Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a famous shopping and entertainment strip in southern Osaka, stretching along the canal of the same name. The name goes back to the canal's builder, Nariyasu Doton, whose gravestone still stands on the bank today. The area is known for its glowing neon signs, including the iconic Glico sign, as well as a dense concentration of restaurants and cafés. The district was originally a center for Kabuki theater and puppet shows, a heritage that can still be felt in its culture today. Visitors stroll along the wide waterfront promenades, soak up the lively atmosphere, and, during major sporting events, often witness spontaneous celebrations in which people traditionally jump into the river.