Disney’s Slice of Tokyo: Insider’s Tour of the Japan Pavilion at Epcot
One of the most unique country pavilions at EPCOT is the Japan Pavilion. Highlighted by the five-story blue roofed Japanese Pagoda, this courtyard style pavilion features multiple dining venues, a large Japanese themed gift shop, a gallery that showcases Japanese art / culture and authentic Japanese entertainment.
Guests visiting the pavilion will also enjoy the stunning architectural detains, gardens with bamboo and bonsai tree and a number of ponds including one filled with koi fish. There is even a large torii gate at the front of the pavilion along the shores of the World Showcase Lagoon which is inspired by the gate Itsukushima Shrine in Japan.
The Japan Pavilion is World Showcase at Epcot and is situated between The American Adventure and the Morocco Pavilion.
Dining Venues
From quick service dining, courtyard marketplaces and fine dining, guests visiting the Japan Pavilion will find some of the best eateries in the Epcot World Showcase.
Reservations for table service restaurants can be made up to 60 days in advance (or up to 60 days in advance of arrival for hotel guests) by using the Walt Disney World web site, MyDisneyExperience app or by calling 407.939.7529. The cancellation policy is that reservations not cancelled at least two hours in advance will be charges a $10.00 per person fee.
In addition to the dining venues shown below, there is typically a marketplace along the lagoon area which offers light bites and specialty beverages. The menu changes seasonally based on the individual festival taking place at that time so be sure to check the Festival Passport during your next visit.
Teppan Edo
Teppan Edo is located on the second floor of the pavilion and is one of the most entertaining dining experiences in World Disney World. Guests enjoy community dining with “Teppan-yaki-style cooking” with the chefs preparing the meals right at the table.
This restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner service starting at noon with dinner service typically ending at 9:00 PM. Dining plans are offered but are temporarily unavailable at this time.
Prices range from around $15.00 to more than $30.00 per person with entrees including the Volcano Roll ($20.00), and the Sashimi Sampler ($16.00), the NY Cut Steak ($40.00), Salmon ($37.00), Hotate ($44.00), Asakusa ($44.00) and Ninonbashi ($43.00).
There is also a children’s menu for kids ages 9 and younger is available which offers grilled shrimp ($19.00), salmon ($20.00) and chicken ($18.00). There are a variety of Japanese beers, Sake and specialty cocktails offered.
Takumi-Tei
Located in the first floor of behind the bonsai gardens in a very non-descript location is Takumi-Tei (“House of Artisan). This dining venue is one of the Disney Signature Dining experiences and one of the most desirable reservations at Walt Disney World.
There are just five rooms at Takumi-Tei, each of which is “inspired by a natural element” – earth, wood, water, stone and washi paper. But what makes Takumi-Tei unique is that it offers just two upscale “multicourse omakase tasting” menus.
Kiku: Omni Course which starts at $250.00 per adult
- Zensai Moriawase (five seasonal appetizers)
- Agemono (lobster tempura)
- Sushi
- Sashimi
- Yakimono (Japanese A5 Wagyu steak or Chilean seabass along with side dishes)
- Ocha to Kanmi
Hasu: Plant-based Course which starts at $150.00 per adult
- Zensai Moriawase (three seasonal appetizers)
- Sushi
- Yuba Roll
- Sausai (deep-fried tofu wit hsides)
- Yasai Tempura
- Ocha to Kanmi
A children’s “Himawari” menu for kids ages eight to 12 is available ($100.00 per person) and includes smaller portions of several of the items shown above. Also offered is a wide range of Sake, Japanese beer, wine and specialty cocktails.
Katsura Grill
Just up the stairs on the left of the pavilion beyond the Koi pond is the Katsura Grill. This quick-service dining venue is the perfect place for a light lunch or quick dinner. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available with the outdoor area being a tranquil spot to eat during mild weather.
Katsura Grill serves a variety of sushi ($9.00 to $12.00), noodles & salads ($12.00 to $13.00), chicken / shrimp / beef teriyaki ($13.00 to $16.00) and chicken cutlet curry ($14.00). There are a number of side dishes and desserts offered like miso soup, edamame, yuzo miso wings, yuzu cheesecake and mousse cake.
