As the completion date draws nearer, the scaffolding surrounding the nascent Hogwarts Castle has started to come down, revealing the sight of impressive spires to delighted fans who have been posting pictures on Twitter.
Outside the U.S., Japan is the largest market worldwide for the Harry Potter series. The films alone have grossed nearly $900 million at the box office and attracted more than 78 million moviegoers.
J.K. Rowling, author of the original book series said, “I was delighted to experience and enjoy the attention to detail, creativity, and superb craft that went into the first Wizarding World in Orlando. I am equally delighted that the same level of expertise and enjoyment will translate to the new park in Japan.”
Elsewhere, trains on the JR Sakurajima line — which will provide a direct link to the theme park when it opens — have been running Harry Potter-themed ads on their sides since February to drum up advance interest in the Osaka attraction.