osaka dotonbori river cruise

11 Tombori River Cruise

A cruise of about 20 minutes with a guide on Dotombori River. You can see the lively atmosphere of the streets of Minami from the boat.

The service is subjected to change without notice due to river condition, and maintenance of the cruise ship. Please inquire at the facility for details. There will be no refund even if you could not use the facility.

33 YORIMICHI Sunset Cruise

31 Osaka Suijyo Bus Aqua-Liner

24 Captain Line

14 WONDER CRUISE

66 Naniwa Exploration Cruise with Rakugo comedians

Tombori River Cruise

A 20-minute mini cruise down the Dotonbori river

Description

The Tombori River Cruise is a 20-minute sightseeing boat ride that goes from east to west on the Dotonbori River. Enjoy viewing the flashy store signs of Dotonbori as well as Minatomachi River Place from the comfort of a boat. Along the ride, the “Osaka Guide Crew” are more than happy to teach you about the history and culture of Osaka.

Location Information

7-13, Soemoncho, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 542-0084

Nearest Station Namba Station ･ Midosuji Line ･ Yotsubashi Line ･ Sen-nichimae Line 0 minute on foot
Phone Number 06-6441-0532 Available languages only in Japanese
Hours 1:00pm - 9:00pm *Open from 11:00 on weekends/holidays/otherwise crowded days
Closed None *Irregular closures on August Saturdays, closed on 7/13, 7/24, 7/25

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Front Row Seats For Neon: A Dotonbori River Cruise

In 1612, an Osakan man by the name of Yasui Doton began work on a canal to connect two nearby rivers and increase commerce to his part of town. Though he died in battle before completing his plan, the canal was later finished in his name. These days, Doton’s canal (Dotonbori) runs through one of the biggest commercial hubs in all of Osaka, known for myriad shopportunities and delectable restaurants . The canal is an attraction in itself; hordes of tourists come every night to be dazzled by the famous neon billboards that flash and glitter on either bank. And after a long day beating the pavement, I decided to take in this famous sight from a rather different perspective: a Dotonbori river cruise.

Things to do in Osaka: a Dotonbori River Cruise

Dotonbori River Cruises

The concept is simple; you put your feet up, sit back and relax for 20 minutes while learning local history and enjoying the best views of the vibrant billboards. It’s really quite genius. Though the cruises run all day, we arrived for ours after dinner. This was undoubtedly the best time for viewing the neon, but not so much for a settled stomach. Days of “kuidaore” (Osaka’s word for gluttonous eating) had me taking some very deep breaths on the lantern-lit dock. (I would personally recommend a little extra buffer time for future sailors.)

We filed onto the open air boat; once everyone was safely aboard, we went east, sailing under Tazaemonbashi, Aiaibashi and Nipponbashi bridges. The boat then made a U-turn to explore the full length of the canal. We sailed under six more bridges; Ebisubashi, Dotonbori bashi, Shin-ebisu bashi, Daikoku bashi, Fukari bashi and Ukiniwa bashi bridges. Nine bridges in total and eighteen opportunities to wave at the people walking across them.

Prime lightseeing

It’s worth noting that not all tour guides speak English. Ours gave simple explanations, but, honestly, we didn’t mind. We were there for the lightseeing, after all.

As we drifted along, the sparkling neon lit up the night, reflected on the inky water and turned our faces interesting hues. Everyone was arching their heads this way and that, snapping pictures of their favourite signs.

Undoubtedly, the most famous sign is that of the Glico Running Man near Ebisubashi bridge. This iconic advertisement for the local confectionery brand has been in place for around 80 years, albeit with quite a few facelifts. It shows a man crossing the finish line as the winner of a race.

As we drifted along, passing the people and businesses along the promenade, I couldn’t help but wonder what Yasui Doton would think of his namesake canal. Considering his plan to bring commerce to this part of town was a success, I like to imagine that his spirit lives on in the ultimate symbol of Dotonbori: the grinning, winning Glico man.

