Exploring the Japan Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase

Japan Pavilion

Epcot’s World Showcase

Mitsukosho has been sponsoring the Japan Pavilion in Epcot since 1982. They have taken great care to represent many cultural aspects of Japan. From the stores, buildings, food and entertainment there is so much to see.

Mitsukosho is the largest and first department story in Japan it is also the largest store in the Japan Pavilion. It run along the whole right side of the pavilion. Inside you can find so many different items there is truly something for everyone. They have traditional Japanese clothing, toys, tea sets, and food. There is a sake bar located in the back of the store. Disney Play Ducktales Adventures has interactive parts that run through the store as well. There is a special experience that is located in the center of the store, Pick-a-Pearl. You get to pick out an oyster, they open it and you get the pearl inside. There are several different ways to set the pearl after you get it. This is the only place in Epcot that you are able to do this experience. There is Capsule Toy Kiosk located outside the Katsura Grill. Here you can see an assortment of Japanese capsule toys. These are so cute; it is hard to pick just one.

There are four main buildings that shape the Japan Pavilion. Mitsukosho store and several restaurants are housed in a building that is inspired by the coronation and ceremonial hall from the Kyoto Imperial Palace the former residence of Japan’s emperors in Kyoto. Directly across the pavilion is a replica of Horyuji Temple. The Horyuji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Ikaruga. The building has five stories representing the five elements of Buddhist cosmology: Earth, Water, Fire, Wind and Sky.

Next the this towering temping is the gardens. These gardens feature statues, koi pond and bridges. These gardens are inspired by the gardens located Katsura Imperial Villa gardens in Kyoto.

Up on the hill there is the Katsura Grill which is modeled after the different houses found on the villa grounds. The focal icon and centrally located in the pavilion is the Himeji Castle. This fortress has white walls and blue roofs. There are also beautiful fish statue throughout as well. This castle is also referred to as the White Egret Castle. These architecture beauties are definitely worth taking time out explore and enjoy.

Food! As part of many cultures food plays a huge role. There are many ways to enjoy Japanese cuisines while visiting the Japan Pavilion. The Takumi-Tei restaurant is a high end Japanese experience, located on the lower level of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Hall. Shiki- Sai: Sushi Izakaya (a sushi restaurant) and Teppan Edo (a hibachi restaurant) share the second floor of the same building. There are Japanese snacks and treats as well as a sake bar located within the Mitsukosho store. Katsura Grill is the quick service dining location with seating available throughout the gardens. It offers options such as noodles, teriyaki and curry. If you are looking for a grab and go you can always stop at the Kabuki Café. If you are looking for a sweet treat you must try the Kakigori from the Kabuki Café. This traditional shaved ice dessert where you can choose one or two flavors or you can try the rainbow. There are also options for sweet crème toppings. It is a refreshing treat and a great way to help beat the Florida heat. Throughout the year Epcot host many festival and the Japan Pavilion always has a Festival Marketplace kiosk with new delicious dishes for you to try.

While there is so many food options and architecture sights to enjoy make sure you take time out of your day to see the Matsuriza show. This 20-minute show walks you through a time honored Japanese tradition of drumming. The powerful drumming music is coupled with story of the song. Make sure that stop by the Kidcot Fun Stop next to the Bijutsu-kan Gallery to pick up a country card and have a cast member write your name in Japanese. What a great memento from your time exploring the Japan Pavilion.

Check out the Japan Pavilion sheet to test your knowledge while exploring Epcot.

Download: Explore Japan Epcot Worksheet