Disney has been moving fast lately. New lands are taking shape, classic attractions are being refreshed, and some spaces are being completely reimagined. But not every big moment comes with fireworks.
Some of the most exciting updates are the ones fans have quietly been waiting for—and one of those just dropped at EPCOT. A long-anticipated update has officially arrived at one of the most beloved pavilions in the park. The Japan Pavilion has received a significant change, and guests are already buzzing about it. This isn’t a minor tweak. It’s a noticeable shift that regular visitors will immediately notice.
Why EPCOT Is the Perfect Place for Change
EPCOT has always stood apart from the other parks at Walt Disney World Resort. It’s a park built on ideas, culture, and global experiences. Guests can start their morning on a high-energy thrill, such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or Test Track, and spend their afternoon walking through World Showcase, where architecture, food, and music transport them around the globe.
Festivals make EPCOT even more dynamic. From the Festival of the Arts to Food & Wine, the park’s calendar is filled with rotating events that give guests something new to look forward to every season. But even in a park that thrives on variety, certain updates stand out more than others. This is one of them.
Japan Pavilion’s Big Moment
The Japan Pavilion has always been a standout in World Showcase. Between the towering red torii gate, the pagoda, the peaceful koi ponds, and the massive Mitsukoshi Department Store, it’s a place where guests slow down instead of rushing through.
For many, it’s a favorite stop, not just for the atmosphere, but also for the food. So, when Disney quietly announced an update, EPCOT fans started paying attention. They knew something was coming, and now it’s finally here.
A Major Shake-Up
Disney has made a significant change at Katsura Grill, one of EPCOT’s most popular quick-service locations. Fan-favorite Yuzu Wings have been removed, desserts are no longer available, and even the sushi option has disappeared. That’s a significant shift for a spot that regulars have relied on for years. But sushi lovers don’t have to panic.
Kabuki Cafe, just down the stairs from Katsura Grill, is now the exclusive home for grab-and-go sushi. Prices have increased significantly, from approximately $6.25 to $6.50 to between $10 and $14. Kakigori has also leveled up.
Guests can now choose between regular and large sizes, and toppings have expanded beyond sweet milk to include Coconut Creme, Pineapple Creme, and Mandarin Orange. It’s a refresh that changes how guests move through the pavilion’s food options.
Why Fans Are On Board
For years, EPCOT food enthusiasts have sought more variety. Festivals have been serving many of the same dishes year after year, and menus across World Showcase have been slow to change. This update feels like a breath of fresh air.
It’s not just about what’s been added or removed—it’s the feeling of something new in a familiar space. Fans are already discussing how this will impact their usual EPCOT dining strategies, and many are excited to try the upgraded kakigori and sushi options.
A Subtle Change That Matters
This isn’t a flashy new ride or a major land reveal, but it’s the kind of change EPCOT fans notice immediately. It’s thoughtful, strategic, and gives one of the park’s most beloved pavilions new life.
As Disney continues to roll out transformations across its parks, this Japan Pavilion update proves that even subtle changes can have a significant impact.
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