Best things to do in Dotonbori

You wouldn’t expect there to be room for a temple in this bustling district of neon signs, souvenir shops and casual eateries, but Dotonbori has been home to Hozenji Temple since 1637. This little prayer site is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Fudo Myo-o, a militant messenger of esoteric teachings. Though this protector of Buddhism is often depicted with a glaring face and swords, the statue enshrined here is covered in green moss, formed as a result of visitors splashing water over it. This ritual is believed to help make one’s dreams come true and provide support during difficult times, like how Fudo Myo-o aided the Namba community through generations of war and adversity.

Nestled in the heart of Dotonbori, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese woodblock printing. What sets this museum apart is that it only displays works made in Kamigata, which is what the Kansai region of West Japan was called during the Edo period (1603–1867). Back in those days, the region was considered more culturally sophisticated than present-day Tokyo, with traditional institutions such as Kabuki theatre. In addition to poring over the roughly 30 works displayed in the museum’s permanent exhibition, visitors can take part in a woodblock printing experience where they learn the ins and outs of creating their own ukiyo-e artwork (reservation required).

Glico may be best known as the maker of the addictive chocolate-covered Pocky sticks, but the confectionery company, which was founded in Osaka more than 100 years ago, also has a vast range of snacks that you probably haven’t heard of. The Glico-ya store, found beneath the company’s big blue billboard, serves as a one-stop shop for edible souvenirs. Popular items include super-sized Pocky as well as candy boxes made in collaboration with popular anime franchises.

Almost every night is a party at Club Under, a basement music venue that opened in early 2022 to cultivate the local community of trance and techno lovers. With a kaleidoscopic ambience of flashing lasers, violet-hued webbing and digital projections, the space offers an immersive experience that transports clubbers to another world. Every week sees a new set of guest DJs from different parts of Japan and overseas. Past names include psychedelic talent Hanabi Mosaico Records, Tokyo DJ Ayakateen and Madd Maxx of United Beats Records. Entry fees vary depending on the event but usually hover between ¥2,500 and ¥3,500, with a drink included.

In need of directions, or maybe a meat-free snack? Make a pit stop at this tourist centre and vegan restaurant, café and bar, where you can grab some plant-based takoyaki or kushikatsu while researching options in the area. Aside from offering multilingual support to tourists, Pivot Base showcases destinations around Kansai and Japan with videos playing on screens throughout the space.