Ebisu Bridge Osaka
Iconic pedestrian bridge in Osaka's Dotonbori, famous for the Glico Man sign and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Ebisu Bridge Osaka
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic pedestrian bridge in Osaka's Dotonbori, famous for the Glico Man sign and vibrant nightlife.
"The heart of Osaka's electric Dotonbori, where neon lights and endless energy collide."
📸 Best Glico Man Photos
Visit early morning for fewer people, or try from across the river for a different angle.
🎡 Ebisu Tower Views
The Ferris wheel offers great city views, especially at sunset. Opens around 2 PM.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Glico Man Sign
North side of Ebisu Bridge
Osaka's most iconic landmark, a vibrant beacon of energy and a quintessential photo opportunity.
Dotonbori River Cruise
Dotonbori Canal
See the city lights and bridge from a unique perspective on a relaxing canal cruise.

Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel
Don Quijote Building
Ride the world's first oval Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the bustling Dotonbori district.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dotonbori Buzz
Capture the Iconic Glico Man
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Glico Man Photos
Visit early morning for fewer people, or try from across the river for a different angle.
🎡 Ebisu Tower Views
The Ferris wheel offers great city views, especially at sunset. Opens around 2 PM.
🚶♀️ Navigate the Crowds
Be prepared for dense crowds, especially on weekends and during events. Stay aware of your surroundings.
🎉 Post-Game Celebrations
Witness spontaneous celebrations if the Hanshin Tigers win; it can get wild!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Glico Man Photos
Visit early morning for fewer people, or try from across the river for a different angle.
🎡 Ebisu Tower Views
The Ferris wheel offers great city views, especially at sunset. Opens around 2 PM.
🚶♀️ Navigate the Crowds
Be prepared for dense crowds, especially on weekends and during events. Stay aware of your surroundings.
🎉 Post-Game Celebrations
Witness spontaneous celebrations if the Hanshin Tigers win; it can get wild!
🌃 Dotonbori at Night
Experience the dazzling neon lights and lively atmosphere after dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ebisu Bridge is a vibrant, iconic landmark in Osaka's bustling Dotonbori district, famous for the Glico Man sign and lively atmosphere. Visitors love the energetic nightlife, incredible food options, and unique photo opportunities. However, the overwhelming crowds, especially during peak hours and events, can detract from the experience for some.
"It was a beautiful and pleasant end to our Kyoto visit. The sakuras, the serene atmosphere, and the sight of petals floating on the water created a scene straight out of a painting. The soft pink layer covering the water’s surface looked like a Persian silk carpet — delicate and breathtaking. The area was full of life, with plenty of restaurants around to enjoy. Truly a memorable experience."
Hamid
"I got you gulico running man. There are so many people stay in here and take a picture with gulico all day. This is a shopping heaven. Also, there are many local food shop near by the river side. Love this city and Highly recommend to visit."
Murphy Tseng
"This bridge is very cool! It has awesome views, especially at night with the Osaka Nightlife. Perfect view of the famous Neon Glico Sign and the Ferris Wheel, as well as the water"
Gabe Agnew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ebisu Bridge is easily accessible via public transport. The closest station is Namba Station, served by multiple subway lines (Midosuji, Sennichimae, Yotsubashi) and the Nankai Line. From Namba Station, it's a short walk to the bridge.
Yes, Ebisu Bridge is located in the heart of the Dotonbori entertainment district, making it a central point. Many other attractions like Shinsaibashi shopping street are within walking distance.
The most convenient way is to take the Nankai Rapi:t express train or the Nankai Airport Express train directly to Namba Station. From there, it's a short walk to Ebisu Bridge.
While there are parking garages in the Namba area, they can be expensive and fill up quickly. Public transport is highly recommended for visiting Ebisu Bridge.
Yes, you can take a taxi directly to Ebisu Bridge. However, traffic in the Dotonbori area can be heavy, so factor in potential delays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ebisu Bridge itself is a public pedestrian bridge and does not require an entrance ticket. You can walk across it and enjoy the views freely.
Ebisu Bridge is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding Dotonbori district and its attractions, like the Glico Man sign and shops, have their own operating hours.
