Osaka theme park Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has revealed that it is to open a new area - Universal Wonderland - in spring 2012, which will cater for guests of all ages.

Based on the image of a small town, the new 30,000sq m (322,917sq ft) area is to comprise three zones that will feature Snoopy, Hello Kitty and Sesame Street characters. Hello Kitty Fashion Avenue has been created from the idea that the cartoon cat has returned from Hollywood to open a ribbon-themed boutique and includes a range of features.

The second zone will be Sesame Friendly Town, featuring an indoor and an outdoor space hosting ride attractions and play areas based on characters such as Elmo and Big Bird. Meanwhile, the existing Snoopy Studios - based on the concept of a movie studio in which the cartoon dog is a director shooting films with guests - will feature new experiences.

Universal Wonderland will be located on the former Land of Oz area at USJ, in addition to the Snoopy Studios area. Snoopy Studios is to close in January due to construction work. Image: Terence Ong