The torii in the Japan Pavilion is one of the most prominent architectural features in Epcot’s World Showcase. A torii (鳥居, literally bird abode) is a traditional Japanese gate most commonly found at the entrance of a Shinto shrine, where it indicates you are about to transition from the ordinary to the sacred. While this particular torii is only meant to be culturally symbolic, for many Disney guests, including me, it does have a near-spiritual significance. Being within sight of it or close to it means I am in a very special space; a favorite place among all of my cherished Disney places.
This extended film, created from a loop of a much shorter video, was captured during Epcot’s 2020 International Flower and Garden Festival. The topiary dragon was one of many thematic topiaries prominently featured throughout Epcot during the festival. Japanese dragons (日本の竜 Nihon no ryū) are diverse legendary creatures in Japanese mythology and folklore, a blending of native legends with imported stories about dragons from China, Korea and Vietnam. Like this one, most Japanese dragons are water deities associated with rainfall and bodies of water, and are typically depicted as large, wingless, serpentine creatures with clawed feet.
I invite you to sit with me in this special space as we take in the grand view of World Showcase lagoon from this incredibly well imagineered pavilion.
O tanoshimi kudasai.
Viewing Notes
This moment was recorded in 4K high definition video and is viewable on all devices. Meant to be enjoyed as a passive experience, I encourage you to play it in the background on your computer or television while you work or just sit back and relax in the ambiance of Epcot. Use headphones to more fully immerse yourself in the ambient sounds of the space.
Related videos you may also enjoy:
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Floating Gardens and Monorail (4K HD) One Hour Loop
Epcot World Showcase Lagoon from the UK Pavilion (4K) 1 Hour Loop