Dotonbori: Osaka's Dazzling Entertainment District

Experience Osaka's vibrant nightlife, dazzling lights, and delicious street food in the iconic Dotonbori entertainment district. A must-see!

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Dotonbori

Dotonbori, the dazzling heart of Osaka, has been a center of entertainment and commerce since the early 17th century. In 1612, Yasui Doton initiated a project to expand the Umezu River into a canal, linking it to the Kizugawa River and boosting trade. Although Doton died during the Siege of Osaka, his cousins completed the canal, naming it in his honor. In 1621, the Tokugawa Shogunate designated Dotonbori as Osaka's official entertainment district, attracting kabuki and bunraku theaters, restaurants, and teahouses. While the theater scene has diminished, the Shochikuza theater still hosts performances. Today, Dotonbori is renowned as a gastronomic paradise, embodying Osaka's *kuidaore* culture—eating until you drop. The district is famous for its eye-catching signage, including the iconic Glico Running Man. This advertisement, first erected in 1935, has become a beloved symbol of Osaka. Other notable signs include a giant pufferfish, an octopus, and the Kani Doraku crab. Visitors can stroll along the Tombori River Walk, take a river cruise, and explore the Ebisubashi-suji and Shinsaibashi-suji shopping streets. Dotonbori offers a mix of history, food, and entertainment, making it a unique destination.

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 iconic street foods like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Look up to see some of the most interesting sights and extravagant signs.
Take a river cruise to see Dotonbori from a different perspective.

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A brief summary to Dotonbori

Osaka, Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, JP

Getting There

Public Transport

Dotonbori is easily accessible via public transport. The closest station is Namba Station, which is served by multiple lines, including the Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae lines on the Osaka Metro. From Namba Station, Dotonbori is a short walk. A one-way subway ticket from Osaka Station to Namba Station costs approximately ¥240. The Osaka One-Day Metro Pass can also be used.
Walking

Dotonbori is located within walking distance of several other popular areas in Osaka, including Shinsaibashi and Namba Parks. From Shinsaibashi, walk south towards the Dotonbori Canal. The Glico Running Man sign on Ebisubashi Bridge is a central landmark. Navigating Dotonbori is best done on foot due to the high pedestrian traffic.
Taxi

Taxis are available throughout Osaka. A taxi from Osaka Station to Dotonbori typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥2,200 and ¥2,700. Taxi stands are located near major train stations and hotels.