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6 Things You Will Love About Epcot’s Japan Pavilion In Walt Disney World

The Japan pavilion is themed to perfection, as per Disney’s usual style. You become immersed in the culture and architectural elements in a way that is the next best thing to actually visiting Japan. There are so many things to take in, see and experience at the pavilion that you will definitely want to spend a decent amount of time here. It isn’t to be missed. Here are 6 things you will love about the Japan pavilion:

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6. Mitsukoshi store

This is a HUGE, amazing store. There are tons of unique gift shop options including kimonos, sushi plates, chopsticks, anime, various video game character merchandise and many other items that are prominent in Japanese culture. We spend a long time carefully looking through this store and at all of the amazing collectibles when we visit. You can be fitted for kimonos and try them on so you can really see what it is like to wear an authentic kimono. It is a lot of fun, and you likely won’t leave the store without buying something. (Don’t worry, they do offer package pick-up or resort delivery for your purchases!)

5. The cast members

The cast members at the pavilion are native from Japan, and bring all of their customs and traditions to share with guests. We have talked to many of the cast members there and learned a lot of interesting stories about their country and home towns. They help bring their culture and traditions alive for guests so that you can get a feeling of what it would be like to visit Japan. The pavilion as a whole is full of energy and excitement, and the cast members there are a huge part of that.

4. Matsuriza drum performance

You won’t be able to miss the booming sounds coming from this performance. The performers come out with their huge drums and wow the audience with their power and perfect performance. They chant and dance to the drums and create an experience that is exclusive to Japanese culture. It is unlike any experience that you would be able to get without actually going to Japan for yourself. You will want to check the Times Guide to see when they will be performing so that you are outside and ready for the show.

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3. The amazing dining options

The pavilion has quick-service dining options if you are looking for smaller bites or something quick and easy to drop by and dine, and are definitely higher quality than what you would expect from a quick-service location. You can even get delicious sushi at these locations. If a full sit-down experience is what you are looking for, then you won’t want to miss Tokyo Dining, Teppan Edo, or the newest addition – Takumi-Tei. Tokyo Dining is a true sushi restaurant that will have you feeling like you are enjoying sushi in the heart of Tokyo. Teppan Edo embraces the heart of Japanese culture with a hibachi dining experience. The newest dining addition, Takumi-Tei, celebrates the beauty of Japan with signature dishes. All three are absolutely delicious! We especially love the “show” and the amazing service at Teppan Edo which pushes them to the top for us. Make sure that you make reservations for whichever restaurant you choose since they are very popular!

2. Delicious drinks

If “drinking around the world” or alcoholic beverages are your thing, this pavilion definitely won’t leave you disappointed. The Tokyo Sunsets are our favorite mixed drink in the entire World Showcase. We can’t seem to pass one up when we visit. The sake is also amazing, and definitely makes for a relaxing visit to the pavilion. There is also a selection of Japanese beer if beer is your thing, and you can’t go wrong with those either. We love everything about the drinks and have been known to “drink around Japan” since we love it so much!

1. The views for Epcot’s Fireworks

This pavilion offers amazing views for Epcot’s Fireworks. There aren’t many obstructions that would interfere with your views over the water. The pavilion is also close to the center of the World Showcase (It is next to the American Adventure, which is the center), so it offers once of the best vantage points for the show. It is possible to see the show from Tokyo Dining if you are dining there during that time and are seated close to the windows, but I think the best viewing from this pavilion is outside right by the water. Save me a spot, and I’ll grab the drinks!

About Christy Caby

I am a diehard Disney fanatic! I fell in love with all things Disney from an early age and that only increased once I first visited Walt Disney World! It led me to complete a yearlong Disney College Program working at merchandise locations within Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Disney-MGM Studios at that time) and I worked for Disney Parks & Resorts Technology in Project/Program Management. Now I get to write about Disney and help others plan their magical vacations! Disney holds a special place in the hearts of my entire family as my husband proposed there, we honeymooned there, took trips while pregnant with each of my boys and have visited with them many, many times from 8 weeks old through now. One of my favorite memories from each trip is always the look on my kids’ faces the first time they see the castle. I’d love to help you plan your magical vacation! Request a free quote at http://magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/christy-caby/ or look for me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/christy.caby. Have a magical day!