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Dotonbori, the bustling heart of Osaka, is a must-visit area known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich culinary culture. Situated in the Minami district, Dotonbori is a symbol of Osaka’s vibrant food scene, featuring an array of large billboards, lively shopping streets, and numerous restaurants offering Osaka’s famous delicacies. It truly is an entertainment space that appeals to all the senses.
In this article, we will highlight the top tourist spots in the Dotonbori area, provide insights into unique experiences, and recommend must-visit establishments. Dive into the exciting world of Dotonbori and discover its endless charm!
Dotonbori is classified as part of Minami, located between Shinsaibashi and Namba. Specifically, it refers to the area stretching from the south side of the Dotonbori River to Namba Station.
This area is home to Osaka’s iconic spots, including the famous Glico sign and dazzling neon signs.
The history of Dotonbori began in 1612 when Yasui Doton developed this new area. Initially filled with theaters, it soon became bustling with people. Over time, merchants set up shops, and more restaurants and theaters emerged. The modern-day Dotonbori took shape during the late Edo period to the Meiji era.
The heart of Dotonbori is the Dotonbori Shopping Street, located on the south side of the Dotonbori River. It stretches approximately 500 meters from Dotonboribashi to Nipponbashi.
The Dotonbori Shopping Street is always lively, making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. It’s an excellent place for shopping and sampling various street foods.
Dotonbori Shopping Street is known as a gourmet paradise, featuring many of Osaka’s signature dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.
Many tourists enjoy street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki here. Takoyaki shops, in particular, are always busy, offering freshly cooked takoyaki with a crispy exterior and creamy interior.
One of the most popular spots is “Takoyaki Juuhachiban Dotonbori,” famous for its long lines. The takoyaki here is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, providing an authentic taste of Osaka.
Juuhachiban is renowned for its creamy takoyaki, especially popular among women.
Read more about Takoyaki Juuhachiban Dotonbori
Another Osaka specialty is okonomiyaki. Among the many okonomiyaki restaurants in Dotonbori Shopping Street, “Bonkura-ya” is highly recommended.
Bonkura-ya is known for its fluffy okonomiyaki and a variety of teppanyaki dishes. With so many okonomiyaki restaurants to choose from, this place is a safe bet if you’re unsure where to go.
Read more about Bonkura-ya Dotonbori
Dotonbori Shopping Street is lined with eye-catching signs and objects, making it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
Kuidaore Taro, the symbol of Osaka, is a popular photo spot. The statue is located at the entrance of the souvenir shop “Kuidaore Taro Honpo” on the first floor of the Nakaza Kuidaore Building.
The giant crab statue at the Kani Doraku restaurant is another iconic landmark. The huge crab sign at Kani Doraku is easily recognizable and attracts many tourists. The restaurant is known for its fresh crab dishes, drawing crowds, especially in the winter season.
With many such uniquely designed storefronts, Dotonbori creates a distinctive atmosphere that is uniquely Osaka, making it fun to explore just by walking around.
Located at the heart of Dotonbori Shopping Street, Ebisu Bridge is one of the landmarks of Dotonbori.
The view of the Dotonbori River from this bridge is iconic. The bridge is always bustling with tourists taking photos, day and night.
The Glico sign, a symbolic spot in Dotonbori, is known as the “Running Man” among English speakers. It can be viewed from Ebisu Bridge.
First installed in 1935, the Glico sign is a massive billboard measuring 33 meters high and 5 meters wide, and it has become a beloved landmark of Dotonbori. The design has evolved over time, with the current one being the 6th generation, featuring the latest LED technology. The area in front of the sign is a popular photo spot, always crowded with tourists.
Tourists enjoy taking memorable photos in front of the Glico sign, striking the classic pose or capturing unique angles.
At night, the sign is illuminated, offering a different, magical atmosphere.
Tazaemon Bridge, located east of Ebisu Bridge, is another main bridge crossing the Dotonbori River.
Tazaemon Bridge is the oldest bridge over the Dotonbori River. However, the urban and beautiful scenery viewed from the bridge is popular among tourists.
At night, the illuminated cityscape creates a fantastic atmosphere.
From the bridge, you can view the bustling activity along the Dotonbori River. Nearby, there are many okonomiyaki restaurants, popular with both tourists and locals.
