Sapporo Clock Tower: A Symbol of Sapporo's History

The Sapporo Clock Tower, known locally as Sapporo Tokeidai, is a beloved landmark and a significant piece of Sapporo's history. Constructed in 1878, it initially served as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College, which later became Hokkaido University. The building's design reflects American Western-style architecture, a novel concept in Japan at the time, and is one of the few surviving examples of such architecture in the city. The clock itself, installed in 1881, was manufactured by E. Howard & Co. in Boston, Massachusetts. This clock has been accurately keeping time for over a century, its chimes resonating throughout the city. The tower and its clock were designated as an Important Cultural Property in 1970, and the clock was certified as Mechanical Engineering Heritage of Japan in 2009. Inside the Clock Tower, visitors can explore a museum that showcases the history of Sapporo and the tower itself. Exhibits include photographs, dioramas, and artifacts that detail the development of Sapporo and the role of the Sapporo Agricultural College. The second floor features a hall restored to its Meiji-era appearance, hosting concerts and lectures. The tower's white-walled facade provides a picturesque backdrop, especially when illuminated at night or surrounded by winter snow.