Sapporo Clock Tower Sapporo
Sapporo's historic wooden clock tower, built in 1878, now houses a museum showcasing the city's past and a still-functioning mechanical clock.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Sapporo Clock Tower Sapporo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sapporo's historic wooden clock tower, built in 1878, now houses a museum showcasing the city's past and a still-functioning mechanical clock.
"A small, but historically important landmark clock tower in Sapporo city which you can visit while you’re in Sapporo!!!"
🎯 Entrance Fee & Value
A small entrance fee (under 500 yen) grants access to the museum and clock display.
📸 Selfie Stand Available
A dedicated stand is set up for easy selfies in front of the iconic tower.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Clock Tower
Central Sapporo
A historic wooden structure, this symbol of Sapporo still chimes and houses a museum detailing its past.
The Mechanical Clock Display
Inside the Tower (2nd Floor)
Marvel at the intricate mechanics of the original clock, a testament to engineering and precision.
Historical Museum Exhibits
Inside the Tower
Learn about Sapporo's development and the tower's role as a former drill hall for Sapporo Agricultural College.
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Planning Your Visit
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Inside the Tower: What to Expect
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Entrance Fee & Value
A small entrance fee (under 500 yen) grants access to the museum and clock display.
📸 Selfie Stand Available
A dedicated stand is set up for easy selfies in front of the iconic tower.
🗣️ Language Support
Explanations are primarily in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, with some English distribution available.
🚶♀️ Nearby Park Relaxation
Combine your visit with a stroll in the adjacent park for photos and ice cream.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Entrance Fee & Value
A small entrance fee (under 500 yen) grants access to the museum and clock display.
📸 Selfie Stand Available
A dedicated stand is set up for easy selfies in front of the iconic tower.
🗣️ Language Support
Explanations are primarily in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, with some English distribution available.
🚶♀️ Nearby Park Relaxation
Combine your visit with a stroll in the adjacent park for photos and ice cream.
🕰️ Still Ticking Strong
The old mechanical clock is still operational and well-maintained, a fascinating sight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Sapporo Clock Tower is a charming historical landmark, appreciated for its iconic status and the fascinating mechanical clock display inside. While some visitors find the museum exhibits limited or primarily in Japanese, its central location and modest entrance fee make it a worthwhile quick stop for a glimpse into Sapporo's past. +2
"Nothing really too special about this old clock house. It may have its significant at the time when it was built but it is now surrounded by modern buildings!
If you pay ¥350 for a ticket to visit inside of the building but the information displayed is all in Japanese, Chinese and Korean, very few have English distribution. But the mechanical clock display inside on the second floor is very cool.
Just like many other photo location, there is a stand in front of the building that is set up for taking selfie!"
Steven Cheng
"Very nice museum, about the history of the building. Most explanations are translated jn English. There is also a spot inside to take pictures with a statue Dr Clark and a small shop.
Visited in June, and the inside of the building was very hot despite fans and some air conditioning."
SossoOrange
"The symbol of Sapporo, a great location to capture memories while in the metro, near this landmark is a huge park where you can unwind and relax while having some great pictures and ice cream.
FYI the Sapporo Clock Tower has an entrance fee of less than 500 yen per person."
Wilbert Ong
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sapporo Clock Tower is centrally located and easily accessible. Many visitors arrive by public transport, with subway stations like Odori Park being a short walk away.
Yes, the tower is conveniently located near other popular Sapporo sights such as Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, and Tanukikoji Shopping Street, making it easy to combine into a day of sightseeing.
It's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Sapporo Station to the Clock Tower, allowing you to see more of the city along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Sapporo Clock Tower is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
There is a small entrance fee, typically less than 500 yen per person, to enter the museum inside the tower. This fee grants access to the historical exhibits and the mechanical clock display.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Sapporo Clock Tower. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities can be limited. It's advisable to contact the attraction directly for specific details on ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a museum dedicated to the history of the tower and Sapporo. The main attraction is the original mechanical clock mechanism on the second floor, which is still operational. There's also a spot to take photos with a statue of Dr. William S. Clark.
While the primary language for explanations is Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, some English distribution and translations are available for key information.
A visit to the Sapporo Clock Tower typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the museum exhibits and how long you spend admiring the clockwork.
The tower can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons can help you avoid the largest crowds.
Built in 1878, it's one of Sapporo's oldest buildings and served as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College. It's a symbol of the city's history and development.
📸 📸 Photography
The classic view is from the front, where a dedicated selfie stand is often available. You can also capture it from the nearby Odori Park, especially during different seasons.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum and of the clock mechanism, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour light for exterior shots. However, the tower is picturesque at any time of day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nearby Odori Park offers space for kids to run around and enjoy ice cream, making it a good complement to the tower visit. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Symbol of Sapporo's Past
Inside the tower, visitors can explore a small museum that delves into the history of the building and Sapporo itself. The highlight for many is the original mechanical clock mechanism on the second floor, which continues to keep time and chime, showcasing the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Despite being surrounded by modern architecture, the Clock Tower retains its charm and historical significance. It's a place where you can step back in time and appreciate the city's heritage.
The entrance fee is modest, making it an affordable and worthwhile stop on any Sapporo itinerary. Experiencing the Clock Tower Museum
While the majority of the informational text is in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, the museum does provide some English explanations, particularly for the main exhibits and the clock mechanism.
The museum also offers a photo opportunity with a statue of Dr. William S. Clark, adding a personal touch to the historical narrative. Visitors should be aware that the interior can get warm, especially during summer months, even with fans and some air conditioning.
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