Kids meals are also available and include chicken teriyaki ($8.50), chicken & shrimp teriyaki ($9.50) and beef & shrimp teriyaki ($9.50).
Kabuki Cafe
Located directly in the Pagoda is the Kabuki Cafe. This walk-up venue featured a variety of snacks, sushi and non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
Featured menu items include:
- Kakigori ($5.50)
- Kakigori with Sweet Milk Toping ($7.00)
- Chilled Edamame ($4.50)
- Sake Mist ($10.00)
- California Roll ($6.00)
- Spicy Roll ($6.00)
- Nigiri Combo ($6.50)
Garden House
Located directly in the courtyard area is the Garden House where visitors can quench their thirst with a variety of Japanese hot and cold beverages including beer, plum wine and sake.
Hanami
The most recent outdoor kitchen is Hanami which is operating during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. This seasonal marketplace features a variety of lite bites and beverages which include:
- Frushi
- Hanami Sushi
- Creamy Shrimp Udon
- Sakura Cherry Blossom Pilsner
- Hakushika Hana Kohaku Plum Sake
- Nigori Dragon Fruit Sake Cocktail
Shiki-Sai: Shushi Izakaya
One of the most recent additions to the Japan Pavilion and offers visitors an authentic Japanese culinary experience within the theme park setting. Specializing in sushi and izakaya-style dishes, Shiki-Sai provides a casual dining atmosphere typical of traditional Japanese izakaya establishments.
The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese small plates or appetizers, allowing guests to sample a range of flavors and dishes.
Located on the second floor of the pavilion, this restaurant is the perfect spot to catch the evening fireworks show.
Shopping
If you love Japanese merchandise than the Mitsukoshi Department Store is the perfect place to visit. This enormous retail outlet is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and is located on the first floor of the pavilion building.
The store features a wide variety of Japanese apparel, toys, jewelry, books and gifts along with a large selection of candy & snacks. There is even a place to buy authentic pearls.
Just outside of the exit to the store is the “KIDCOT” area which features an entertaining and educational activity for kids to learn about Japanese culture.
Entertainment
While there are no “rides” at the Japan Pavilion like that in Norway or Mexico, there is still plenty of entertainment offered to guests.
Matsuriza
Experience three Japanese drummers perform the ancient sound of Taiko in Matsuriza. This 15-minute performance is offered several times a day from 11:00 AM to approximately 5:00 PM and the drummers are located directly on the first floor of the Pagoda at the entrance to the courtyard.
Bijutsu-kan Gallery
Located just outside the exit of the Mitsukoshi Department Store is the Bijutsu-kan Gallery. At this time the gallery features “Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture” which includes characters like Hello Kitty.
While it does not take very long to peruse this gallery, it is an enjoyable experience and worthwhile for first time visitors
Best hotels to stay when visiting Epcot
If you are planning on visiting Epcot, we would highly recommend you stay a hotel within walking distance or with a transportation service like those in the Epcot Resorts Area. Following are a few of our favorites.
The Walt Disney World Boardwalk Resort Hotels
The Walt Disney World Boardwalk Resorts comprise the following resort hotels and vacation club properties:
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas (vacation club)
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas (vacation club)
All three are within walking distance to Epcot’s International Gateway (the entrance in the World Showcase area of the park) and there is also a water taxi service that runs all day long.
These resort hotel are very popular (especially during the Food & Wine Festival) and rates are typically not cheap. Prices range from less than $500 per night to more than $1,000 per night depending on the room type and the date of the stay.
Click here for Rates & Reservations
The Walt Disney World Dolphin
The Walt Disney World Dolphin is one of our favorite hotels in Orlando and it is our “go to” when we are planning on visiting Epcot. The Dolphin is immediately adjacent to the Walt Disney World Boardwalk and within easy walking distance of both Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Water taxi transportation is also available.
The Dolphin is part of the Marriott Bonvoy program so guests can earn or use points for their stay at one of the 1,514 rooms or suites. There are extensive amenities and dining options at this massive resort.
Hotel rates range around $300.00 per night to more than $500.00 per night depending on the time a year and room type.
