The Sapporo Clock Tower is a white wooden Western-style building erected in 1878 as the drill hall of the Sapporo Agricultural College (predecessor of Hokkaido University), and it is the oldest surviving Western-style clock tower in Japan. Its gravity-driven clock, purchased from the E. Howard company of Boston, was installed in 1881, and the building was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 1970. Today the first floor exhibits the tower's history while the second floor is a restored auditorium used for exhibitions and events.
Iconic status as Japan's oldest Western-style clock tower with a distinctive white timber facade
A mechanical clock that has run purely on the force of gravity (hanging weights) since 1881
The clock's chime, best heard by timing your visit to the top of the hour
The bench statue of Dr. Clark on the second floor, where you can sit for a commemorative photo
The free 'Clock Tower Photo Plaza' terrace on the second floor of the MN Building across the street for a head-on shot
Good to know
SeasonFrom November to May the tower is closed on Mondays (the next day if Monday is a holiday), while from June to October only the fourth Monday is closed. Check the official site for the latest closure schedule before visiting.
RulesThe Clock Tower closes over the New Year period (Jan 1-3). Hours are 8:45-17:10 (last entry 17:00); please reconfirm the current schedule.
RulesAdmission has been revised to 350 yen for adults and 150 yen for university students (ID required); high school students and younger are free (ID required). Fees may change, so confirm the latest price.
MannersMany visitors feel the tower looks surprisingly small because it is surrounded by tall office buildings. To avoid disappointment, come knowing its historical value and where the best photo spots are.
SafetyCrowds gather to shoot the facade from across the street, so stay on the sidewalk, obey traffic signals, and do not step into or jaywalk across the road for photos.
Practical info
It sits in the city center about a 10-minute walk from Sapporo Station or a 5-minute walk from Odori subway station. For a head-on view use the free photo terrace on the second floor of the MN Building across the street; for an aerial angle use the free observation corridor of the nearby Sapporo City Hall.
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