Bust of Dr. William S. Clark: A Hokkaido University Landmark
Commemorating William S. Clark, the visionary educator whose ambition shaped Hokkaido University and inspired generations with his famous motto.
The Bust of Dr. William S. Clark stands as a tribute to William Smith Clark, the first Vice-Principal of Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University). Clark, an American educator, played a crucial role in modernizing Hokkaido's agriculture during his brief eight-month stay in 1876. He was invited by the Japanese government to establish the Sapporo Agricultural College. The bust, officially named the William S. Clark Bust, is located in the northwest corner of the central green area of Hokkaido University. Erected in 1926 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the university's founding, it was lost due to metal contributions during the Pacific War but was rebuilt in 1948. Clark's influence extended beyond agriculture; he also inspired a Christian movement in Japan. Clark's parting words to his students, "Boys, be ambitious!", have become a nationally recognized motto, embodying the spirit of progress and aspiration. While a full-body statue exists at the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, this bust offers a more intimate connection to Clark's legacy within the academic environment where he left his mark. The bust is a popular spot for commemorative photos.
Local tips
- Take a stroll around the Hokkaido University campus to fully appreciate the serene environment and historical significance of the area.
- Visit the Hokkaido University Museum to learn more about the university's history and Dr. Clark's contributions.
- Look for the monument near the bust that features Dr. Clark's famous quote, "Boys, be ambitious!".
A brief summary to Bust of Dr. William S. Clark
- 7 Chome Kita 9 Jonishi, Sapporo, 7 Chome Kita 9 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Hokkaido, 060-0809, JP
- +8111-716-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From the North Entrance of JR Sapporo Station, walk straight through the main gate of Hokkaido University. Continue along the central avenue, and you'll find the bust of Dr. William S. Clark on the central lawn near Furukawa Hall. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and free of charge.
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Public Transport
Take the Sapporo Subway to Kita-Juni-Jo Station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Hokkaido University campus. Enter the campus and follow the signs to the central lawn where the bust is located. Subway fare is around ¥210 for adults. Alternatively, multiple bus routes serve the area around Hokkaido University. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route and fare.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available around Sapporo Station. A taxi ride to Hokkaido University will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥700-¥1000. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main gate of Hokkaido University.
Attractions Nearby to Bust of Dr. William S. Clark
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Ōno Pond
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Sapporo Station North Square
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Sapporo Station South Square
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Bokka Statue
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Sapporo Kokusai Christ Church
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Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University
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Hokkaidō Government Office
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JR Tower
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JR Tower Observatory T38
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Sapporo 611 Christ Church (Kyokai)
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Sapporo Masjid مسجد
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Hokkaido University
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Kani Honke Sapporo Station Main Branch
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Sapporo Clock Tower
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Reclamation Monument
