Glico Sign Dotonbori (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Glico Sign Dotonbori?
What makes it 60% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy the flashy lights and 20-min boat ride, but canal railings, thick crowds, and no on-site restrooms or play zones require vigilant supervision and short stays.
Positives:
- Evening Attraction: The Glico Sign lights up at dusk and stays on until midnight, making it ideal for early night visits.
- Kid-Friendly Ride: The river cruise is short enough to hold children’s attention and offers covered seating.
Challenges:
- Crowded Walkways: The bridge and riverside paths can get busy, so watch kids closely near the water.
- Noise and Lights: Bright neon and loud crowds may overwhelm younger children; plan a quiet spot afterward.
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 kids?
- Iconic neon Glico Sign photo opportunity
- Short covered boat ride for kids under 6 free
- Interactive street food like takoyaki
- Safe riverside walk for a family evening
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Families with young kids can see the main sights and enjoy a short river cruise without tiring little legs.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Glico Sign Dotonbori
Glico Sign Photo:
Mimic the running man pose on Ebisubashi Bridge in front of the illuminated Glico Sign.
Tip: Visit just after sunset to capture the lights and remind kids to stay close on the bridge.
Dotonbori River Cruise:
Take a 20-minute covered boat ride along the canal to view neon landmarks.
Tip: Buy tickets at Nihonbashi Pier 15 minutes before departure; under-6 ride free.
Share Takoyaki:
Order a portion of freshly made takoyaki from a street stall and watch the cooking.
Tip: Let kids choose their own toppings and stand back from the hot grill.
Neon Night Stroll:
Walk along the canal to see other signs like Kani Doraku and Pocky box photo spot.
Tip: Use the riverside Tonbori Walk for fewer crowds and safe space for kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Glico Sign Dotonbori
- Buy Cruise Tickets Early: Line up at least 15 minutes before departure to secure seats on the river cruise.
- Use Sidewalk Viewing: If the bridge is too crowded, head to the riverside sidewalk for a clear Glico Sign photo.
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)?
In summer, go after dusk for cooler temperatures. In winter, dress warmly and plan breaks at nearby cafes. Rainy days can limit the river cruise, so check the forecast.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| River cruise (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 5,600 |
| Takoyaki portion | JPY 600 |
| Souvenir snacks | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,200 |
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
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Glico Sign Dotonbori (Osaka)?
About Glico Sign Dotonbori
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 120-917-11110 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities