10 Best Osaka Photography Spots
Best Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots in Dotonbori, Osaka
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One of the most famous things about Osaka is flashy neon lights and large shop displays. In streets of Osaka, shops and restaurants try to compete each other with bigger and more eccentric shop signs, and these unique and flashy shop signs are popular photo spots among tourists today.
Where is the best area to enjoy shop signs in Osaka? I’d highly recommend the neighbourhood called “Dotonbori” — the busiest tourist center with hundreds of shops, restaurants and bars. Today, I am sharing 10 most iconic unique shop signs you can find in Dotonbori, Osaka!
1. Glico Running Man
The billboard of the running man by the confectionery company, GLICO. This has been a symbol of Osaka for many decades. The best photo spot is at Ebisu Bashi Bridge where many tourists stop by and pose as the running man to take pictures!
2. Kuidaore Doll
Kuidaore Taro is another famous landmark of Osaka, which is a mascot of the long-established restaurant, Kuidaore which is now a souvenir shop.
3. Puffer Fish Lantern
Zuboraya is one of the most popular restaurants in Osaka serving a variety of puffer fish dishes. The 5 m large puffer fish lantern glows at night.
4. Don Quijote (Donki)
Our favourite shop, Don Quijote (DONKI)’s Dotonbori store has a very unique feature that the building come with a ferris wheel. The ferris wheel is actually now not working, but it’s still a good landmark in town.
5. Moving Crab
This crab display is one of the most significant symbols of Dotonbori Street, and the crab restaurant “Kani Doraku” is another must-visit restaurant in Osaka which has been running since 1971.
6. Gigantic Octopus
A massive octopus is the symbol of Konamon Museum, which is a free-entry food theme park, mainly showcases the deep food culture of Osaka and their soul food, Takoyaki.
7. Gyoza Dumpling
An enormous plate of Gyoza (dumplings) is set on the shop front of Osaka Osho, a long established restaurant specialised in Gyoza dish which has a number of branches across Japan.
8. Maguro Sushi
The gigantic hand holding a piece of Maguro (Tuna) Sushi is the shop sign of Genroku Sushi, a popular franchised belt conveyor Sushi restaurant based in Osaka. The shop is considered as the first place in the world who started the belt conveyor style Sushi restaurant.
9. Karl Ojisan
The billboard of Karl Ojisan who is a beloved character of the popular snack, Meiji Karl, was built to celebrate the brand’s 40 years anniversary. Every one hour, Karl Ojisan moves and his hat rises up and small frog appears.
10. Dotonbori Entrance
The entrance gate with colourful neon light is located right in front of Dotonbori Street, welcoming the crowds to the most entertainment nightlife district of Osaka!
How did you enjoy the list?? For more cool and unique photo-worthy spots in Japan, please check out these articles, too!
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Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
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