The EPCOT Japan Pavilion (World Showcase) features an impressive stone fortress gate with a moat . The fortress gate is located in the back of the pavilion. We later read that it is a replica of a 17th century fortress known as the White Heron Castle.We expected to find something equally dramatic behind the gate but instead, entered the Bijutsu-kan Gallery. This small exhibit introduces visitors to kawaii culture (Hello Kitty is a popular example of kawaii culture). Unless you're into kawaii, this probably will be a 5-10 minute stop.The fortress gate also opens to the large Mitsukoshi Dept Store (outpost of a Japanese dept store chain founded in the 1670s) that we feel is one of the best shops in EPCOT. Lots of fun Hello Kitty merchandise here.

The EPCOT Japan Pavilion (World Showcase) features an impressive stone fortress gate with a moat (we later read that it is a replica of a 17th century fortress known as the White Heron Castle). The fortress gate is located in the back of the pavilion.We expected to find something equally dramatic behind the gate but instead, entered the Bijutsu-kan Gallery. This small exhibit introduces visitors to kawaii culture (think Hello Kitty, a popular example of kawaii culture). Unless you're into kawaii, this probably will be a 5-10 minute stop.The fortress gate also opens to the large Mitsukoshi Dept Store (outpost of a Japanese dept store chain founded in the 1670s) that we feel is one of the best shops in EPCOT. Lots of fun Hello Kitty merchandise here.

My wife and I looked through the Bijutsu-Kan Gallery on our recent visit to EPCOT. It is located toward the back of the Japan Pavilion in the World Showcase. It is a display of Japanese art that focuses on the cute themes in the art and culture of Japan. It is an interesting display. If someone is a fan of Japanese culture, especially Japanese pop-culture, they will really like this place.

It’s pretty cool how empty it is in here - nobody seems to be aware of it, maybe they think it’s a prop?

This exhibit, in the Japan pavilion, was so much more than cute; it was fascinating.We had no idea that Kawaii was such a strong and significant influence in Japanese culture. Though somewhat small, this exhibit provided a great deal of historic and visual information. And, being inside; it also provides a nice respite, if the outside weather is uninviting. This is another one of those unharolded little gems, sprinkled throughout the Disney parks.