Sapporo Clock Tower

🏛️ Museums · Sapporo, Hokkaido · ★3.9 (17,292)

Built in 1878 as a drill hall for Sapporo Agricultural College, the Sapporo Clock Tower is one of Japan's oldest wooden clock towers and a designated Important Cultural Property. Its charming American-style Victorian architecture with white walls and red roof creates a striking contrast against downtown's modern skyscrapers, making it one of Sapporo's most photogenic landmarks. Inside, a small museum with English explanations chronicles the building's history and Sapporo's pioneering era, while the original American-made clock mechanism from 1881 still chimes every hour.

Visitor Information

📍 Address

Sapporo, Hokkaido

🎫 Admission

¥200

🚉 Access

10 min walk from Sapporo Station

🕐 Hours

Fri	0845 – 1710
Mon	0845 – 1710
Sat	0845 – 1710
Sun	0845 – 1710
Thu	0845 – 1710
Tue	0845 – 1710
Wed	0845 – 1710

🌐 Official

Official Website

💡 Tips for Visitors

Admission is 200 yen (cash recommended). The Clock Tower is about 10 minutes on foot from Sapporo Station, and in winter you can reach it via the underground walkway to avoid snow. Despite its fame, the building is surprisingly small compared to its surroundings—it often looks more impressive in photos than in person, so manage expectations but still enjoy this charming piece of Hokkaido history. English signage and a wheelchair-accessible elevator are available.