Glico Man, Electronic billboard at Ebisu Bridge, Dotonbori, Japan
Glico Man is an illuminated sign at Ebisu Bridge in Dōtonbori showing a running figure with raised arms in a victory pose. The installation uses about 150,000 LED lights and shines each night as a bright feature of this busy shopping and entertainment area.
The first version was installed in 1935 by the Glico confectionery company to advertise their caramel candy. The sign has been upgraded several times since then but has kept its basic victory pose design.
The name comes from Glico, a caramel candy meant to energize runners. Visitors gather at night to copy the victory pose and take photos in front of this recognizable symbol of Osaka.
The display lights up from dusk until midnight, with the best views from Ebisu Bridge or the riverside balcony across from it. Coming early in the evening helps you avoid crowds and find better spots for photos.
The runner's pose represents 300 meters—the distance consumers could theoretically run using energy from one piece of Glico candy. This original marketing idea is still why visitors today copy the raised-arm pose.
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