Let’s be real — Disney World ain’t cheap. Sure, there are plenty of deals and discounts you can find on tickets, hotels, and even food. But what about when it comes to those precious Disney World souvenirs?!
Japan Pavilion
As someone who goes to the parks while ballin’ on a budget (do people still say that?) frequently, I’m always on the hunt for unique souvenirs I can bring home that don’t break the bank. So, when I found this $5 souvenir in the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT, I knew I’d be purchasing it immediately — and I’ve continued to do so again and again.
Confession: I can’t stop buying incense from the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT. For me, an EPCOT trip is not complete unless I take a casual stroll through the Mitsukoshi Department Store, which is home to all sorts of imported Japanese goodies. We’re talking toys, housewares, apparel, snacks and candy, and as you might have guessed, quite a range of incense.
Mitsukoshi Department Store
It all started when I was walking through the store, and an incredible smell wafted into my nostrils — it reminded me of the smell during the Tortuga scene on Pirates of the Caribbean. It was kind of a mix of florals, the sweet rum smell, and the bromine from the water. Turns out, it was this Aqua incense from Nippon Kodo. I immediately purchased it, and now I have a terrible habit of buying a new scent almost every time I step into the store (which is pretty often).
Aqua incense
At this point, I have ten different types of incense from Mitsukoshi, though many of which can be found online, too! They’re relatively inexpensive, though some brands and scents are more expensive than others; but you’ll typically find them anywhere between $5 and $20 per box.
The Aqua one might just be my favorite, but I really like this Lotus scented one…
Lotus incense
…and this Cypress scent gives off a warm, woodsy vibe.
Cypress is nice and woodsy
The best part about this souvenir is that it’s the gift that keeps on giving — each box contains at least 25 sticks of incense, meaning you definitely get your money’s worth! You won’t find many Disney World souvenirs that have that going for them, so I consider this a win-win. Plus, who wouldn’t want their house to smell like Pirates of the Caribbean?! Weird people, that’s who.
Evidence of my addiction
We’ll be on the lookout for even more fun souvenirs you can find at EPCOT and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest news from Disney World and more!
I Spent $24.99 For This in the Norway Pavilion in EPCOT, and I’d Do It Again in a Heartbeat
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I lived in Mexico decades ago so sometimes will pick up something there. I love to get Xmas ornaments as souvenirs so that’s at Germany. At Japan, I’m in love with Botan rice candy but will definitely now check out the incense. I used to pick up Nordic items in Norway (skiwear, straw ornaments, etc) but Frozen kinda ruined that. I never know what I might find in the UK stores!
That incense is wonderful. A small holder and a box of the sticks will fit in almost anyone’s suitcase and make a nice way to remember your trip or as a gift. I also buy packs of the exquisite origami papers that come in two sizes and are priced at $10 or less. Hard to find paper of such quality where I live, and though I don’t scrapbook myself, those who do might enjoy picking up some for their crafting. All the World Showcase countries have great items to take home even if your budget is only that ten dollars grandma gave you for the trip.
I do not understand why this store does not apply the passholder discount.