Osaka, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, truly comes alive in the evening. On our family trip, we experienced the city’s energetic ambiance, iconic landmarks, and delectable street food. One of the highlights of our evening walk was seeing the famous Glico Running Man, the giant crab sign, and enjoying delicious takoyaki at Takoyaki Umaiya. Here’s a recount of our memorable evening in Osaka.
The Iconic Glico Running Man
As the sun set, we headed towards the Dotonbori district, famous for its neon lights and lively atmosphere. Our first stop was the iconic Glico Running Man sign. This brightly lit billboard, featuring a runner crossing the finish line, has been a symbol of Osaka since 1935. We joined the crowd of tourists eagerly snapping photos and posing with arms outstretched, mimicking the famous pose.
Our daughter was particularly excited about the colorful lights and the bustling scene. The Glico sign encapsulates the spirit of Osaka – vibrant, energetic, and full of life.
The Giant Crab of Kani Doraku
A short walk from the Glico Running Man brought us to another iconic sight – the giant mechanical crab of Kani Doraku, a famous crab restaurant. The enormous crab, with its moving claws and legs, is a striking spectacle and a popular photo spot. We paused to marvel at the impressive display and took a few photos before moving on.
The area around the giant crab sign is packed with restaurants and street food vendors, each offering a tempting array of local delicacies. The lively crowd and the aromatic scents wafting through the air added to the excitement of our evening adventure.
Takoyaki at Takoyaki Umaiya
One cannot visit Osaka without trying takoyaki, a beloved street food consisting of octopus-filled batter balls cooked to perfection. We made our way to Takoyaki Umaiya, a well-known spot for this delicious treat. The sight of the skilled chefs expertly flipping the takoyaki balls on the griddle was mesmerizing.
Takoyaki Umaiya has gained international acclaim, having been featured on Netflix’s “Street Food” series and recognized in the Michelin Guide. The accolades are well-deserved, as we discovered with our first bite. We ordered a generous serving of takoyaki, topped with savory sauce and bonito flakes. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors – the crispy exterior giving way to a soft, creamy filling with a tender piece of octopus in the center. Our daughter, initially hesitant, quickly became a fan and eagerly joined us in devouring the delicious snack.
The friendly staff at Takoyaki Umaiya made the experience even more enjoyable, offering us recommendations and sharing a bit about the history of takoyaki. The bustling atmosphere and the mouthwatering aroma made it a memorable dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Walking around Osaka in the evening was a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks. The illuminated Glico Running Man and the giant crab sign were captivating sights, and the takoyaki from Takoyaki Umaiya was a culinary delight that we won’t soon forget.
Osaka’s lively streets, friendly people, and delicious food made our evening stroll an unforgettable part of our trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, an evening walk through Osaka’s Dotonbori district is a must-do activity that promises a blend of excitement, culture, and incredible flavors. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste the acclaimed takoyaki at Takoyaki Umaiya – it’s an experience that truly captures the essence of Osaka’s vibrant street food scene.
