Sapporo Clock Tower
Hokkaido's Iconic Timekeeper Since the Pioneer Era
Built in 1878 as a drill hall and assembly facility for Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University), the Clock Tower represents the pioneering spirit of Hokkaido's development. The building was designed by the college's American vice-principal, William S. Clark, whose famous parting words to students, 'Boys, be ambitious,' became a motto for Hokkaido.
The clock mechanism was added in 1881, imported from Boston, Massachusetts. For over 140 years, the clock has continued to chime every hour, having stopped only briefly during power outages and maintenance. The tower survived fires, earthquakes, and urban development, becoming a designated Important Cultural Property in 1970.
Today, the Clock Tower stands somewhat incongruously surrounded by modern office buildings, yet it remains beloved as a symbol of Sapporo. The interior has been preserved as a museum showcasing the building's history and the development of Sapporo and Hokkaido. The second floor retains its original hall layout where students once gathered.
Key Highlights
- Built in 1878 as Sapporo Agricultural College drill hall
- American-style wooden architecture with white clapboard siding
- Original clock mechanism from Boston still functioning since 1881
- Designated Important Cultural Property in 1970
- Connected to William S. Clark and 'Boys, be ambitious' legacy
Access Information
Location
2-chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0001, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Odori Station (Namboku, Tozai, and Toho Lines)
- • Sapporo Station (JR Lines and Subway)
Opening Hours
8:45-17:10 (last entry 17:00) | Closed: 1st Monday of each month (or next day if Monday is holiday), Dec 29-Jan 3
Admission Fee
¥200 for adults
How to Get There
From Sapporo Station
Walk south or take subway one stop to Odori Station
10 minutes
From New Chitose Airport
JR Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station
40 minutes
From Odori Station
Walk northeast (Exit 1)
5 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Photography Challenge
The Clock Tower is famously difficult to photograph without modern buildings in the background. Visit early morning for fewer crowds, or try the designated photo spot across the street for the best angle.
Time Your Visit for the Hour
Arrive a few minutes before the hour to hear the clock chime. The mechanism is original from 1881 and the chiming is a special experience.
Museum Exhibits
The interior museum includes displays about William S. Clark, Hokkaido's pioneer history, and the building's architecture. English explanations are available.
Modest Expectations
While iconic, the Clock Tower is smaller than many expect and surrounded by modern buildings. It's considered one of Japan's 'three most disappointing attractions' - but still worth a brief visit for its historical significance.
Combine with Nearby Sights
The Clock Tower is within walking distance of Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, and the former Hokkaido Government Office. Plan a walking route to visit multiple landmarks.
Gift Shop
The small gift shop sells Clock Tower merchandise, including miniature replicas and postcards featuring the famous 'Boys, be ambitious' motto.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Sapporo Clock Tower?
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes total. The museum exhibits on two floors can be viewed in 20-30 minutes, plus time for exterior photos. It's a quick stop easily combined with other nearby Sapporo attractions.
Is Sapporo Clock Tower worth visiting?
It depends on your interests. The Clock Tower is small and surrounded by modern buildings, earning it a spot on Japan's 'three most disappointing attractions' list. However, it's worth a brief visit for its historical significance, especially if you're interested in Hokkaido's pioneer history or William S. Clark's legacy.
Why is the Clock Tower considered disappointing?
Many visitors expect a grander, more isolated landmark. The reality is a small wooden building dwarfed by surrounding office towers, making it difficult to photograph without modern structures in frame. Managing expectations helps - it's historically significant but visually modest in today's urban context.
Can I go inside the Clock Tower?
Yes, the interior is open to visitors. The first floor has exhibits about the building's history and Hokkaido's development, while the second floor retains the original hall layout where Sapporo Agricultural College students once gathered. English explanations are available throughout.
What's the best time to take photos of the Clock Tower?
Early morning (8:45-9:30 AM) offers the best lighting and fewer crowds. Use the designated photo spot across the street for the classic angle. Evening visits provide atmospheric lighting, though surrounding buildings remain visible. The photography challenge is part of the Clock Tower's charm.