The cruises depart regularly from in front of Don Quijote, on the Taizaemon Bridge dock. Look for the takoyaki shop with a perpetual queue. The tickets are exclusively purchased from the ticket counter which opens one hour before the first departure of the day; that’s 10:00am on weekends and noon during the week. Tickets are around ¥1,000 for adults, less for children, and it is possible to book tickets for a cruise later in the day.

Name: Tonbori River Cruise Address: 1 Chome-6-7 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071 ( link ) Open: 11AM–9PM weekends and holidays, 1PM–9PM weekdays. URL: http://www.ipponmatsu.co.jp/cruise/tombori.html

Post by Japan Journeys .

Tombori River Cruise

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Osaka's Dotonbori: 10 Fun Things to Do, From Food to River Cruises

Dotonbori, a major sightseeing spot in Osaka, is bustling with people night and day. Visitors should not miss out on the local cuisine, eye-catching billboards, neon signs, and rides. We introduce 10 fun things to do in Dotonbori.

Dotonbori: Osaka's Major Downtown Area

Dotonbori is one of the major sightseeing spots in Osaka . Only a short walk from Namba Station, a major transportation hub, the area is bustling with people night and day. With colorful billboards and neon signs along the Dotonbori River, it is also known as the Times Square of Osaka.

Picture courtesy of Pixta

Visitors should take advantage of the local cuisine, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki, the scenery filled with huge billboards like the Glico logo, and rides like the Ferris wheel and river cruise. Read on to learn 10 attractive features of Dotonbori to see, taste, and enjoy .

1. The Colorful Billboards: A Popular Photo Spot

The huge Glico billboard , one of Osaka's signature icons, is also a popular photo spot . Located at the center of Dotonbori, many people stop by to take photographs. The standard angle would be from the Ebisu Bridge, which spans the Dotonbori River.

Other 3D billboards are advertising companies such as Kani Doraku and Osaka Ohsho, leaving a strong impression on viewers. It might be fun to take a walk while watching these eye-catching signs.

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Dotonbori Itchome

2. Tombori River Cruise: A View From the River

While Dotonbori is an ideal town for taking a stroll, boarding a cruise is another fun option. The boat departs from the pier in front of Don Quijote, with the ride lasting about 20 minutes. This is a chance to enjoy the open air and relax.

Same-day tickets can be purchased at the pier while the Osaka Amazing Pass can be used as a coupon .

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Soemon-cho 7 ( Tazaemon Bridge Pier ） Official Website: http://www.ipponmatsu.co.jp/cruise/tombori.html (Japanese)

3. Ebisu Tower: Enjoy the View of Osaka

An oblong-shaped Ferris wheel with a smiling Ebisu (deity of wealth) figure can be seen at the Don Quijote Dotonbori Store, a large-scale discount store.

While most Ferris wheels are ring-shaped, this facility is said to be the first of its kind worldwide. Passengers can leisurely enjoy the view of central Osaka from above. While the standard fare is 600 yen, visitors with the Osaka Amazing Pass will receive a 100 yen discount .

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Soemon-cho 7-13 Official Website: https://www.donki.com/kanransha/index_en.php

4. Takoyaki: Tatsy Eateries Galore

Picture courtesy of Pixta. Takosen (octopus senbei rice cracker) by Wanaka

The first food you should taste in Osaka is takoyaki (octopus dumplings). There are many famous eateries in Dotonbori, including Wanaka, where customers can choose from a wide variety of sauces, and Ajiho, which serves takoyaki with broth in the style of Akashiyaki.

At Dotonbori Kukuru, located inside the Konamon Museum, visitors can choose ingredients and make their own takoyaki . They can also learn about the history of this iconic dish.

Dotonbori Kukuru Konamon Musem Address: Osaka, Chuo, Dotonbori 1-6-12 Official Website: https://www.shirohato.com/konamon-m/ (Japanese)

5. Okonomiyaki: The Classic Osaka Cuisine

Picture courtesy of Pixta. Modern-yaki

Okonomiyaki , along with takoyaki , is an Osaka cuisine that should not be missed . The fragrant sauce and mayonnaise will arouse your appetite.

The Ajinoya Main Branch has a history of over 50 years and is famous for serving soft-textured dishes. Creo-ru, with its various dishes, including "Modern-yaki" filled with fried noodles, is another popular restaurant.

