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Japan Review

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Japan

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Category: Amusement Parks
Location: Epcot

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Fodor's Review:

A brilliant vermilion torii gate, based on Hiroshima Bay's much-photographed Itsukushima Shrine, frames the World Showcase Lagoon and stands as the striking emblem of Disney's serene version of Japan. During the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, the view is more spectacular, as the gate also showcases a display of award-winning bonsai.

Disney horticulturists deserve a hand for creating an authentic landscape: 90% of the plants they used are native to Japan. Rocks, pebbled streams, pools, and carefully pruned trees and shrubs complete the meticulous picture. At sunset, or during a rainy dusk, the twisted branches of the corkscrew willows frame a perfect Japanese view of the five-story winged pagoda that is the heart of the pavilion. Based on the 8th-century Horyuji Temple in Nara, the brilliant blue pagoda has five levels, symbolizing the five elements of Buddhist belief—earth, water, fire, wind, and sky.

The peace is occasionally interrupted by authentic performances on drums and gongs. Other entertainment is provided by demonstrations of traditional Japanese crafts, such as kite-making or Miyuki, a type of candy art. Mitsukoshi Department Store, an immense three-centuries-old retail firm known as Japan's Sears Roebuck, is a favorite among Epcot shoppers and carries everything from T-shirts to kimonos and row upon row of Japanese dolls. For lunch and dinner, diners are entertained by the culinary feats of chefs at Teppan Edo (which carries on the chop-toss-applaud antics of the original Teppanyaki Dining Room). Disney recently replaced Japan's Tempura Kiku and Matsu No Ma Lounge with Tokyo Dining, which focuses on presentation of traditional ingredients and cuisine from Japan, including sushi, at slightly lower prices than those at Teppan Edo.

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