Is the Clock Tower wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited. The historic wooden building has stairs to the second floor with no elevator. The first floor museum area is accessible, but visitors with mobility challenges cannot access the upper hall. Contact the facility in advance for specific accessibility assistance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No advance booking is necessary. The ¥200 admission fee is paid at entry. Even during peak tourist seasons, the small venue rarely has long wait times. Just arrive during opening hours (8:45-17:10, last entry 17:00).
What exhibits are inside the museum?
Exhibits include displays about William S. Clark and his famous 'Boys, be ambitious' motto, the building's architectural history, the Boston-made clock mechanism from 1881, and Hokkaido's pioneer development era. Historical photographs show the Clock Tower in different periods surrounded by changing cityscapes.
Can I hear the clock chime?
Yes, the clock chimes every hour using the original 1881 mechanism from Boston. Time your visit to arrive a few minutes before the hour to experience this. The authentic chiming is one of the Clock Tower's most special features, having continued for over 140 years.
Is photography allowed inside the Clock Tower?
Yes, photography is permitted inside the museum and on the second floor hall. Flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibit areas. The exterior can be photographed freely. Try different angles from across the street for better composition avoiding modern buildings.
What nearby attractions can I combine with the Clock Tower?
The Clock Tower is within 5-10 minutes' walk of Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, and the former Hokkaido Government Office (Red Brick Building). Plan a walking route connecting these landmarks. Susukino district is 15 minutes south for dining and entertainment.
Is the Clock Tower suitable for children?
Yes, though young children may find the museum exhibits less engaging than adults. The visit is short enough to hold their attention. Kids interested in clocks or mechanical devices might enjoy seeing the 140-year-old mechanism. The small gift shop sells postcards and souvenirs they might appreciate.
Are there English explanations at the Clock Tower?
Yes, English signage and explanations are available throughout the museum. Information panels about William S. Clark, the building's history, and exhibits are bilingual. Staff may have limited English ability, but the self-guided exhibits are foreigner-friendly.
What souvenirs are available at the gift shop?
The small gift shop sells Clock Tower-themed merchandise including miniature replica models, postcards, keychains, and items featuring the 'Boys, be ambitious' motto. Prices range from ¥300-3,000. It's a good spot for unique Hokkaido souvenirs beyond the typical regional items.
Is the Clock Tower crowded?
Generally no. The small venue means limited capacity, but visitor numbers are typically modest. Weekday mornings are quietest. Tour groups occasionally visit, creating brief crowding. Unlike major Sapporo attractions, you rarely face long waits or packed conditions.
Can I visit the Clock Tower in winter?
Yes, the Clock Tower operates year-round except for monthly closures (first Monday) and New Year holidays (Dec 29-Jan 3). Winter visits offer snowy photo opportunities, though the building is small and viewing is primarily indoors. Dress warmly for exterior photography in Hokkaido winters.
Are there storage lockers for luggage?
The Clock Tower itself doesn't have luggage storage facilities. Use coin lockers at nearby Sapporo Station (5-10 minutes walk) or Odori Station (5 minutes walk). Most major Sapporo hotels also offer luggage storage even after checkout.
What is William S. Clark's connection to the Clock Tower?
William S. Clark was the American vice-principal of Sapporo Agricultural College who designed the building as a drill hall in 1878. His famous parting words 'Boys, be ambitious' became a Hokkaido motto. The museum features extensive displays about his influence on Hokkaido's development and educational philosophy.
How has the Clock Tower survived so long?
Despite fires, earthquakes, and urban redevelopment over 145+ years, the wooden structure has been carefully maintained. It was designated an Important Cultural Property in 1970, ensuring preservation. The clock has rarely stopped, only during power outages and maintenance, testament to quality craftsmanship.
Should I skip the Clock Tower if I'm short on time?
If you have limited time in Sapporo, prioritize major attractions like Odori Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, or Susukino first. However, at only 30-45 minutes including photos, the Clock Tower is easy to squeeze in while walking between other sites. Skip only if historical landmarks don't interest you.
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