Taking photos on Ebisu Bridge is free. However, some nearby attractions, like the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, will have their own admission fees.
Access might be temporarily restricted during major events or celebrations, especially if the Hanshin Tigers win a significant game, leading to large crowds.
For attractions like the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, it's advisable to check their official website for booking options and operating hours, especially during peak seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
For clear shots of the Glico Man sign without too many people, aim for early mornings. Evenings offer a vibrant, neon-lit atmosphere, but expect more crowds.
The most popular spot is directly on Ebisu Bridge. For a less crowded view, try from the opposite side of the canal or from a higher vantage point like the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel.
Experiment with long exposures at night to capture the neon lights and moving crowds. Consider capturing the reflections in the Dotonbori Canal for added depth.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive signs and bridge. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography at night, but be mindful of space in crowded areas.
Drone usage is generally restricted in densely populated urban areas like Dotonbori due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dotonbori is a foodie paradise! Don't miss takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and kushiage (deep-fried skewers). Many famous eateries are right by the bridge.
Several restaurants and izakayas in the Dotonbori area offer views of the canal and the bridge, especially those on the upper floors. Look for establishments along the canal.
Street food stalls are abundant and offer delicious, affordable options like takoyaki and ramen. Many small eateries also offer set meals at reasonable prices.
While Osaka is known for its meat and seafood dishes, you can find some vegetarian options like vegetable tempura or ramen with vegetable broth. It might require some searching.
Many restaurants and street food stalls in Dotonbori stay open late, often until 11 PM or midnight, to cater to the vibrant nightlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for crowds, which can be challenging with very young children. Stick to the main pedestrian areas and keep a close eye on little ones. Many street food options, like takoyaki, are generally kid-friendly. Visiting earlier in the day might offer a slightly less overwhelming experience for families.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To avoid the densest crowds and capture the sign in daylight, aim for an early morning visit. Alternatively, explore viewpoints from across the canal or from higher up in buildings for unique perspectives. The reflections in the Dotonbori Canal can also add a beautiful dimension to your shots.
🍜 Foodie Travelers
Explore the countless restaurants lining the streets and canal, offering everything from fresh seafood to hearty ramen. Many establishments are open late, allowing you to indulge in Osaka's culinary delights well into the night. Don't be afraid to try new things – it's all part of the Dotonbori experience!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Glico Man: More Than Just a Sign
While the sign is always illuminated, its visual impact is amplified at night when the surrounding neon lights of Dotonbori come alive. The reflections of the sign and other billboards on the Dotonbori Canal add to the magical ambiance. For those seeking the perfect shot, timing and perspective are key, with early mornings offering a less crowded experience and evenings providing a dazzling spectacle.
Interestingly, the Glico Man sign has seen several updates over the years, with the current iteration featuring LED lights for enhanced brightness and energy efficiency. It's a testament to its enduring popularity and its role as a cultural icon in Osaka.
Navigating the Dotonbori Spectacle
The energy here is palpable, especially in the evenings when the neon lights illuminate the canal and the streets teem with locals and tourists alike. It's a place where you can find everything from street food vendors selling takoyaki and okonomiyaki to high-end restaurants and quirky shops. The sheer density of attractions means you can easily spend hours exploring the area around the bridge.
Be prepared for crowds, as Dotonbori is a major tourist hub. Navigating the throngs of people is part of the experience. Many visitors find that embracing the lively atmosphere and going with the flow is the best approach. Keep an eye out for unique photo opportunities and don't be afraid to try the local delicacies that are advertised with such flair.
Local Celebrations and Spontaneous Fun
Historically, fans have been known to jump into the Dotonbori River in celebration after a major Tigers win. While this is a dramatic and memorable sight, it's important to note that such events are unpredictable and can lead to significant crowd surges and police presence to manage the situation. Halloween has also seen instances of people jumping off the bridge.
These spontaneous events highlight the passionate local culture and the deep connection residents have with their sports teams. While not a scheduled attraction, witnessing such a celebration can be a unique and unforgettable part of a visit to Ebisu Bridge, provided you prioritize safety and are prepared for the ensuing excitement.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit