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Dating Around World Showcase: Leaving Footprints in China

July 7, 2018 By Tina 40 Comments

Another week, another date night!!!  Hubby and I once again took to the walkway of World Showcase at Epcot for our evening together.  This week, we ventured over to the China Pavilion, where we explored some new tastes and enjoyed some tremendous entertainment (I had no idea bodies could do that!).  We didn’t realize how quickly the night got away from us!


Disclaimer: All expenses for this evening were paid by me.  This post was not requested, nor compensated for its publication.


It was the second week of our Dating Around World Showcase commitment and yet another night where we made a crazy dash over to Epcot after a long day of work.  We were so afraid of being late for our reservation!  Honestly, I hate being late – with a passion (even thirty seconds late), but the Cast Member at the front gate reassured us that we had no need to worry.  They tend to show a lot of grace when it comes to being on time here at Walt Disney World Resort & Parks.

Dating Around World Showcase: Leaving Footprints in China ~ #epcot #fpipd #wdw #disneycouple #disneydate #china

Even so, we walked as briskly as we could across Future World and into World Showcase.  Once we crossed the bridge, we headed toward the left once again.  China is the third country on the walk around the approximately 1.3 mile stretch.  Yes, that means we skipped one, but I promise you I will cover Norway in the near future (that one has a fun ending!  You HAVE to read that one!).

I’m Hungry!!!  Let’s EAT!

As I said, we headed straight to our dining reservation.  Our choice for the evening was Nine Dragons, the table service restaurant located immediately to the left as you enter through the large Chinese Paifang Gate.  We were actually only five minutes late (internally I was stressing, but I held it in pretty well…if you can believe that), but we were seated and greeted quite promptly with smiles on Cast Member faces.

When comparing this to our last date night here in World Showcase (I know, comparing is not a nice thing to do), there is a definite difference in the atmosphere here.   That’s not to say this is a bad thing!  Goodness, no.  What I mean is that, while our dinner at San Angel Inn Restaurant in Mexico was eaten under the impression of twilight, China’s Nine Dragons has a much brighter and more colorful decor.  It was actually nice to be able to see our meals this time.

Interior of Nine Dragons
Interior of Nine Dragons ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

However, remember my mentioning in the last post that the ceilings were higher in the Mexico Pavilion and that this helped with acoustics?  Unfortunately, Nine Dragons’ lower ceiling, along with its closely placed tables and crowded dining area, made hearing for this slightly impaired gal a little more difficult.

But, I digress….

Nine Dragons sign
Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

We ordered fairly quickly – making sure we started off with something to calm the nerves.  Walking swiftly across any Disney Park is not for the faint of heart.

Our drinks of choice 

We both kind of like our drinks – when we have them – a little on the sweeter side.  Hubby’s choice this week was a Shanghai Fusion and I enjoyed the South Sea Breeze, both delicious rum concoctions.  They were exactly what we were looking to enjoy that evening and we sipped on them throughout the entire meal (one is the limit for us!).

Some adult drink choices at Nine Dragons
South Sea Breeze and Shanghai Fusion ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Appetizer

Well, you can imagine that all the hustling made us hungry!  We were famished by the time we were seated, so we decided to order an appetizer to share right away.

For some reason, we never seem to order the potstickers during the Epcot festivals, so we took a chance on them that evening.  I loved them.  They were packed very nicely and truly the perfect start to the meal.   Alongside them was served a side of soy sauce for dipping.  This added a lot of extra flavor – yum!

Plate of potstickers and soy sauce
Potstickers ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Main Dish 

For our entree, we decided to share the special they were serving that evening.  In the past, we have tried the Peking duck served at Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs and that dish was downright delicious (and expensive!).  I actually enjoy a good duck plate and, since we do not eat it that often, we thought this would be a nice way to enjoy something special together.

Crispy Savory Duck plate at Nine Dragons in Epcot
Crispy Savory Duck ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown
Crispy savory duck and slaw in bao bun at Nine Dragons in Epcot
Crispy savory duck and slaw in bao bun ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Unfortunately, the skin was EXTREMELY tough and crispy and almost too difficult to chew.  I so wish it hadn’t been – because I do love the flavor of duck meat.  The dish was served with bao buns and slaw and we were instructed by our server to create sandwiches with what was on our plate.  It ended up working out, but it wasn’t out of this world.

PSSST – Hubby said no more duck for awhile…I’m a little sad.

Sweet Tooth

Did we leave room for dessert?  Of course we did!  Why do you think we SHARE our meals?

For this visit, we were strongly encouraged to try the banana cheesecake eggrolls.   OH – EM – GOODNESS!!!  Yup – it was good.  It was the perfect way to end that meal, giving us something positive with which to walk away.

