Paul Pressler explained in an interview that Tokyo has higher per-capita spending and that the cost of borrowing is less in Japan, and that's why they may spend more on some attractions.
However, I believe there are other reasons. The crowd at Tokyo seems a bit different. WDW is basically vacationers. TDR sees a lot of locals, including ones that have Starlight passes, meaning they can go every night after 5pm (I think) or 6pm. Also, TDR is a big dating scene. So I think something like the Pooh ride would have to be spectacular enough to satisfy young dating couples, and other groups of adults. I saw hordes of elderly ladies touring the park together. WDW's simple ride just wouldn't cut it, but is OK for the Florida vacationing-with-little-ones crowd.
And remember, as wonderful as TDR is, you Florida goers are still two parks up on them, so don't lament too much. (OK, maybe a little!)