One of the loveliest pavilions at Epcot’s World Showcase, is the one for Japan. As you walk through the torii gate of the Japanese Pavilon, you notice the beautiful serene rock gardens with native plants plants like bamboo and maple trees, koi ponds and architecture. You can’t miss the huge pagoda, a replica of 7th century Horyuji Temple. You’ll also notice the white Heron Castle modeled after a 17th century fortress overlooking Himeji. Inside the castle, you’ll find the Bijutsu-Kan Gallery, displaying Japanese art and the history of Japanese anime.
For entertainment in the Japanese Pavilion, sometimes you can watch artists creating anime, doing origami or anesaiku, or even playing Matsuriza, Japanese taiko drumming. Check daily times guides for performance times and locations.
Want some unique Japanese souvenirs? Check out Mitsukoshi Department Store. Here you’ll find a variety of gifts from Hello Kitty to anime. They also have reasonably priced pearls, Japanese cookware, books and origami. You can even choose an oyster and find your very own pearl!
Dining in this pavilion is a favorite among visitors. There are two special and unique dining experiences. Teppan Edo is a hibachi grill type environment with communal seating. Chefs cook your meals right in front of you. Entrees include chicken, shrimp or beef with noodles or rice and veggies. Sushi is also available. Wash your meal down with a Krinn beer, wine or a traditional sake cocktail, if you’re of age, of course. Top off the meal with some chocolate ginger cake or green tea pudding. The other unique experience is Tokyo Dining. They offer Edo period and modern Japanese fare. Entrees include sashimi, sushi, steak, chicken or shrimp.
Katsura Grill is a quick service restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Some of the dishes offered here are panko crusted chicken sandwiches, udon noodles, Japanese curry and Okonomiyaki (Japanese pizza). This is also a great place to catch Illuminations.
Take time out to visit the Japanese pavilion and admire the architecture, serene gardens and delicious food. If you’ve tried any of these, what did you think?
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Shannan is a mom that was born and raised in rural Tennessee. She tells us: “I live with my husband and 3 of our 5 children. Travis is 24 and is father to my grandbabies, Emma and baby Judson. I can’t wait to start sharing Disney with them. Dusty is 22, Clay 12, Zachary 10 and Erin is 8. I clean houses to make money to fund my magical trips. I went to Disney the first time as a teen and couldn’t wait to start introducing my own children to the magic. We took our 3 youngest in 2004 and that started it all. We have been 3 times since then and have our first Christmas trip planned for this December. Usually my parents accompany us on the trip and I have to research and plan for things that will suit various ages in our party of 7. Each time I go, I try new experiences in lodging and dining so I can share it with friends and family that seek my advice on trip planning! Disney is definitely my first choice in vacation destinations. Hopefully there is a Disney surf and turf vacation in our future!“
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