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Sapporo Clock Tower: A Symbol of Time and History

A historic landmark in Sapporo, the Clock Tower offers a glimpse into the city's past and the legacy of Sapporo Agricultural College.

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The Sapporo Clock Tower, officially the Former Sapporo Agricultural College Gymnasium, is a cherished symbol of Sapporo. Built in 1878, it initially served as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University) and is a reminder of Sapporo's early development and the introduction of Western education in Japan.

A brief summary to Sapporo Clock Tower

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the evening to see the Clock Tower illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere, especially in winter.
  • Take a panoramic photo of the Clock Tower from the second-floor terrace of the Sapporo MN Building across the street.
  • Explore the exhibits on the first floor to learn about the history of the Clock Tower and Sapporo Agricultural College.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sapporo Clock Tower is located a short walk from both JR Sapporo Station and Odori Park. From JR Sapporo Station, walk south for about 10 minutes. From Odori Park, walk north for about 5 minutes. There are signs in English to guide you. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Clock Tower is easily accessible by subway. Take the subway to Odori Station and walk about 5 minutes from Exit 7. A single subway ride costs ¥200 for adults. Consider purchasing a one-day subway pass for ¥830 (unlimited rides) or a Donichika Ticket for ¥520 (unlimited rides on weekends and holidays) if you plan to use the subway extensively.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sapporo. A short taxi ride from JR Sapporo Station or Susukino to the Clock Tower will typically cost between ¥500 and ¥800. Note that taxi fares start a bit over ¥500, with an additional charge of approximately ¥300 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Sapporo Clock Tower

The Sapporo Clock Tower, known locally as Tokeidai, stands as a proud landmark in the heart of Sapporo. Constructed in 1878, this iconic building began its life as a gymnasium for the Sapporo Agricultural College, which later became Hokkaido University. The Clock Tower represents the modernization of Sapporo and Hokkaido, with its American-influenced design. The clock itself, installed in 1881, was manufactured by E. Howard & Co. in Boston and continues to chime every hour. The building now functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of the tower and Sapporo's development. Exhibits include historical documents, photographs, and models. The second floor features a hall that has been restored to its Meiji-era appearance and is used for concerts and lectures. Despite being surrounded by modern buildings, the Sapporo Clock Tower remains a beloved symbol of the city. Its charming facade, with its white walls and red roof, provides a picturesque scene that changes with the seasons. The tower is particularly beautiful in winter when it is illuminated against the snow.

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