Sapporo Clock Tower
The Sapporo Clock Tower, located in Sapporo, Japan, is a historic wooden building known for its American-style architecture. It houses a clock that has been running since the 19th century.
The Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of Sapporo, Japan, is a historic building completed in 1878. It features Western-style architecture, introduced by American educators as part of the development of Hokkaido.
The clock, made by Howard & Davis Clockmakers in Boston, has been operational since its installation.
Originally an agricultural college drill hall, it now serves as a museum showcasing Sapporo’s history and the tower’s significance.
The Sapporo Clock Tower is special because it’s a surviving example of early Meiji Period western architecture in Japan and represents Sapporo’s development.
Its continuously running clock since the 19th century symbolizes continuity and the blending of cultures, making it a historical landmark and a reminder of Sapporo’s early days of modernization.
Sapporo Clock Tower Travel Essentials
Places near Sapporo Clock Tower
Sapporo Clock Tower tickets and entrance fees
Access to the Sapporo Clock Tower usually involves a small entrance fee. The fee is around 200 yen ($1.35 USD) for adults, with discounts available for children and groups.
Inside, visitors can explore exhibits on the tower’s history and the broader history of Sapporo. Special tours or events may have different pricing, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before visiting.
Is Sapporo Clock Tower worth visiting?
If you appreciate history, architecture, or want a deeper understanding of Sapporo’s cultural background, it’s a must-visit. Its unique story and status as a city landmark offer insight into the local heritage, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and tourists seeking to experience Sapporo’s charm.
How to get to Sapporo Clock Tower
To get to the Sapporo Clock Tower, located in the heart of Sapporo, visitors can easily access it via public transportation. The closest subway station is Odori Station, which is a short walk away.
From Sapporo Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk, making it accessible on foot from many parts of central Sapporo. Buses also run frequently through the area, making it convenient for visitors to reach from different parts of the city.
Things to do in Sapporo Clock Tower
Explore the Timepiece Exhibit
Discover the history and mechanics of the iconic clock, made by Howard & Davis Clockmakers of Boston, and understand its significance in the context of Sapporo’s development.
Attend a Historical Lecture
Participate in one of the scheduled lectures or presentations about the history of Sapporo and the role of the Clock Tower in the city’s cultural evolution.
View the Agricultural College Exhibit
Learn about the building’s original purpose as part of the Sapporo Agricultural College and explore displays related to the educational methods and agricultural practices introduced to Hokkaido from the West.
Photograph the Architecture
Take detailed photographs of the Clock Tower’s American-style architecture, focusing on its unique features that stand out amidst Sapporo’s modern cityscape.
Interactive Cultural Workshops
Engage in cultural workshops or activities that occasionally take place within the tower, offering hands-on experiences related to Japanese traditions or crafts.
Visit the Sapporo Development Exhibit
Explore the exhibit detailing the development of Sapporo city, with a focus on how the Clock Tower has witnessed and been part of this growth over the years.
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