Sapporo Clock Tower

Sapporo Clock Tower is a historic building in Sapporo and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. It is widely called "Sapporo Clock Tower" or simply "Clock Tower," but its official name is the Former Sapporo Agricultural College Drill Hall. Envisioned as a drill hall for the Sapporo Agricultural College (the predecessor of Hokkaido University) under the concept associated with Dr. William S. Clark’s famous "Boys, be ambitious," it was built in 1878 (Meiji 11) and has continued to mark time in Sapporo ever since. Inside the two-story building, exhibits introduce the history of the Clock Tower, and on the second floor there is a statue of Dr. Clark that is popular as a photo spot. The hall, originally used as an auditorium, is still utilized for concerts and lectures. The clock itself is a spring-driven, wound mechanism, and it is wound twice a week. There is also a souvenir area inside featuring unique Clock Tower-themed items. At night the Clock Tower is lit up, and in winter, the combination of snow and illumination makes it a classic commemorative photo spot. Access is about a 5-minute walk from Odori Station on the subway.