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Daimyo Clock Museum: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Timekeeping

Discover Edo-era ingenuity at Tokyo's Daimyo Clock Museum, showcasing unique Japanese timekeeping in the historic Yanaka district.

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The Daimyo Clock Museum, nestled in Tokyo's Yanaka district, showcases a unique collection of Japanese clocks from the Edo period (1603-1868). These 'daimyo clocks' or *wadokei*, were crafted with exceptional ingenuity to accommodate Japan's traditional time system, offering a fascinating look into the past.

A brief summary to Daimyo Clock Museum

  • 2 Chome-1-27 Yanaka, Taito City, 2 Chome Yanaka, Tokyo, 110-0001, JP
  • +813-3821-6913
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's opening hours in advance, as it's closed on Sundays, during the summer (July 1 - September 30), and over the New Year period (December 25 - January 14).
  • An English pamphlet explaining the traditional Japanese timekeeping system is available for a small fee.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming Yanaka district, known for its temples, traditional shops, and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Consider visiting other attractions in the Yanesen area, such as Tennoji Temple, Yanaka Ginza shopping street or Nezu Shrine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Yanaka Ginza shopping street, walk east along the main street. Turn right at the first major intersection, then left at the next small street. The museum will be on your right, a short walk down the street. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Nippori Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, or Keisei Line), take the west exit and walk towards Yanaka Ginza. Follow the walking directions above from Yanaka Ginza. Alternatively, from Sendagi Station (Chiyoda Subway Line), take the exit closest to Yanaka Ginza and walk east. Follow the walking directions above from Yanaka Ginza. Subway fare from Tokyo Station to Sendagi Station is approximately ¥180-¥220. The local loop bus, Megurin, also services the area for ¥100 per ride.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from major transportation hubs like Ueno Station or Nippori Station. A short taxi ride from Ueno Station to the Daimyo Clock Museum will cost approximately ¥800-¥1000, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Daimyo Clock Museum

Tucked away in the charming Yanaka district of Tokyo, the Daimyo Clock Museum offers a unique glimpse into Japan's Edo period (1603-1868) through its collection of *wadokei* (Japanese clocks). These timepieces, also known as daimyo clocks, were status symbols owned by the feudal lords (daimyo) and are a testament to the ingenuity of Japanese clockmakers. The museum was established in 1972 to display the collection of Sakujiro Kamiguchi, a ceramicist and clock enthusiast. Kamiguchi was fascinated by the unique cultural significance of these clocks, recognizing that their purely Japanese style was a direct result of the country's isolation during the Tokugawa shogunate. Unlike European clocks with equal hours, daimyo clocks were designed to measure temporal hours, which varied in length depending on the time of day and season. The museum itself is housed in a traditional building, adding to the atmosphere of stepping back in time. Inside, visitors can admire a variety of mechanical clocks, sundials, and incense clocks, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of the Edo period. While the museum is small and the explanations are primarily in Japanese, an English pamphlet is available to help visitors understand the intricacies of the traditional Japanese timekeeping system. Visiting the Daimyo Clock Museum offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a chance to appreciate a unique aspect of Japanese history and culture. The surrounding Yanaka district, with its preserved traditional streets, temples, and artisan shops, further enhances the experience.

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