Dotonbori: The Heart of Osaka's Culinary and Cultural Scene

Getting There

• Car

  From the Nara countryside, head towards the Nara Expressway, which is accessible from most rural areas. Follow the signs for the Nara-Kōen Exit and merge onto the Nishi-Meihan Expressway. Continue on the Nishi-Meihan Expressway for approximately 30 kilometers, then take the exit towards Osaka. Follow signs for Route 25 towards Osaka City. After about 15 kilometers, you will reach Dotonbori located at 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka. Be aware that parking in the Dotonbori area can be challenging and may incur costs ranging from ¥400 to ¥600 per hour.

• Train

  To reach Dotonbori using public transportation, start by taking the Kintetsu Nara Line from Nara Station to Osaka Namba Station. This journey takes approximately 40 minutes and costs around ¥560. Once you arrive at Osaka Namba Station, exit the station and walk towards Dotonbori, which is about a 10-minute walk. Look for signage indicating the direction to Dotonbori, or follow the crowds as this area is a major tourist destination.

• Bus

  If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take the Nara Kotsu Bus from various points in Nara countryside. Look for a bus heading to Osaka and disembark at the Osaka City Bus Stop. From there, you can take a city bus or walk approximately 15 minutes to reach Dotonbori. The bus fare will vary, but expect to pay around ¥800 to ¥1,000.