Anniversary Ceremony
Around 7:00 a.m. today, an anniversary ceremony was held at the entrance of Super Nintendo World, Super Star Plaza. The hugely popular group Naniwa Danshi, known for being big fans of the area, gathered together along with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and special invited guests to energetically celebrate the 5th anniversary.
Starting today through January 11, 2027, guests can enjoy a special year-long celebration where everyone can come together, feel united, and play like they’re “invincible.”
The ceremony began with scenes of Naniwa Danshi taking on popular attractions and activities inside Super Nintendo World. Like Mario and Luigi, they used their whole bodies to complete challenges, working together energetically—these moments were shown on special monitors at the venue.
Joichiro Fujiwara and Kazuya Ohashi experienced “Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge,” and
Kyohei Takahashi, Ryusei Onishi, and Kensei Nagao had fun with “Bob-omb Puzzle.” Shunsuke Michieda and Daigo Nishihata also teamed up for “Thwomp Panel Flip.”
The plaza was decorated with a giant star-themed anniversary cake and special decorations inspired by the “Super Star” from Mario games. Mario, Luigi, and all seven members of Naniwa Danshi then appeared together.
When you come here, it really feels like you’ve jumped into the world of Mario. Whether you’re playing or cheering someone on, everyone can come together and enjoy that sense of unity.
-Ryusei Onishi
To end the ceremony, the group joined park crew members to pull a ribbon together and open a large anniversary box. Star-shaped confetti burst into the sky. They then struck a Mario pose together and shouted “We are all STARS! The invincible year starts now!”
Special anniversary experiences began today, including:
• Colorful 5th Anniversary Decorations throughout Super Star Plaza
• Limited-time Yoshi Meet & Greet
• New mini parade: “Adventure in the Mushroom Kingdom! Exciting Star Hunt March”
Guests can find Super Stars, take exclusive photos, and fully immerse themselves in the celebration.
Additionally, 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of Universal Studios Japan, so even more exciting developments are expected.
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