Sapporo Clock Tower

Historic Site

Last updated September 07, 2026 Reviewed by the Japan Voyage editorial team

Part of Sapporo

Prefecture

Hokkaido

Type

Historic Site

N/A

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About This Destination

A historic wooden clock tower from 1878 that has become the enduring symbol of Sapporo and Hokkaido.

The Sapporo Clock Tower, officially the Former Sapporo Agricultural College Drill Hall, was built in 1878 as an exercise hall for what is now Hokkaido University. The American-style wooden building houses a Howard clock that has been ticking continuously since 1881, making it one of the oldest functioning clock towers in Japan. Inside, exhibits chronicle Sapporo's development from a frontier settlement into Hokkaido's capital city. The first floor showcases the history of the building and the Agricultural College, while the second floor features a hall used for concerts and events. Despite being surrounded by modern skyscrapers, the building retains its 19th-century charm. It is a five-minute walk from Odori Station.

Location

Prefecture: Hokkaido

Address: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Nearest Station: Odori Station

Best time to visit: Year-round central Sapporo landmark; a quick stop pleasant to visit in any season

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: No dining on-site. Surrounding area has many restaurants including Sapporo ramen shops and soup curry restaurants within walking distance.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Sapporo Clock Tower?

It is a few minutes' walk from Odori Station or about 10 minutes from JR Sapporo Station, in the city centre.

What is the Sapporo Clock Tower?

It is an 1878 Western-style wooden building, one of the oldest of its kind in Japan and a symbol of Sapporo, with a small museum inside about the city's pioneer history.