Dotonbori

Being a mecca for performers like Broadway, Dotonbori has thrived as a city of theatrical performances since many theaters were built on the south bank of the Dotonbori canal as a result of the policy of the Edo bakufu after the canal was excavated in the early 17th century. Today, the district is lined with many theaters for kabuki plays, Ningyojoruri (Japanese puppet show) and musical performances, continuing to serve as a mecca for performers. Flashy, outlandish signboards and objet d'arts, such as the giant Glico neon signboard, the moving billboards of Kani Doraku (a famous crab restaurant) and a humorous, likable doll called Kuidaore Taro together create a unique, vibrant cityscape, pleasing to the eyes of visitors. The streets bustle with many eating establishments where you can enjoy various Japanese gourmet food like takoyaki (octopus dumplings), kushikatsu (deep-fried meat or vegetables on a skewer), ramen and sushi.

The sixth-generation Glico neon signboard pumps with energy
When speaking of Dotonbori, most would imagine the giant Glico neon signboard perched above the Dotonbori canal. The current signboard, which was made with LED lights in 2014, is the sixth incarnation. When visiting Dotonbori, be sure to strike a pose for a photo like the runner on the board.

Enjoy a Tombori River Cruise on the Dotonbori canal
Why not take a Tombori River Cruise for a 20-minute experience where you can enjoy a moving view of Dotonbori from a different angle than usual. Your Osaka Guide Crew will explain the cityscapes seen from bridges and riversides of the Dotonbori canal with good humor. If you take a night cruise, you can enjoy the gorgeous view that is quintessentially Dotonbori where neon signboards glitter brilliantly, brightening up the riversides.

The Dotonbori canal was named to commemorate its excavator’s contribution
The name of the Dotonbori canal river comes from Doton Nariyasu (Yasui), who began to excavate the Minami Hori-kawa river at his own expense in 1612. Although he died in the Summer Siege of Osaka, his cousin Doboku took over the excavation and the canal was completed in 1615. The canal was named to honor Doton’s contribution. At Nihonbashi Kitazume Higashi you can find a monument of Doton Yasui to commemorate the achievements of Doton and Doboku in constructing the Dotonbori canal.