EPCOT has 11 pavilions that showcase different countries around the world, each one unique and offering up cultural food, drinks, and shopping. It can be overwhelming knowing where the best spots are to eat and drink, what you need to see, and what you can skip. Over the next few weeks, I will feature one pavilion a week and show you Insiders what there is to see and do and eat in each country. It will be so much fun, and I can’t wait to take all of you Insiders on this exploration! So far, we have explored Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, American Adventure (U.S.)…and now, the Japan pavilion!
The first time I visited the Japan pavilion, I was in awe. The architecture is breathtaking, and it has some really fun shopping; the entertainment is astounding, and of course, the food is delectable. This pavilion is especially stunning when it glows under soft lantern light in the evening. You can spend hours in this pavilion alone, so let’s explore everything there is to do!
Dining
The Japan pavilion is not short on dining options! If you’re looking for just a snack and want a taste of Japan, you will want to head over to Kabuki Cafe. You can order their popular Kakigōri (Japanese shaved ice), Sake Mist (Alcoholic Shaved Ice), sushi, edamame, and more!
If you’re looking to sit in a serene setting but still enjoy quick-service dining, Katsura Grill features menu items such as teriyaki, sushi, chicken cutlet curry, salads, and more. Draft beer, sake, and plum wine are also available. You can also enjoy the sound of distant taiko drums at this dining spot!
Teppan Edo is a unique and delicious spot that offers delectable Japanese dishes you can savor. They are open for lunch and dinner; you will need a reservation if you want to dine here. This is an exciting dining experience that’s part meal, part show. In the communal ritual of Teppan-yaki-style cooking, skillful chefs chop and stir-fry dishes on grills at your table. Select from steak, chicken, seafood, and vegetable entrées served with Udon noodles and steamed rice. They also offer other Japanese favorites, such as edamame and assorted sushi rolls.
Want a nice dinner, but without the show? Tokyo Dining is a sleek, contemporary spot that serves authentic Japanese cuisine and views of World Showcase Lagoon. This spot is also open for lunch and dinner; reservations are required. Dine on Sushi Rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi—perfect for traditionalists and those who like new and exciting tastes.
Before you make your way over to the next pavilion (American Adventure or Morocco pavilions), stop by Japan Marketplace, a Food and Wine Festival stop serving Japanese specialties.
Shopping
The Japan pavilion only has one store, the Mitsukoshi Department Store, but it is HUGE, and it’s the only Mitsukoshi store in North America! A five-story pagoda surrounded by lush gardens and a koi pond stands near the entrance. This two-story building is reminiscent of an Imperial ceremonial hall in Japan. The second floor is home to Teppan Edo, and the first floor is where you will find the store.
You will get lost in the endless amount of treasures they carry around every nook and cranny, and you’ll have a hard time choosing just one souvenir. During my first visit, I came home with a set of nice chopsticks and a bonsai tree I could grow at home. They sell authentic and traditional Japanese gifts, pop culture items, home décor, kitchenware, accessories, Japanese costumes, fine pearl jewelry, books, decorative clocks, authentic Japanese candies and treats, and so much more!
Attractions
Bijutsu-kan Gallery is a super neat and interesting place. Here, you can delve into the origin and evolution of kawaii-Japan’s “cute” culture. Kawaii means cute or loveable—and represents an obsession with all things darling, such as Hello Kitty, which is included in the exhibit. You’ll discover how kawaii is rooted deep in Japan’s Shinto past and how it’s become a core aspect of Japanese culture—and a new form of self-expression. The current Bijutsu-kan Gallery show, “Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture,” looks at this pop-culture phenomenon that’s swept the globe. Prepare for major cuteness overload!
Entertainment
The Matsuriza plays several times throughout the day, and it’s so cool to watch you won’t want to step away until the show is done! At this show, you can experience the thundering sound of Taiko, a time-honored form of drumming. Japanese Taiko drums have enthralled audiences for years in religious ceremonies, festivals, and even on battlefields as soldiers prayed for victory. The costumes worn by the Japanese drummers are authentic and vibrant, and the sounds of the drums will make you feel as if you have been transported right into Japan. It’s quite an impressive and dazzling display of pure physical stamina. Be sure to catch a showing when you stop by this pavilion!
Be sure to stay tuned for next week because I will be taking you on an exploration of the next pavilion in the World Showcase at EPCOT-Morocco!
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