Banana cheesecake eggroll
Banana cheesecake eggroll ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Hubby took care of the scoop of ice cream that came with it (ice cream and I love each other dearly, but cannot share the same physical space), but I have to tell you that this cheesecake eggroll saved the day.  I loved – loved – loved – the banana flavor and the caramel that was drizzled all over the eggroll.  It was unique creation and bursting with flavor.  Yum – definitely worth saving some room to share.

Meet Our Cast Member, Feixiang

As always, we love to meet Cast Members.  Finding out where they are from and how they like working with Disney always fascinates us and makes us feel like the visit is more complete.

This time, we met Feixiang (sorry, I cannot even attempt to create a “sounds-like” for this.  He doesn’t deserve my butchering that for him).   But, oh my.  Such a sweet smile and kind heart.  I admit I had a difficult time hearing him with the acoustics, his accent and the crowd, but his Disney personality and customer service spoke for themselves.   At the time we met him, he had been in the area for six months, but had worked for Disney on and off some time.  He was actually involved in the training of new Cast Members coming in from China, preparing them as they go through the various stages of learning the language, learning the customs, learning the Disney culture.

Guest and Cast Member at Nine Dragons in Epcot
With Cast Member, Feixiang ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Sadly, Feixiang does not get to see his family too often while he is in the United States, but he does love the fact that modern technology allows him to stay connected.  Whether through Facetime or Skype, he makes sure to stay in touch while he is here living out a Disney dream.

QUICK NOTE: If you are looking for a quick service option, The Lotus Blossom Cafe has some great options!

Time to Explore

After dinner, we made our way over to the main building found within the pavilion.  The ginormous red and gold building is meant to be a one-half scale replica of the Temple of Heaven.  According to UNESCO, the Temple of Heaven is meant to represent the relationship between earth and heaven.  The original temple had been the site of the annual pilgrimage made by Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, during which they would offer prayers for a good harvest.

Temples of Heaven and topiary in courtyard at China Pavilion in Epcot
Courtyard in China Pavilion ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

On the way into the Temple, I took some time to capture some fabulous photographs of the courtyard with its ponds, bridges and lush green gardens.  To be honest, this is one of my favorites sections of the World Showcase to photograph ~ such gorgeous landscaping and architecture.

Courtyard in China Pavilion Photo credit: Tina M. Brown
Courtyard in China Pavilion ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Temple of Heaven

We walked immediately into a room that is said to have extraordinary and perfect acoustics!  Even the slightest whisper is meant to be heard.

Inside Temple of Heaven at China Pavilion in Epcot
Inside Temple of Heaven ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Everything inside the Temple is meant to be symbolic – from the four central pillars representing the four seasons to the twelve outer pillars representing the twelve months of the year, as well as twelve years in the Chinese calendar.  It’s absolutely and stunningly gorgeous inside – breathtaking and majestic.

Circle-Vision 360º Movie

While gazing upon the artistic perfection surrounding us, we noticed that they were just closing the doors to the theater for another showing of “Reflections of China.”  We raced in to the standing-room-only theater and found ourselves right in the middle.  This film showcases China in all its 360° glory, sharing both its history and scenery.  It’s a fabulous way to “travel” there and introduce yourself to the culture and landscapes China has to offer.

 

Signage for Reflections of China at Epcot
Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

I do need to warn you, though.  If you experience motion sickness, there is the possibility for some vertigo.  Unfortunately, I felt victim to it and had a very difficult time focusing on the film.  I did make it through, however, and did enjoy as much as I could.   China is spectacularly gorgeous!

Chinese Acrobats

Back in 2007, when we visited Walt Disney World for the first time as a family, this was one of the highlights ~ watching the Chinese Acrobats out in the courtyard.  Our oldest son was fascinated with them at that point and watched with such intent!  A few years later, on a cool New Year Eve’s morning, we had watched them again, but inside the Temple of Heaven.  Sadly, they were not as entertaining there.

Chinese acrobats at China Pavilion in Epcot
Chinese acrobats ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

This go round, they were FABULOUS!  The crowd was thick and energized with excitement.  The temperature was perfect and we found ourselves a great seat right up at the rope.  The things these acrobats can do are phenomenal and the entire audience loved every minute of the performance.

Time to Browse

At that point, we were ready to browse through the shops before calling it a night.  It was far past the time to snap a picture with Mulan and the sun was beginning to set.

We pushed our way to the back of the pavilion and first roamed through a section dedicated to Shanghai Disneyland.  It was fun to look at the map and cast member costumes they use over there.

figures of items representing things seen at Shanghai Disneyland
Room dedicated to Shanghai Disneyland ~ Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Merchandise

Moving on, we started to browse through the merchandise and found tons of absolutely gorgeous items.  From exquisitely crafted statues, gorgeously designed lanterns, various cat and panda figures and……yes, of course, hats, we found ourselves spending a great deal of time exploring and trying things on.

