Dotonbori is an entertainment district in Osaka, in Japan's Kansai Region, and it is best known for its neon signs, its street food and the Glico running man billboard that has become one of the city's most recognisable images. It is a lively place to spend an evening, and most visitors come to walk its canal-side streets and watch the lights come on.
What to expect
- Neon and signage: Bright, layered signs line the streets and reflect on the water, making the area especially photogenic after dark.
- Street food: Stalls and small eateries along the streets are a central part of the experience, and eating as you walk is a common way to explore.
- The running man: The Glico billboard is the district's landmark and a popular spot for photographs.
Making the most of a visit
Dotonbori is busy, particularly in the evening and at weekends, so it helps to allow time to move slowly and to pause where the crowds thin. Because the district sits within a larger entertainment and shopping area, you can easily combine a walk here with other nearby streets and the wider city around it.
If you enjoy lively urban scenes, good food and the atmosphere of a busy night district, Dotonbori is a natural choice while in Osaka. It suits both a short stroll and a longer evening out.