The China Pavilion in Disney’s Epcot – 6 Things You Need to Know

Among the 11 countries around the World Showcase at Epcot, the China Pavilion seems to draw us in time and time again for the entertainment, shopping, and dining selections. Here are six things you should know about the China Pavilion before your next trip around the World Showcase.

1 – Chinese Architecture

Get those cameras ready! The awe-inspiring Chinese architecture greets guests the moment they walk away from either neighboring country (Norway or Germany). China invites guests inside the pavilion with a large Paifang, which is a traditional Chinese architectural arch or gateway structure. It’s grand stature, and vibrant colors are just a touch of what is within. All the buildings (especially the main structure – the Temple of Heaven) match the Chinese architecture perfectly… right down to the light poles! Our favorite, however, is the beautiful courtyard in front of Reflections of China that has lush ponds and cross over bridges. It’s just spectacular!

2 – Reflections of China

We aren’t typically the Disney guests that sit down to watch films, but from time to time, it’s nice to have a break out of the sun and relax in an air-conditioned space. If there is a film, however, to catch, it’s Reflections of China in China’s Temple of Heaven. The 14-minute film plays continuously throughout the day, from typically 11 am to 9 pm. The best part – it takes place in a Circle-Vision 360-degree cinema that literally wraps around the guests viewing the film. Sights and sounds of China are shared with highlights of the Great Wall of China, Huangpu River, Shanghai, Martial artistry such as Tai Chi and the Agile Acrobatics, Huangshan mountain range, Yangtze River, the city of Suzhou, the night market in Xinjiang Province, Gobi Desert, and Shilin Stone Forest. Side Note: Inside of Reflections of China is a museum called the House of Whispering Willows. This museum holds some incredible ancient Chinese artifacts, including a replica of a clay army, created to protect the Emperor.

Editor’s Note: Disney has announced they are working on updating the China Pavilion. Currently, “Reflections of China,” feature a roughly 14-minute film in Circle-Vision 360. These upgrades are said to include new, seamless 360-degree Circle-Vision along with new scenery images. “Wondrous China” will replace the current film. No word on when the new film will debut. 

3 – Jeweled Dragon Acrobats

Wow – did that just happen? You might just be asking yourself that question when watching the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats that perform typically in 5 shows daily in the China Pavilion. Look for the red carpet to the right when entering through the Paifang (main archway) and snag a good viewing spot while it’s still available! Young acrobats perform some incredible feats in such a small spot – plus, jaw-dropping juggling is performed as we’ve never seen before.

4 – Meet Mulan

That’s right – the beautiful warrior, Mulan, is available for a meet and greet when the World Showcase opens and into the early evening hours. Unless it is raining, Mulan is available in the same location mentioned above, where the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats perform. Check with Cast Members or look for the Meet Mulan sign for the times she is available. On rare occasions, Mulan is joined by Mushu (her charming guardian dragon) or Shang (her romance in the movie).

5 – Chinese Cuisine

The most well-known restaurant in the China Pavilion would have the be the Nine Dragons Restaurant. If the crew you are traveling with likes Chinese food, this restaurant should be on your must-do list! Guests can’t go wrong dining at Nine Dragons with the elegance inside, the unique layout, and most importantly – the fantastic menu selections. Looking for a quick service selection instead? The Lotus Blossom Café can be a great stop along the World Showcase. It’s a comfortable place to grab some yummy Chinese food and have a seat outside or keep strolling through the pavilion. Last, but not least, is the Joy of Tea stand located outside of the main pavilion, along the World Showcase path. Several flavors of tea and alcoholic beverages are available, as well as a few snacks and desserts. All this food talk is making us hungry for some Chinese food!

6 – House of Good Fortune

Check out the huge gift shop located at the back of the China Pavilion, known as the House of Good Fortune. It’s good fortune, alright that guests will be able to find just about any unique Chinese themed merchandise they could dream up for a souvenir. Apparel, housewares, accessories, and gifts – we have to watch the budget when we walk into this excellent gift shop.

Planning a trip to Epcot? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the China Pavilion around the World Showcase!