Why the Glico Sign is Osaka’s Ultimate Selfie Backdrop
Standing triumphantly above the neon chaos of Dotonbori Canal, the Glico Running Man sign isn’t just a billboard—it’s a symbol of Osaka’s energetic soul. Installed in 1935 by the Glico candy company, this luminous athlete (inspired by the brand’s “energy-giving” caramel) has witnessed decades of Osaka’s evolution. For foreigners, snapping a victory-pose photo here is a rite of passage—proof you’ve embraced the city’s “kuidaore” (eat-’til-you-drop) spirit!
📍 Finding the Spot: Easy Navigation Tips
- Address: Dotonbori Canal, facing Ebisubashi Bridge, Namba, Osaka.
- Landmarks: Look for the giant crab sign of “Kani Doraku” restaurant—the Glico sign is directly opposite it.
- Access: 5-min walk from Namba Station (Subway Midosuji Line) or JR Namba Station. Use Google Maps: “Glico Sign Dotonbori”.
🌆 Best Time to Visit for Epic Photos
- Sunset to Midnight: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to see the transformation! The sign lights up dynamically after dark, reflecting off the canal for dazzling shots.
- Avoid Crowds: Weekday mornings (8-10 AM) offer empty backgrounds but dull lighting. For vibrant energy, embrace the evening buzz!
- Seasonal Perks: Visit during Christmas (special light displays) or Osaka Tenjin Matsuri (July, fireworks + illuminated boats).
📸 Pro Photo Tips from Locals
- The Sweet Spot: Stand on Ebisubashi Bridge for the classic frontal shot. Arrive early to claim space!
- Creative Angles:
- Canal-Level Shots: Descend to the waterfront walkway (left of the bridge) for reflections.
- Bokeh Magic: Use a wide aperture (f/1.8-2.8) to blur neon crowds behind you.
- Pose Like Osakans: Mimic the Running Man’s victory stance—arms up, one knee lifted! Bonus: Buy Glico’s “Pocky” sticks as props.
- Crowd Hack: Can’t avoid people? Point your camera upward, focusing on the sign with the canal as your base.
🍣 Nearby Eats & Experiences
Refuel after your photoshoot at these iconic spots:
- Takoyaki Stands: Try “Amezaiku Yoshihara” for octopus balls with crispy perfection.
- Kuidaore Alley: Pose with the drum-beating “Kuidaore Taro” clown statue (2-min walk).
- Hozenji Yokocho: A hidden alleyway with stone lanterns and the moss-covered “Fudo Myoo” statue (5-min walk).
💡 Fun Facts to Impress Your Friends
- The sign survived WWII blackouts and multiple redesigns—today’s LED version (installed in 2014) uses 140,000 bulbs!
- Glico’s founder created caramel after discovering glycogen in oysters, aiming to nourish post-war Japan.
- Locals believe photos here bring luck—especially if you’re running toward a goal (like your next food adventure!).
Final Tip: The Glico sign is just the start! Wander Dotonbori after dark for glowing pufferfish lanterns, retro arcades, and river cruises. Remember: In Osaka, every corner is a photo op—but this neon champion is the undisputed king. 🏃💫
> “In a city that never sleeps, the Glico Man races on—capturing the heartbeat of Osaka in one flash.”