©Disney Image Makers
Standing brightly in front of the Japan Pavilion is the red Torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine that can be seen from all around the World Showcase Lagoon. As you look past the Torii, you can’t help but notice the 5-story blue-roof iconic Goju-no-to pagoda standing at an impressive 85 feet tall.
The Goju-no-to pagoda was inspired by a Shrine built at Nara in 700 AD and each floor represents the elements that Buddhists believe are how all things are created – Earth, wind, fire, water and sky. The top is adorned with a nine-ringed sorin (or spire) with bronze wind chimes with a water flame.
The Japan pavilion is comprised of several architecturally pleasing buildings surrounding a lively courtyard. On the right side of the courtyard stands the Shishinden which was inspired by the ceremonial and coronation hall found at the Imperial Palace grounds in Kyoto. The Shishinden is believed to be one of the first true style of Japanese architecture dating back to 794.
©Mad About the Mouse
At the end of the courtyard, the massive wood and stone Nijō Castle has massive sculptures of samurai warriors on horseback that welcome guests as they pass across the wide bridge. As you pass over the moat you are entering the Shirasagigi that is home to the Bijutsu-kan Gallery, a gallery exhibiting colorful displays from Japanese pop culture.
The gardens found within the Japan pavilion offer truly unique beauty. Gardening in Japan is an art form with incredible attention to detail. When in the pavilion, make sure to spend some time in the beautiful hill garden where you will find rustic bridges, pathways, rocks, flowers, lanterns, pebbles, and a peaceful pond that is The pond at the entrance to the hill garden are also home to many beautiful and colorful Koi fish. Each and every object and its placement in the garden has a special meaning – activity, symbolism, and a great respect for nature are present.
©Mad About the Mouse
This pavilion offers great dining options with two counter service and two outstanding table services restaurants, including an authentic Teppan-yaki style cooking that is part food and part show. It also is home to a 10,000 square foot department store featuring authentic Japanese goods. If you are looking for unique entertainment, this pavilion is brimming with it. Feel the thunder of Matsuriza Japanese Taiko—a time-honored form of drumming performed with synchronized movements.
Now matter what you are looking for, the Japan pavilion offers peace and serenity which is a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the World Showcase and the rest of the park.
Attractions in Japan Pavilion
©Mad About the Mouse
Bijutsu-kan Gallery – This gallery displays continually changing exhibits that reflect Japanese life and culture. The exhibit changes every couple years and “Spirited Beasts: From Ancient Stories to Anime Stars.” is currently on display. “Spirited Beasts” gives a newfound appreciation for the origins of familiar anime faces and their exciting adventures. They’re not just child’s play; they’re an integral part of Japan’s cultural history.
©Mad About the Mouse
Matsuriza – This Japanese Taiko drum show perform in the pavilion daily. In Japanese, Taiko means “drum” – in Epcot, it means amazing entertainment. As thunderous sounds of Matsuriza echo across the waters of World Showcase, people start to gather around the stage beneath the 5-story pagoda as the percussion troupe perform traditional Japanese arrangements.
Dining in Japan Pavilion
Kabuki Cafe – Outdoor kiosk offering refreshing Japanese snack favorites like sushi, shaved ice, sake and more. Great place to grab a shaved ice and take in the Taiko sounds.
- Experience: Counter service – Snack
- Price range: $ ($14.99 and under)
- Details: Disney Dining Plans not accepted
- Menu – Click Here for Full Menu
- Snow White’s Ranking:
Katsura Grill – Tucked away on the hillside of the Japan Pavilion, this counter- service restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with menu features like traditional Japanese noodle dishes, sushi Teriyaki and Tempura.
- Experience: Counter service – Lunch & Dinner
- Price range: $ ($14.99 and under)
- Details: Disney Dining Plans accepted
- Menu – Click Here for Full Menu
- Snow White’s Ranking:
©Mad About the Mouse
Teppan Edo – Enjoy the spirit of authentic Japanese cuisine during a fun dining experience that is part meal and part culinary feats. Enjoy the show as skillful chefs chops, toss and stir-fry dishes on the grills at your table in the communal ritual of Teppan-yaki style cooking.
- Experience: Table Service – Lunch & Dinner
- Price range: $$ ($15 – $29.99)
- Details: Disney Dining Plans accepted
- Menu – Click Here for Full Menu
- Reservations recommended
- Call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 to make reservations.
- Snow White’s Ranking:
Tokyo Dining – Discover the elegance of Japanese culture and cuisine as you watch talented sushi chefs create culinary magic right before your eyes. The dining room offers floor to ceiling windows for a wonderful view of the World showcase lagoon.
- Experience: Table Service – Lunch & Dinner
- Price range: $$ ($15 – $29.99)
- Details: Disney Dining Plans accepted
- Tables in Wonderland 20% discount
- Menu – Click Here for Full Menu
- Reservations recommended
- Call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 to make reservations.
- Snow White’s Ranking:
Shopping
©Mad About the Mouse
Mitsukoshi Department Store – 10,000 square foot department store offering an amazing array of authentic and traditional Japanese gifts including fans, dolls, Japanese Swords, anime, Hello Kitty and Pokemon cards.
The Pick-a-Pearl station is a big draw to this shopping mecca and is easy to find with all the cheering and drums. Select from hundreds of oysters in the tanks surrounding the station. Every oyster will yield a gem, some even find the rare oysters with “twin” pearls. Once you have found your gem, you can select from several jewelry pieces to set you pearl in.
Recent Comments