This is an interactive walk-through attraction . PHOTO BY JUDD HELMS
EPCOT delicately balances nostalgic reverence for its founding concepts and innovative experiences for the next generation of guests . Having recently celebrated its 40th anniversary and completed one of the final stages of its multi-year revitalization project , EPCOT continues to showcase the best creativity Disney has to offer , including its newest walk-through attraction .
WE KNOW THE WAY That new attraction is Journey of Water , Inspired by Moana , which Disney bills as “ an outdoor exploration trail where water comes to life .” Brimming with interactive elements , hidden Disney character details , lush landscapes , and self-led fun , this experience is peak EPCOT . Journey of Water masterfully marries the art and storytelling of Disney animation with the edutainment philosophy of Walt Disney World ’ s second park .
Mohamad Bahlawan . © DISNEY
We had the opportunity to speak with Mohamad Bahlawan , Show Technical Production Manager , Walt Disney Imagineering , about his experience helping to bring this project to life . In the film , the water is very much alive , a distinct character in its own right with personality , emotions ,
Guests can control how water moves . PHOTO BY JUDD HELMS
and motivations . So how did Imagineers translate that to an attraction ?
“ That was honestly the most challenging part … teaching the water how to play in a way that felt organic and felt natural to the guests ,” Mohamad told WDW Magazine . “ How do we make this feel like it is a conversation between the guest and the water itself ? That ’ s a unique aspect of this attraction , and it helps us in programming and getting the technical side to respond to a guest in an appropriate manner .”
While the typical EPCOT guest may be rushing from Lightning Lane to Lightning Lane or hurrying around World Showcase to grab a drink in all 11 countries , Journey of Water is decidedly more laid-back . Imagineers don ’ t want you to rush through this attraction . Guests who take their time to explore and play amongst the water features will have the most rewarding experience .