At the foot of Tazaemon Bridge is the boarding point for the Dotonbori River Cruise. This popular attraction offers a 20-minute ride to enjoy the scenery of Dotonbori from the water.
The view of Dotonbori from the water offers a unique perspective. The night cruises are particularly recommended, as you can enjoy the neon-lit cityscape.
Read more about Dotonbori River Cruise
Dotonboribashi is one of the bridges crossing the Dotonbori River, located at the western end of Dotonbori Shopping Street. From this bridge, you can get a beautiful view of the Dotonbori River.
Along National Route 26, which passes over Dotonboribashi, there are many restaurants bustling with activity every night.
Dotonboribashi is the starting point for Dotonbori sightseeing. It is recommended to first visit this bridge, enjoy the overall view of the Dotonbori area from the bridge, and then enter Dotonbori Shopping Street and Dotonbori 2-chome Shopping Street.
Sennichimae Shopping Street extends south from Dotonbori Shopping Street to Namba Station.
Sennichimae Shopping Street and the alleys extending from it are home to many hidden gem restaurants. These long-established restaurants are beloved by locals, preserving the traditional Osaka atmosphere.
Highly recommended are “Jiyuken” and “Akaoni.”
Jiyuken is a long-established diner with over 100 years of history. Its “Famous Curry” is extremely popular, often drawing long lines.
Read more about Jiyuken
Akaoni is a takoyaki specialty shop. Featured in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years, it is one of Osaka’s top takoyaki places.
Read more about Akaoni
While most tourists visit Dotonbori Shopping Street, the true enthusiasts also explore Sennichimae Shopping Street and its alleys. With many hidden gem restaurants, it’s worth extending your exploration here to fully enjoy the Osaka atmosphere.
When visiting Dotonbori, there are various ways to enjoy the area, including shopping, street food, and river cruises. After highlighting the best spots in Dotonbori, let’s summarize the best ways to enjoy your visit.
One of the main attractions in Dotonbori is street food. Tasting Osaka’s famous delicacies like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu while strolling through the streets is a must-do for tourists. Besides the mentioned takoyaki and okonomiyaki, you can also find kushikatsu, kitsune udon, and Osaka’s unique “ika-yaki” sold all around Dotonbori.
Popular places might have long lines, but waiting is part of the fun. Strolling around and exploring the area is highly recommended.
Dotonbori Shopping Street has many shopping spots, making it perfect for buying souvenirs and keepsakes. Items unique to Osaka, such as local goods and foods, are especially popular.
Exploring Dotonbori from a cruise boat is another enjoyable way. A sightseeing boat allows you to leisurely enjoy the riverside scenery.
From the cruise, you can view Dotonbori’s landmarks from a different angle, experiencing Osaka’s energetic side.
The cruises do not require reservations, allowing you to hop on anytime. The 20-minute duration makes it an easy and popular activity.
The Dotonbori Riverwalk is a pedestrian path along the Dotonbori River. It provides a break from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to enjoy the city’s atmosphere at a slower pace.
Walking along the river at dusk or night when the area is illuminated is highly recommended. You might discover a new side of Dotonbori.
Dotonbori is a condensed area full of Osaka’s charm, offering gourmet food, sightseeing, and entertainment. The lively shopping streets, beautiful bridges, cityscapes, and delicious food make it a place where just walking around is enjoyable. Every visit brings new discoveries, with the vibrant signs and lively atmosphere leaving a lasting impression.
The charm of Dotonbori is too vast to summarize in one sentence. It’s a place where you can find new attractions with every visit. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori while exploring Osaka’s cuisine and tourist spots. It’s sure to become a memorable experience.
After taking memorable photos at the Glico sign and Ebisu Bridge, enjoy street food in Dotonbori Shopping Street. Take a relaxing break on a river cruise to appreciate the scenery from the water. Each activity offers a unique and quintessentially Osaka experience.
Dotonbori offers many attractions and restaurants. To make the most of your limited time, it’s recommended to list the places you want to visit beforehand. The spots introduced here are all popular and packed with highlights for tourists. Feel the energy of Osaka while having a great time in Dotonbori. The vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and warm interactions with locals will undoubtedly create wonderful memories.
Lastly, since Dotonbori is a crowded place, please enjoy your visit while being mindful of good manners. Enjoy your trip to Dotonbori!