Merchandise in China Pavilion at Epcot
Photo credit: Tina M. Brown
Chinese lanterns found at Epcot
Photo credit: Tina M. Brown

Another Ending To a Magical Evening

It was dark by the time we were ready to call it a night.  Illuminations was just about to begin and, to be honest, the park was nearly empty.  With Flower & Garden having just finished and the walkways emptied of the outdoor kitchens, it seemed, at times, as if there were only a handful of people there.

We watched the fireworks as we made our way to the front of the park.  It had been another full night of fun, exploration, meeting new people and trying new things.  We were reconnecting, enjoying each other’s company and experiencing Disney Magic in our way.

Our Next Date Will Be…

Well, next time, I plan to go backwards and cater to my OCD.  Skipping a country was tough for me – lol, but we weren’t ready to experience Norway and I’m okay with that.  The time we did spend there ended up being an adventure in and of itself.

Oh, now I can’t wait to share!  Stay tuned!


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Filed Under: Dating Around World Showcase Series Tagged With: Disney

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Stacey says

    July 10, 2018 at 2:11 PM

    I love these date posts you do! We just returned from our most recent trip, so you help me get my Disney fix. We live in Missouri, and we’ve been going every other year. Next year we’re going to try to road trip it to Disneyland, though! My husband is a picky eater, so I like to read these to see if there is any possibility of eating at certain places. I got him into San Angel Inn this trip, but he didn’t order any food. Ha! I have considered this one, but I’m not sure. He likes plain chicken and white rice, so maybe? Thanks for these and keep them coming!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 10, 2018 at 2:34 PM

      Awww – thanks so much for those very sweet and kind words, Stacey!!! I’m glad you are enjoying the dating posts!! I’m sure he might be able to find something at Nine Dragons – or you could even take him over to Lotus Blossom Cafe next door to see if he finds anything he likes there. Quick side note: We actually did our very first trip to Florida when we lived in Missouri. That was such a fun and memorable adventure!! Our boys LOVE road trips, so I wish you all the luck and safety on your driving adventure to California next year!! Thanks for the read and for following along – it means the world to me!!!

      Reply
  2. Pam says

    July 12, 2018 at 12:40 PM

    So fun! I can’t wait to read your next country! The last time we were at Epcot (February), we ate at the Spice Road Table – it was lovely sitting by the water. We ordered a bunch of appetizers and a few drinks and shared it all. Very relaxing break in a busy Disney day!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 12:45 PM

      Awww – thanks, Pam!!!! Our “trip” to Norway will be out on Friday – stay tuned!! Hubby is looking forward to visiting the Morocco Pavilion, a little more than I am. The way you described your dinner there, however, hmmm…..I am a little more intrigued. LOL. This series has been fun to create. I appreciate your following along! 👣

      Reply
  3. Megan says

    July 12, 2018 at 1:39 PM

    This is such a cute idea! I haven’t been to Epcot since the 80s…it sounds like so much has changed!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 1:43 PM

      Oh, my goodness, Megan!! A lot has changed since then and even more is coming! A Guardians of the Galaxy coaster, a Ratatouille ride…..those all in store for the future. The next date night post will talk more about the Frozen Ever After attraction that came to Epcot’s Norway Pavilion just a little over a year ago. Thanks for the read and I hope you follow along!

      Reply
  4. Jocelyn says

    July 12, 2018 at 2:40 PM

    This one would be my favorite! The food, the culture, the architecture! I love it all. And, these are great date night ideas. So fun and different!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 2:42 PM

      Thanks, Jocelyn!! There is so much do to in this pavilion – I was shocked! I mean, I knew that stuff was there, but taking the time to really explore it has made all the difference. You’re right – the food, culture and architecture are all fabulous!! Thanks for the read! Norway is next – keep an eye out 😉

      Reply
  5. Kristi @ Way Beyond The Norm says

    July 12, 2018 at 5:02 PM

    I’m not one for the food in China, but aren’t the acrobats amazing? We are Disney fanatics, so I’ve been loving following this series you’re doing.

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 5:05 PM

      Love meeting another Disney fanatic!! Thanks for the read and for following the series, Kristi! Yes, the acrobats ARE amazing. I’m working on the video now and hoping to incorporate what I caught. 😉👣

      Reply
  6. Ina @ Crafty For Home says

    July 12, 2018 at 5:22 PM

    You are so lucky having a wonderful date night like this, so much to see, so much to learn, and that crispy savory duck, hmmm yumm

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 5:25 PM

      LOL – I wish it wasn’t as crispy as it was, though. The meat was good and so was dessert. Yum!! And yes, I definitely count my blessings and am still finding our recent move very surreal. I do hope that people are finding these posts encouraging and inspiring!! Thanks for the read, Ina!!

      Reply
  7. Katy says

    July 12, 2018 at 7:12 PM

    I could spend hours browsing in that shop!