The Ajinoya Main Branch Address: Osaka, Chuo, Namba 1-7-16 Official Website: http://ajinoya-okonomiyaki.com/en/

6. Other Dishes: Kushi-katsu, Cheesecake, Ramen, Etc.

Picture courtesy of PR Times/Kanisuki, the main dish at Kani Doraku.

With its wide variety of restaurants , Dotonbori is said to be the town where people eat until they drop . Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch, with a 3-D signboard of a moving crab, specializes in serving crab sashimi and tempura. Those planning a visit should make reservations via Klook .

Freshly fried kushi-katsu (skewered cutlets) dipped into sauce and ramen served at Kinryu Dotonbori Store, which boasts a dragon signboard, are some other dishes popular among tourists. The succulent buta-man (steamed pork bun), sold at 551 Horai Main Branch, is everyone's favorite Osaka souvenir.

Kani Doraku Dotonbori Main Branch Address: Osaka, Chuo, Dotonbori 1-6-18 Official Website: https://douraku.co.jp/en/

7. Don Quijote Dotonbori Store: The Best Place to Purchase Souvenirs

Don Qujiote, known as the "Palace of Super Discounts," is a large-scale discount store, with facilities across Japan. They sell general merchandise, food, clothing, and home appliances. The store is also the perfect place to look for souvenirs. Use the exclusive discount coupon for overseas visitors and enjoy shopping .

The Matsumoto Kiyoshi Dotonbori Itchome Store , which handles cosmetics along with medicine, and Edion Dotonbori Store , a household appliance retail store, are also located nearby.

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Soemon-cho 7-13 Official Website: https://www.donki.com/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=110 (Japanese)

8. Nakaza Cuidaore Building: Meet Cuidaore Taro

Top 10 Must-Visit Places to Enjoy Dotonbori in Osaka! Includes Gourmet Food and Sightseeing Spots

This building is marked by Cuidaore Taro, a humorous mascot . Along with the Glico billboard , this is one of the popular photo spots in Dotonbori .

There are souvenir shops and restaurants inside the six-storied building. The shop handles items with motifs of Cuidaore Taro and the Dotonbori area. Visitors should not miss the local-themed souvenirs.

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Dotonbori 1-8-25 Official Website: http://www.dotonbori.or.jp/en/shops/146

9. Hozenji Yokocho: An Alley With a Nostalgic Air

This vintage spot paved with stone is a narrow alley, which also is the approach to Hozenji: a Buddhist temple. Cafes, food stalls, and bars, all with a long history, are lined up on both sides. Take a walk at night when the red lanterns are lit to feel the nostalgic air.

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Namba 1-1-6

10. Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum: Experience Japanese Art

Picture courtesy of Klook

This facility is where you can experience ukiyo-e, traditional Japanese woodblock painting. Visitors can see artworks, learn how they are made, and also make a print of their own. You can color a block made by the museum, press it on to Japanese paper, and take the print back to your home. Tickets can be purchased in advance on Klook .

Address: Osaka, Chuo, Namba 1-6-4 Official Website: http://kamigata.jp/kmgt/english/

Enjoy Exploring Dotonbori

We've introduced ten must-do attractions in Dotonbori, including sightseeing spots and food. If you have the chance to visit, be sure to enjoy them all to your heart's content!

Born in Yamagata Prefecture. I have experience working in community development at the foot of Mt. Fuji and PR for local products across the country, and am currently working in Tokyo to disseminate information about Yamanashi Prefecture. A mother of one who loves local gourmet food and alcohol.

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とんぼりリバークルーズ

大阪ミナミは、街がひとつのテーマパーク！ガイド・クルーを先頭に道頓堀へ、いざ出航！.

「なにわコミュニティーツーリズムコンソーシアム」がお届けする、約２０分間の道頓堀ミニクルーズです。大阪ガイド・クルーの案内で普段味わうことのできない、大阪ミナミ・道頓堀の「川からの眺望」をお楽しみいただけます。観光プランの一つに…、デートコースに…。ぜひ、新たな「大阪ミナミのアトラクション」をお楽しみください。

大阪道頓堀川のOTPとんぼり調査船へようこそ！！

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とんぼりリバークルーズのお知らせクルーズのお知らせ一覧

運航コース＆スケジュール, 運航コース上に架かる9つの橋とその周辺.

