Dotonbori Tours

Dotonbori featuring city views and outdoor art as well as a large group of people
Dotonbori which includes boating, a city and a river or creek
Dotonbori featuring a river or creek, a city and night scenes
Dotonbori featuring signage, a city and street scenes
Dotonbori showing street scenes, city views and a city


Experience the colorful neon heart of Osaka along this canal, where travelers, couples and entertainment seekers throng the streets.

Marvel at the illuminated billboards and savor gourmet meals at Dotonbori, Osaka's primary entertainment district. This glitzy precinct, situated around the Dotonbori Canal, offers diverse shopping, compelling landmarks and a large selection of high-quality Japanese restaurants.

Dotonbori was first developed by local businessman Yasui Doton in 1612. Over the subsequent century, the area was designated as Osaka's entertainment district and hosted a number of kabuki and bunraku theaters. Enjoy the same activities more than 400 years later.

Today the district's lively entertainment spirit endures. See bunraku puppet shows, explore high-rise shopping plazas and join milling crowds on its neon-lit streets. Admire the Glico billboard its depiction of a victorious athlete has become an Osaka icon. This famous landmark, installed in 1935, is a popular meeting place for groups of friends.

Wander Dotonbori Avenue, running parallel to the canal, to find the Kani Doraku crab. This huge mechanical crustacean is displayed above the entrance to a well-known crab restaurant. Also look for the nearby Kuidaore Taro, a mechanical drum-playing clown.

Step away from the Dotonbori bustle at the Hozenji Temple. This 17th-century shrine features a moss-covered Buddha statue called Mizukakefudo. Stroll down Hozenji Yokocho, an old-fashioned stone-paved lane. Stop at the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum to inspect exquisite woodblock prints depicting kabuki actors.

Shop in Dotonbori's Shinsaibashi-suji and Ebisubashi-suji arcades. Browse brand-name stores or challenge your friends in video gaming parlors. Visit Don Quijote for quality discounts on a range of items.

Dotonbori is known as the region of "Kuidaore," a term which loosely translates to "excessive enjoyment of extravagance in food." Try delectable local specialties, such an okinomiyaki (a savory pancake dish), takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and kitsune udon (a warm noodle soup). Fugu fish, pufferfish with the poisonous skin and organs removed, is also popular among braver eaters.

Dotonbori is located in central Osaka, between the Dotonboribashi and Nipponbashi bridges. Walk here on foot from Namba Station. Revel in the exciting atmosphere of this buzzing district.

Plan a trip to see Dotonbori

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WAYFARER Shinsaibashi
MONday Apart Premium Osaka Namba WEST
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Best Lodging Options Near Dotonbori

APA Hotel & Resort Osaka Namba Ekimae Tower

APA Hotel & Resort Osaka Namba Ekimae Tower

3 out of 5
1-2-13 Minatomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Osaka
APA Hotel & Resort Osaka Namba Ekimae Tower
Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba

Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba

3 out of 5
Nanba Chuou-ku 2-chome 3 -9, Osaka, Osaka
Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba
Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba

3.5 out of 5
1-1-13 Nipponbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka-fu
Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba
Nest Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

Nest Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

3 out of 5
2-4-10, Minami-Senba, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka-fu
Nest Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi
Cross Hotel Osaka

Cross Hotel Osaka

4 out of 5
2-5-15 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka-fu
Cross Hotel Osaka
Swissotel Nankai Osaka

Swissotel Nankai Osaka

5 out of 5
5-1-60 Namba Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka-fu
Swissotel Nankai Osaka
Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka

4 out of 5
1-2-3 Minatomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Osaka
Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka
Acro Capsule Hotel Namba Dotonbori

Acro Capsule Hotel Namba Dotonbori

2 out of 5
Chuo Ward Dotonbori 2-chome-2-20, Osaka, Osaka
Acro Capsule Hotel Namba Dotonbori
Hotel Forza Osaka Namba Dotonbori

Hotel Forza Osaka Namba Dotonbori

3 out of 5
3f 1-4-22 Dotonbori, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture
Hotel Forza Osaka Namba Dotonbori
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dotonbori

Dotonbori offers a vibrant mix of activities, including shopping, walking, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a delicious okonomiyaki experience and explore various sightseeing areas. For those interested in day trips, there are convenient train options available to discover the surrounding attractions. A comprehensive guide can help you navigate this lively district and make the most of your visit to Osaka.

Shopping

In Dotonbori, you can enjoy shopping at Nipponbashi, just 0.7 miles away, offering a mix of family-friendly and entertainment vibes. Kuromon Ichiba Market, 0.4 miles away, is perfect for local delicacies. Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, also 0.4 miles away, features a variety of shops for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Kyocera Dome Osaka, a vibrant sports facility, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Spa World, a relaxing body treatment venue, invites you to unwind with soothing therapies. Namba Grand Kagetsu Theater, known for its comedy shows, provides a fun, family-friendly experience just a short walk away.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at Dekapathos, a vibrant waterpark 13 miles from Dotonbori, perfect for family fun and adventure. For hiking enthusiasts, the Tokai Nature Trail - West Starting Point offers stunning outdoor scenery, located 13 miles away. Enjoy Nishiina Park, another exciting waterpark 10 miles away, ideal for entertainment and family bonding.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Dotonbori! Catch a show at Orix Theater, dive into the stars at Harukas 300, or enjoy a cultural performance at Festival Hall. Each venue offers unique entertainment vibes, perfect for family outings or romantic evenings.

Find the best attractions near Dotonbori

Dotonbori, Osaka, offers a vibrant mix of culture and outdoor experiences with its urban parks, shrines, and temples. Travelers can explore the lively Dotonbori district, stroll along the iconic Dotonbori street, and find family-friendly attractions. For convenience, consider using a Dotonbori map to navigate the area and discover the best hotels recommended by fellow visitors. Enjoy a unique blend of local charm and modern excitement in this bustling destination!

  • Universal Studios Japan: Experience the magic of movies at this thrilling theme park, located 4 miles from Dotonbori. With a variety of attractions and rides based on popular films, it's perfect for families and movie buffs alike, offering entertainment and excitement for all ages.
  • Osaka Castle: A cultural gem situated 2 miles away, Osaka Castle is an iconic symbol of Japan's history. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this stunning castle offers a romantic atmosphere and a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region, making it a must-visit.
  • Tsutenkaku Tower: Just 1 mile from Dotonbori, this modern tower serves as a fantastic observation point for city views. A blend of history and contemporary vibes, Tsutenkaku Tower is a great place to soak in the bustling energy of Osaka.

Best time to go to Dotonbori

Visitor numbers around Dotonbori is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Dotonbori is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September75.2°F (24.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dotonbori

To save money during your trip to Dotonbori, consider visiting in January, February, or September when hotel prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia for discounts. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and location, and consider booking a package that combines flights and hotels for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dotonbori are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dotonbori is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dotonbori is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dotonbori is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: By booking an Expedia package, you can save money by combining your Dotonbori hotel reservations with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.