    Reply
  8. gail says

    July 12, 2018 at 8:26 PM

    ummm, I think I’ll just go for dessert! Looks so good!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 8:28 PM

      LOL!!!! Oh, my gosh – that sounds perfect. It was delicious, Gail. The combination of flavors was amazing.

      Reply
  9. Janine says

    July 12, 2018 at 8:37 PM

    I love this idea that you two are doing. And the China pavilion looks like a great place for a date night! The show with the acrobats looks like a lot of fun

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 12, 2018 at 8:44 PM

      Thanks so much, Janine!!! Yes – definitely having a blast putting these evenings together. The acrobats were spectacular to watch!!!

      Reply
  10. Kristi Ann says

    July 12, 2018 at 10:49 PM

    I am pretty sure I can’t think of a better date than this! How amazing!!

    Reply
  11. Tina says

    July 13, 2018 at 10:43 AM

    So colorful! I love the Chinese acrobats so much.

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 13, 2018 at 10:54 AM

      I agree – so fun to watch!!! I can’t imagine being able to contort like that – oh my!! LOL.

      Reply
  12. Ashley says

    July 13, 2018 at 5:01 PM

    Wonderful post! I felt like I was there! And I want one of each of those scrumptious looking drinks!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 13, 2018 at 5:09 PM

      Thanks, Ashley!! Oh, that makes me smile to hear someone say that it made them feel like they were there! Mission accomplished! LOL. And yes – the drinks were very “scrumptious.” Thanks for the read!!! Be sure to check out the post on the date at the Norway Pavilion – just published!

      Reply
  13. Annick says

    July 13, 2018 at 8:45 PM

    I love these date nights! I’ve been following along but you’ve won me over with the banana cheesecake egg rolls! I really like that you are spending time together!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 13, 2018 at 8:54 PM

      Well, first of all – huge thanks for following along!! We are having a great time exploring and I’m so glad everyone is enjoying the series. Second, oh yes – that dessert was fabulous!!! Keep that on your foodie bucket list. Norway is next, followed by Germany and Italy…..can’t wait to share those with you guys. 👣. Thanks again, Annick!!

      Reply
  14. Heidi says

    July 13, 2018 at 9:51 PM

    I love China in Epcot! It’s such a fun little area. 🙂

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 13, 2018 at 10:03 PM

      It is!! What’s your favorite part about it, Heidi? Food, acrobats, landscape, the 360 degree Circle Vision movie or the shops?

      Reply
  15. Dominique says

    July 14, 2018 at 6:29 PM

    Wow, what an amazing post! I can’t wait to travel to Disney World someday! (hopefully in the next 2 years)

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 14, 2018 at 6:40 PM

      Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is just as magical as being here sometimes, so have fun in the process! Believe me ~ the time in between will go fast and you will be here before you know it! I hope you get to visit soon and thank you sooo much for the read!!!

      Reply
  16. Katie says

    July 15, 2018 at 8:27 PM

    What a cool date night! Does the price include entry to the park, or can you dine at Epcot without buying a park ticket?

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 15, 2018 at 9:01 PM

      Hi, Katie!! Thanks for the read!! In order to eat at Epcot, you have to be in the park ~ as a passholder or having purchased a ticket. If getting into the parks is not an option, Disney Springs has some amazing restaurants and visiting there is free (even parking!!). I have a few reviews on the blog for places we ate there – in case you’re interested 😉

      Reply
  17. Erin says

    July 16, 2018 at 1:01 AM

    What a lovely date night!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 16, 2018 at 6:52 AM

      Thanks! We had a great time together 😊

      Reply
  18. Ruth Iaela-Pukahi says

    July 19, 2018 at 6:48 AM

    I enjoy reading your dates around the world! I look forward to our turn one day. I’m sorry you didn’t have a great experience with your duck sandwich. That is one of my favorite dishes at Chinese restaurants in Hawaii. I think you need to come to Hawaii for some good Chinese food. We usually have many courses and this dish would be at the beginning of the dinner. lol. I haven’t see that dessert though!

    Reply
    • Tina says

      July 19, 2018 at 7:51 AM

      Hawaii is certainly on my bucket list, Ruth!! I have a good friend stationed there right now who has asked me to come visit. I really need to consider it. Thanks for reading the series ~ we are having a great time exploring World Showcase. ☺✨👣

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Dating Around World Showcase: Leaving Footprints in Norway - Footprints in Pixie Dust says:
    July 19, 2018 at 9:21 AM

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  2. Dating Around World Showcase: Leaving Footprints in Italy - Footprints in Pixie Dust says:
    August 22, 2018 at 11:16 AM

    […] China […]

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  3. Celebrating the Chinese New Year? Try Chef Morimoto's Sticky Spare Ribs! · Footprints in Pixie Dust says:
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