①日本橋（にっぽんばし）「堺筋」が川を渡る橋。東南側には黒門市場やでんでんタウンがあります。

②相合橋（あいあうばし）地元では”あいおいばし”と親しまれ、橋の上では様々な催しが行われます。

③太左衛門橋（たざえもんばし）袂には行列のできるたこ焼き屋があり、橋の上は、いつも多くの人で賑わっています。

④戎橋（えびすばし）大規模な掛け替え工事が行われ、新しいシンボルとして生まれ変わりました。

⑤道頓堀橋（どうとんぼりばし）銀杏並木が美しい大阪のメインストリート「御堂筋」が川を渡る橋です。

⑥新戎橋（しんえびすばし）南東角にある「出世地蔵」には、ミナミの新名所として訪れる人が増えています。

⑦大黒橋（だいこくばし）北側には、若者文化の中心地「アメリカ村」が広がり、個性的な店が立ち並んでいます。

⑧深里橋（ふかりばし）「四つ橋筋」が川を渡る橋。北西側には流行発信の街「堀江」がある注目満点のエリアです。

⑨浮庭橋（うきにわばし）「堀江」と「湊町」をつなぐ人道橋。浮かぶ原っぱをイメージに、2008年に架けられました。

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開放感いっぱいのクルーズを堪能。

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Dotonbori Boat Ride

Dotonbori river cruise.

The Tonbori River Cruise is a perfect tour to enjoy valuable panoramic views of Osaka at the most entertaining spots to visit. The Tonbori River Cruise presents you to enjoy viewing the extravagant neon lights of the brightly fashionable area that will fascinate you almost immediately with seeing the iconic Glico running man and massive flashing billboards on the side of the buildings as you cruise by the central city of Osaka, and an absolute must-do experience when travelling at one of the most popular destinations, “Dotonbori” in Osaka, Japan. The Tonbori River Cruise is a 20-minute canal boat ride that strolls along the path from east to west on the Dotonbori River and the highlight of this cruise is being able to learn about the history and culture of Osaka with your very entertaining Rakugo (storytelling) comedians and will introduce you one of the nine most iconic bridges when passing the bridges. The boats depart every half hour from the Tazaemonbashi Bridge Boat Dock (A 5-minute walk from Namba station). Infants and children are allowed to join the cruise. Make sure to have your camera ready to enjoy taking pictures of the amazing views of Dotonbori during the cruise and experience the atmosphere of Osaka’s enthusiasts at one of the most relaxed spots to rest yourself after a long day trip. Dotonbori River Cruise is sure to be a memorable canal ride on your fantastic journey in Osaka, Japan!

Osaka Duck Tours

It is time to go on an adventure and enjoy one-of-a-kind attraction in Osaka, Japan! The Osaka Duck Tours is a thrilling adventurous boat ride boarding the wild style ambitious bus to enjoy sightseeing the cityscape of Osaka from the land and water. The highlight of this tour is being able to experience a novel cruise splashing into the Okawa River and entertain you with Osaka’s incredible views at one of the most beautiful locations to visit! The Boat departs from “River Station Hachikenya” and cruises overland around iconic city central of Osaka such as the Osaka City Hall, Midosuji, Osaka Prefectural Office. The Osaka Duck tours also presents the historical spots to visit such as the Uemachi-Suji Avenue offering a view of Osaka Castle to experience a taste of authentic Japanese architectures. The Osaka Duck tours is the ideal tour to enjoy seeing lovely cherry blossoms with the charming and colorful ambitious bus cruise ride at the most beautiful season to travel, from March through April. The tour lasts about 90 minutes (March 20-Nobember 30) and lasts about 75 minutes (December 1-March 19). The Osaka Duck Tours will entertain you with very friendly and knowledgeable guides who introduce you about the city of Osaka. Osaka Duck Tours is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable bus cruise ride on your dream trip to Osaka, Japan!

