Sapporo Clock Tower

In a country and city where buildings are often considered to have a 30-year lifespan, the Sapporo Clock Tower is an obvious outlier. Built in 1878 when Sapporo was still being settled by Japanese, it is the oldest building in the city as well as the oldest clock tower in the country. While the Shinkorō tower in Hyogo is technically older, it was not used as a clock tower until later on.

Sapporo largely owes its development to American assistance, which is evident in the tower’s design. It was originally constructed as part of Sapporo Agricultural College (today Hokkaido University), specifically as its gym and drill hall. The college’s founder, American William S. Clark, helped bring many American ideas and principles to Japan, especially the recently colonized Hokkaido. The tower’s clock itself is also American, having been installed by Boston clockmaker E. Howard & Co. 

Today, the Sapporo Clock Tower is used as a museum and event space. Its bell chimes have been named one of the top 100 soundscapes of Japan. Although the bells can no longer be heard from more than a few blocks away, elementary schools play their sounds throughout the school day.

Due to its chimes, age, and distinctly American appearance, the clock tower has domestically become one of the leading symbols of Sapporo and Hokkaido. As such, it has become almost obligatory for Japanese tourists to see it while here. However, many end up being surprised at its relatively short height, especially when compared to the looming trees and skyscrapers surrounding it. At one point there was a proposal to move the tower to a less crowded park, but this proved unpopular! As such, it has been named one of the top three most disappointing spots in Japan.