Dotonbori: Osaka's Dazzling Entertainment District
Experience Osaka's vibrant nightlife, dazzling lights, and delicious street food in the iconic Dotonbori entertainment district.
Dotonbori is a vibrant entertainment district in Osaka, Japan, known for its dazzling neon lights, extravagant signage, and diverse culinary scene. Historically a theater district, it has evolved into a popular nightlife and tourist destination, epitomizing Osaka's energetic spirit. The area runs along the Dotonbori canal, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tantalizing aromas.
A brief summary to Dotonbori
- 1 Chome Dotonbori, Osaka, 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, JP
- +816-6211-4542
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit both during the day and at night to experience Dotonbori's different atmospheres.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and evenings.
- Try Osaka's famous street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
- Look up to see the interesting sights and extravagant signs above eye level.
- Explore the back alleys for hidden gems and local secrets.
Getting There
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Walking
Dotonbori is easily walkable from nearby areas like Namba and Shinsaibashi. From Namba Station, walk north towards Shinsaibashi; the Dotonbori River divides the two districts. The Glico Running Man sign on Ebisubashi bridge is a central landmark. Walking along Dotonbori street, which runs parallel to the canal's southern bank, is the best way to experience the area. Expect crowds, especially in the evenings. There are no admission fees for Dotonbori itself.
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Public Transport
The closest subway stations are Namba Station (Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae Lines) and Nippombashi Station (Sakaisuji and Sennichimae Lines). From Osaka Station or Umeda Station, take the Midosuji Line to Namba Station. A single subway fare within Osaka city typically costs ¥190-¥330 depending on the distance. Consider purchasing an Osaka One-Day Metro Pass for unlimited travel. From Namba station it is approximately a 3 minute walk to Dotonbori.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Osaka. A short taxi ride from Osaka Station to Dotonbori (approximately 3 km) typically costs ¥2,200 - ¥2,700. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Using a ride-sharing service may also be an option. There are no specific drop-off points, so ask to be dropped off at a convenient location near Dotonbori, such as near Ebisubashi Bridge.
Discover more about Dotonbori
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ebisubashi Bridge
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Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street
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Shinsaibashi Shopping Street Promotion Association
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Zyanose-Loveless-EP Rooftop
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Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Zyanose-Loveless-EP Rooftop, a must-visit landmark in Osaka that highlights the city's architectural beauty.
3-chōme-1-15 Namba
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Triangle Park (Sankaku Park)
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Shinsaibashi
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Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
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Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine
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Nipponbashi Denden Town
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Shingonzaka
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Kuchinawazaka
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Osaka Localized - Free Walking Tours in Osaka
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Tsūtenkaku
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Isshin-ji Temple
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dotonbori Glico Sign
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Experience Osaka's vibrant heart at the iconic Dotonbori Glico Sign, a dazzling landmark that embodies the city's energy and spirit.
Glico
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Osaka's iconic neon runner, the Glico Running Man sign has been lighting up Dotonbori since 1935, symbolizing the city's vibrant energy.
Osaka Shochikuza Theatre
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Discover the magic of Kabuki theater at Osaka Shochikuza Theatre, nestled in the vibrant Dotonbori district, a must-visit cultural landmark.
Dotonbori Bridge
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Explore Dotonbori Bridge in Osaka, where vibrant nightlife meets delicious street food in a stunning urban landscape.
Pure
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Osaka at Pure Night Club, where live music and an electric atmosphere await every night.
The Sound Garden
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Dotombori Tsuribori
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Discover the serene escape of Dotombori Tsuribori, a fishing pond in Osaka where urban vibrancy meets peaceful waters.
Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum
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Namba HIPS
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Ukiyo Koji
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Hozenji Mizukake Fudoson Temple
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Hozen-ji Temple
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Jankara Dotombori(KARAOKE)
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Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel
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Soar high above Osaka at the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, where breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences await every tourist.
1-chōme-7-24 Dōtonbori
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Discover the vibrant energy of Dotonbori, Osaka’s iconic entertainment district filled with neon lights, delicious street food, and unforgettable experiences.
Essential places to dine
Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch
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Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch – a seafood haven specializing in exquisite crab dishes.
Teppan Toyoshimake
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Experience the art of teppanyaki at Teppan Toyoshimake in Osaka's Dotonbori district—where every meal is a show and every bite is unforgettable.
Osaka Ohsho
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Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Osaka Ohsho in Dotonbori - where every dish is a flavorful journey through tradition.
Dotonbori Ichiaki
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Experience authentic okonomiyaki at Dotonbori Ichiaki – where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Osaka's vibrant Dotonbori district.
Riverside Izakaya
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海鮮居酒屋 夢とんぼ
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Dotonbori Imai - Main Shop
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Matsusakagyu yakiniku
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Teppan Jinja
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Ichiran Ramen Dotonburi - Main Building
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Ichiran Ramen Dotonbori - South Building
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Teppan-ryori Sasuke
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Showa-taishu-horumon Dotombori
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Okonomiyaki Bonkuraya Dotombori
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Teppan Osaka
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cuida Ore
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D.k
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OGURAYA Co.,Ltd.
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Ichibiri-an Dotonbori store
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Sanrio Gift Gate
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Don Quijote Dotonbori Midosuji
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Experience the eclectic charm of Don Quijote Dotonbori Midosuji, Osaka's ultimate discount shopping destination for beauty, fashion, and more.
LAWSON Dotonbori Store
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【Souvenirs】GOTO-CHI Namba
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Namba Walk
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Rikuro’s Namba Main Branch
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Laox
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Object Osaka store
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BOSS Store Osaka
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BRAND JIKU(時久)東心斎橋店
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Osaka Takashimaya
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar N
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bar moon walk Nanbaten
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Bar Core
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Discover Bar Core, a vibrant bar in Dotonbori, Osaka, where unique drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
Bar Masuda
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IRISH PUB DUBLIN BAY / DUBLIN GARDEN
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Main Bar Spirits
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BAR GROTTO 洞窟バー グロット
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Bar Sou
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Zerro
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Osaka at Zerro, a bar renowned for its innovative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere.
Bros Bar
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HUB Shinsaibashi
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Voyager Stand
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Crystal Bar
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The Drunken Clam
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Subterra Cocktail Bar
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