Super Nintendo World Hollywood: Japanese vs English Character Names

Universal Studios Hollywood “Super Nintendo World” – Did You Know Some Character Names Are Different in English?

One of the most famous tourist spots in Los Angeles is Universal Studios Hollywood!

It’s an especially popular destination that attracts visitors from all around the world.

This time, we’re introducing one of the newest areas at Universal Studios Hollywood—

“Super Nintendo World,” an area based on beloved characters created by a Japanese company!

1. What is Super Mario Bros.?

Super Mario Bros. is a video game released by Nintendo in 1985, and not only the game itself but also its cute and unique characters are loved all around the world.

At the time of its release, the game was revolutionary as a side-scrolling action game and had a major influence on video game design that followed.

Many game elements that are now standard—like jumping and hidden items—are said to have been popularized by the Mario series.

It’s a family-friendly game that all ages can enjoy, characterized by its simple and intuitive gameplay!

2. What is Super Nintendo World?

Super Nintendo World is an area where you can experience Nintendo’s video game worlds come to life.

At the entrance to the area, you’ll find the iconic green Warp Pipe, giving you the sensation of warping into Mario’s world.

3. Where Is It Located in the Park?

Super Nintendo World is located at the farthest point from the entrance of Universal Studios Hollywood.

Universal Studios Hollywood is actually divided into two areas.

The area near the entrance is called the Upper Lot, and if you go further in and take the long escalators down, you’ll reach the Lower Lot.

The Mario area is located within the Lower Lot, and it’s at the very back of that area.

The escalators connecting the Upper Lot and Lower Lot are surprisingly long—if you walk at a leisurely pace, it takes about 10-15 minutes.

4. Mario Is Hugely Popular in America Too!

Mario and other Nintendo characters are incredibly popular in America as well.

At the meet-and-greet spots with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach within the area, you’ll often see long lines of people waiting to take photos with the characters.

You’ll also see many guests throughout the park wearing character hats like Mario, Bowser, and Yoshi!

Frontier by EcoDrive (@frontier_ecodrive)

5. Are Character Names Different in English-Speaking Countries?

While character names like Mario and Luigi sound similar in both Japanese and English pronunciation, making them easy for Japanese speakers to recognize, some characters actually have completely different names.

For example, the following three characters have different names:

Kuppa (クッパ)

The English name is Bowser. While I couldn’t confirm the exact origin of the name, apparently when Americans hear this name, it gives the impression of a villainous character and is easy to remember.

Kinopio (キノピオ)

The English name is Toad. This mushroom-like character gets its name from “toadstool” (a type of poisonous mushroom).

King Teresa (キングテレサ)

The English name is King Boo. Since the character looks like a ghost, it was given the word “Boo,” which commonly refers to ghosts in English-speaking countries!

6. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge (Attraction)

This is the same attraction as “Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge” at Universal Studios Japan!

It’s an attraction where you can experience what it’s like to actually drive a Mario Kart, and this is currently the only major ride in the Hollywood location!

You wear special AR goggles, accept Bowser’s challenge, and team up with Mario, Luigi, and others to battle against Team Bowser.

The adorable world design and the feeling of actually being inside the game make this such an amazing attraction!

7. Toadstool Cafe (Restaurant)

This is the same restaurant as “Kinopio’s Cafe” at Universal Studios Japan!

While some menu items are similar to Japan’s, there are also different offerings.

This time, we ordered the Bowser-themed super spicy one-pound meatball dish!

The meatball was loaded with so much chili pepper that it turned red—it’s incredibly spicy, but so delicious that you can’t stop eating it and it becomes addictive.

Either Americans have a high tolerance for spice, or the spicy dishes are made to be intensely hot—so be warned, they can be challenging to eat!

Also, for an additional $10, you can get an exclusive Bowser bowl (dish) to take home!

Check out the actual video and more details on our Instagram below!

Frontier by EcoDrive (@frontier_ecodrive)

8. 1-Up Factory (Shop)

This is the same shop as “1-Up Factory” at Universal Studios Japan!

It’s the perfect shop for items you can wear and enjoy around the park, or take home as souvenirs!

There are tons of adorable items like character hats and plush toys on display—just browsing is exciting!

9. Power-Up Band

Just like in Japan, various interactive features are set up throughout the area, and you can take on the “Power-Up Band Key Challenges”!

By using the Power-Up Band to collect digital coins and keys, you can unlock the final showdown against Bowser Jr.

10. Final Thoughts

Super Mario is hugely popular in America too!

Seeing Japanese characters loved overseas is truly heartwarming!

Be sure to experience the English version of Mario’s world in Hollywood—it’s a slightly different but equally fun experience!

Don’t forget to check out our Instagram below!

Frontier by EcoDrive (@frontier_ecodrive)

For more details about Universal Studios Hollywood as a whole, check out our article below!

Universal Studios Hollywood Guide: Tickets, Hours, Parking & Tips