Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
To honor the opening of the Magic Kingdom in 1971, Japan's Emperor Hirohito per-
sonally presented to Roy O. Disney a stone Japanese lantern to light the way to suc-
cess and happiness. For almost ten years, the gift was on display, without any placard,
at the Polynesian Village Resort. However, with the opening of a Japan Pavilion at
World Showcase in 1982, the lantern was moved to the right-hand side of the entrance
to the pavilion. The deer on the side of the lantern represents the famous Japanese
Nara Deer Park adjacent to the Nara Prefecture's Kasuga Shrine, famous for its thou-
sands of lanterns.
Morocco Pavilion
Morocco is represented by architecture and monuments from three famous Moroccan cit-
ies: Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakesh. Koutoubia Minaret, the focal point of the pavilion, is
a replica of the 12th century Marrakesh prayer tower. Morocco is the only state-sponsored
World Showcase pavilion, and the country played an integral part in the design and con-
struction of the buildings, gardens, and Bab Boujeloud arch. The King of Morocco actually
sent his personal craftsmen to construct and lay tile in much of the pavilion, making this
one of the most authentic areas in Epcot. Because of the religious significance of many of
Morocco's buildings, lights are not shined on the pavilion during IllumiNations.
Morocco is the most-passed-over pavilion, which is unfortunate because there is a lot to
see and do, despite it not offering a major show or ride. B'net Houariyat entertains guests
with live music and dancing most days on the outdoor stage. We highly recommend taking
20-30 minutes to explore the marketplace, museum, and art gallery. Restaurant Marrakesh
is the under-rated Moroccan restaurant in the pavilion, specializing in couscous and any-
thing with a shank. A belly dancer appears inside the restaurant throughout the day. Spice
Road Table opened in late 2013, offering small Mediterranean tapas, wines, cocktails, and
desserts. It's a beautiful restaurant that overlooks the picturesque lagoon. While reserva-
tions are offered, it's virtually never necessary to book one in advance. Tangierine Café is
the quick service, featuring shawarma and falafel. While the food is a bit more expensive,
portions are large and the food is freshly prepared. It's our favorite World Showcase quick
service.
France Pavilion
The replica of the Eiffel Tower is the most recognizable feature of the France Pavilion. The
buildings are themed like those found in Paris between 1870 and 1910, otherwise known
as La Belle Epoque, or The Beautiful Time. France features a gorgeous courtyard area with
a fountain and immaculately maintained gardens.
France's main attraction is an 18-minute film titled Impressions de France . Projected
onto five large screens, Impressions provides a 200-degree panoramic view of France, its
people, and its culture. You'll experience many of France's most popular destinations, in-
cluding the gardens at Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, and the breathtaking French Alps. Un-
like the films at China or Canada, you'll be able to sit and relax during the air-conditioned
 
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