Glico Sign Dotonbori (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Glico Sign Dotonbori?
What makes it 47% Baby-Friendly: Infants ride free on the boat and nearby stations offer nursing rooms, but stairs, jostling crowds, absence of diaper tables, and scarce stroller space make visits tiring.
Positives:
- Infant free cruise: Babies 0–5 ride free on the river boat when seated on a lap.
- Free station facilities: Shinsaibashi and Namba nursing rooms have changing tables and seating.
- Stroller-friendly photo: Sidewalk spot gives space to park strollers safely during photos.
Challenges:
- No on-site baby room: The Glico Sign area has no restrooms or changing tables nearby.
- Crowded bridge: Ebisubashi Bridge fills up after dark, making strollers hard to navigate.
- Limited stroller access: Small shops and boats may limit stroller size; check ahead.
What is Glico Sign Dotonbori?
- A giant illuminated billboard featuring the Glico “running man” overlooking Osaka’s Dotonbori canal
- An advertisement installation first erected in 1935 by the Ezaki Glico confectionery company and updated with neon and LED lighting
- A prominent visual landmark in the Dotonbori entertainment district, marking a key point along the canal’s neon-lit streetscape
What is so special about Glico Sign Dotonbori for with baby?
- Take the 20-minute covered river cruise with infant free.
- Use the sidewalk photo spot for a safe Glico Sign shot.
- Access free nursing and diaper-changing rooms at Shinsaibashi/Namba.
- Relax at nearby BelBel Park baby café if you need a seating break.
- Plan for 1–2 hours to cover all activities without hurrying.
Note: Glico Sign Dotonbori is 47% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Osaka for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for a river cruise, a neon photo op, and a baby break without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Glico Sign Dotonbori
Dotonbori River Cruise:
Board a covered 20-minute boat to see the Glico Sign and canal lights.
Tip: Infant rides free on lap; ask crew to help with stroller boarding.
Sidewalk Neon Photo:
Use the quieter sidewalk below Ebisubashi Bridge for a Glico running man shot.
Tip: Stay clear of crowds and secure the stroller on the flat sidewalk.
Metro Station Nursing Rooms:
Visit Shinsaibashi or Namba stations for free nursing and diaper-changing facilities.
Tip: Ask station staff for the key; both rooms have hot-water dispensers and seating.
BelBel Park Baby Café:
Relax in a paid kids café near the sign with nursing rooms and changing tables.
Tip: Pay by time block (¥450/30 min weekdays); bring baby snacks or formula.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Glico Sign Dotonbori
- Early cruise slot: Book the first evening cruise to avoid later crowds on the canal.
- Station breaks: Use metro nursing rooms before and after your visit to stay on schedule.
- Light stroller: Bring a compact stroller with good brakes for the crowded riverside paths.
Reviews of Glico Sign Dotonbori
Enjoyvips
🥰♥️This spot is one of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks that everyone must check in at least once! The Glico Sign in Dotonbori perfectly represents the vibrant energy of Osaka. It looks especially stunning at night, making it a must-visit photo spot. If you come to Osaka and don’t stop here, it’s like you haven’t truly been to the city yet 🌟📸
Edmund JP
The place is packed with locals and tourists. Gilco Man is so popular because he’s more than just a sign, he’s a symbol of Osaka’s fun, loud, never-take-life-too-seriously spirit. Since 1935, that triumphant runner has represented Glico’s message of energy, health, and victory, and over the decades he’s quietly become Osaka’s unofficial mascot. Only after we took this must-take photo did my son an...
Monika Debnath
Osaka itinerary feels incomplete without at least one night-time visit to the Glico Sign. It’s free, central, incredibly photogenic, and effortlessly combines history, pop culture, and street life into a single, unforgettable view over the canal. Lots of street food stalls all around the canal. Also there is a huge Donqijoute here with a ferris wheel.
yumz
A LANDMARK THAT OUTRAN EVERY EXPECTATION · THE LEGEND AND VIBE the glico running man is the iconic led sign on ebisu bridge, a symbol of victory since the 1930s. it's undeniably cool to see in person, with its triumphant pose defining the dotonbori skyline. that first glimpse hits different. THE REAL TALK manage expectations. it's a modern led screen, not classic neon. also, the area is super c...
Aishola Aisaeva
Dotonbori is super crowded but definitely a must-see. The boat ride costs 2000¥ (~$12) for 20 minutes, probably worth it at night, but during the day it can feel a bit short and boring. The main food area felt 4/10, overpriced and many staff are from other countries, but if you explore nearby streets, local spots serve much better food!
When is the best time to visit Glico Sign Dotonbori (Osaka, Japan)?
Neon lights work year-round but best after dusk. In summer bring sunshade, water and light layers; in winter bundle baby warmly for the open-air boat breeze.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| River Cruise (2 adults) | JPY 4,000 |
| BelBel Park baby café (2 adults, 1 hr) | JPY 1,800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 5,800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Glico Sign Dotonbori
Address: 1-chōme-10-3 Dōtonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
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About Glico Sign Dotonbori
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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