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Tombori River Jazz Boat

Live jazz while cruising in Osaka

If you hear strains of 'When the Saints Go Marching In' as you're walking along Dotonbori River, don't be surprised. It's only the jazz boat going by. The Tombori River Cruise is one of the most popular tourist highlights in Osaka, and the 40-minute Tombori River Jazz Boat is a new, seasonal feature.

So for a unique and fun experience of Osaka, hop on board the jazz boat, where you will be entertained by a professional 4-piece jazz band. Osaka is the birthplace of jazz in Japan and had a significant scene in its heyday, so jazz and the city is the perfect combination, along with takoyaki, its famous octopus balls.

As you cruise along the waterways in the heart of the city, you can enjoy the flashing neon lights of Dotonbori from a new perspective, all while being serenaded by popular jazz standards. Some of the jazz favourites on the playlist are 'On the Sunny Side of the Street', 'Somebody Stole My Gal' and 'All of Me'. Guests are given a choice of instruments before they board the boat, so they can join in the fun and play along to the band.

It is not all music on the cruise -- guests are also given a tour in Japanese as they go along. Some of the highlights include the multiple bridges that criss cross Dotonbori River, the iconic Glico running man and huge statues of octopuses on the side of buildings. Don't be surprised to find yourself at the centre of attraction as on-lookers wave and take photographs of the jazz boat as it cruises by.

The check-in point is at the Minatomachi River Place, where you buy your ticket and board the cruise. The ticket counter is open from 11 am, so come early to reserve your seat at the time of your choice. Evening cruises tend to be the most popular. The cruise starts from 1.30 pm (April to June, September and October) and the last cruise is at 8.30 pm. Tickets are priced at ¥1,800 for adults. This cruise is included as one of the attractions in the Osaka Amazing Pass 2016.

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Minatomachi Landing, 1-3-1 Minatomachi, Naniwa-ku ( Directions )

06-6441-0532

ipponmatsu.co.jp

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Tombori River Cruise (Dotonbori)

Tourist attraction

Minatomachi River Place(Minato City)

the Aqualiner (Osakajokoen)

Ebisu Tower（Namba）

Osaka Castle Gozabune(Osakajo Koen)

Step by Step

You can look from the river at the Dotonbori which condenses the charm of Naniwa
The guide will introduce the highlights
The ride takes about 20 minutes
Buy your ticket at the ticket counter
Boarding Fee (Junior high school students and above 900 Yen, Elementary school students and younger 400 Yen)
Go to the boarding dock
Hand over your ticket
Pick your favourite seat and the ship will depart
You can see the scenery of Dotonbori from the river
You can enjoy Osaka’s famous places from a different angle
Why don’t you come and enjoy this cruise?
Directions to Tombori River Cruise Boarding Reception from JR Namba Station
Start from the North-East Exit of the Namba Station
Start from Exit 14
Continue straight
Cross the street to your right
Follow along the river and continue straight
Go up the stairs to your left and turn right
Arrival at Tombori River Cruise Boarding Reception

Tonbori River Cruise

Tonbori River Cruise is a leisurely boat ride that travels along the Dotonbori canal in central Osaka. The 20-minute cruise departing from Tazae-mon-bashi dock runs between the bridges of Nipponbashi and Ukiniwabashi. The roofless boat offers uninterrupted views of the Nanba area, which is Osaka’s major tourist destination.

The cruise travels under nine bridges, all of which offer fantastic views. Some of the most impressive sights is the six-lane Dotonbori bridge, which is the widest bridge in Osaka, and the Shin-ebisu bridge. The latter has walls of washi paper sandwiched in glass, which make for a pretty scene at night.

Throughout the ride, the guide entertains passengers with fun and fast-paced talk that is typical of Osaka locals. The stories are educational too, and tell about Dotonbori’s roots as a neighborhood full of small playhouses. Join the cruise after dark and see Dotonbori in a different light. The area is covered in brightly lit signboards at night. Dotonbori offers an equally impressive view during the day and night.

Basic Information

From Osaka Metro Midoh-suji Line/Yotsubashi Line/Sen-nichi-mae Line/Nanba Line About a 5-minute walk
From Kintetsu Osaka Nanba Station About a 5-minute walk

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