🍜 Dotonbori

Osaka's neon-lit food and entertainment district

About Dotonbori

Dotonbori is Osaka's most famous street - a sensory overload of neon signs, giant mechanical crabs, and endless food stalls. This canal-side entertainment district embodies Osaka's "kuidaore" (eat until you drop) philosophy. From takoyaki to okonomiyaki, kushikatsu to ramen, Dotonbori is Japan's ultimate street food paradise.

⏰ Best Times

  • Evening: 6-10 PM when neon signs light up
  • Lunch: 12-2 PM for authentic local spots
  • Late night: After 10 PM for local izakaya culture

💰 Costs

  • Street food: ¥300-800 per item ($2-6)
  • Restaurant meals: ¥1,500-3,000
  • Food tour: ¥10,000-15,000 with tastings
  • Private guide: ¥25,000-35,000

✨ Must-Try Foods

  • 🐙 Takoyaki: Octopus balls - Osaka's signature dish
  • 🥞 Okonomiyaki: Savory pancake with cabbage, meat, seafood
  • 🍢 Kushikatsu: Deep-fried skewers (no double-dipping!)
  • 🍜 Ramen: Rich tonkotsu broth noodles

📝 Tips

  • Guides navigate crowds: Know best stalls and timing
  • Language barriers: Many vendors speak limited English
  • Cash only: Most street vendors don't take cards
  • Glico Man photo: Iconic running man neon sign