This morning, Universal Studios Japan have shared a press release about the Grand Opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Japan.  Evanna Lynch, Tom Felton and even Jo herself were in attendance. The theme park is now officially open and guests can enjoy the attractions!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an area meticulously recreating the world of the Harry Potter stories, opened this morning (Tues., July 15) at 7:35 AM at Universal Studios Japan.

At approximately 7:15 AM, Mr. Tom Felton and Ms. Evanna Lynch, who both starred in the Harry Potter film series, joined USJ Co., Ltd., President & CEO Mr. Glenn Gumpel, and commenced an Opening Ceremony at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s entrance archway to much applause from guests anxious to enter. Mr. Felton and Ms. Lynch led the guests with the Revelio spell as the archway was filled with smoke, which slowly lifted to reveal Hogsmeade village prompting cheers from waiting park guests. Then so many guests stepped into Hogsmeade village with excitement and were welcomed by Hogsmeade villagers.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a 45 billion yen project with a 5.6 trillion yen projected economic impact over ten years, is sure to meet the expectations of a national level project of its size and attract many guests over the coming years.

Event Attendees

  • Tom Felton Actor: Harry Potter film series “Draco Malfoy”
  • Evanna Lynch Actress: Harry Potter film series “Luna Lovegood”
  • Glenn Gumpel Chairman & CEO, USJ Co., Ltd.

Be sure to check out the special interactive USJ website where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter and virtually experience every corner of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. www.usj.co.jp/harrypotter

J.K. Rowling, who previewed the park privately, had the following to say about the park (and The Black Lake, which is only at the Japan park):

The craft and attention to detail across the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan is incredible, and I will take away the memory of Hogwarts Castle reflected on the Black Lake in particular. I’m delighted that Harry fans in Japan and around Asia can experience a physical incarnation that is so close to what I imagined when writing the books.” – J.K. Rowling

Evanna and Tom addressed teh fans and said the following:

“Thank you for sharing your passion and your enthusiasm for the films and books with us as all because it means so much after all these years to still have that love. And thank you for welcoming us to this part of your celebration,” – Evanna Lynch

“I’m so excited to see the Japanese fans getting the opportunity to walk through this fabulous park. Very pleased to see some Slytherin t-shirts over there as well. Some home support, so thank you very much for having us.” – Tom Felton

Also, our friends at Mugglenet are in attendance and have put up their first report from the Grand Opening celebrations, read it here and make sure to check out their photos!

A quick video a fan posted during the opening celebration may be watched below:

Filed Under: Evanna Lynch, JK Rowling, Tom Felton, Wizarding World of Harry Potter