Clock Tower (Tokei-dai)
Hokkaido · Japan
And you will enjoy the unchanged ringing bell since it is installed.
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation
Welcome to the Sapporo Clock Tower, or 'Tokei-dai,' an iconic symbol of the city and a testament to the pioneering history of Hokkaido. Built in 1878, this is officially the oldest existing clock tower in Japan. …
Listen in the app2The Architecture — A Piece of the American Frontier
As you walk around the base of the tower, you can truly appreciate its unique architectural style. Built entirely of wood, the Tokei-dai is a prime example of the 'balloon frame' construction method popular in the American…
Listen in the app3The Red Star — Symbol of the North
One of the most intriguing details of the Clock Tower is the presence of the seventeen red stars. As our sources mention, these stars are a recurring theme in Sapporo’s history. …
Listen in the app4Dr. William Smith Clark — The Visionary Vice President
While we are at the Clock Tower, we must discuss the man who was instrumental in its creation and the spirit of the college: Dr. William Smith Clark. …
Listen in the app5The Mechanical Heart — E. Howard & Co. Clock
The true marvel of the Tokei-dai is, of course, the clock itself. Installed in 1881, three years after the building was completed, the clock was manufactured by the famous E. …
Listen in the app6The Ceremony Hall — A Space for Culture
The second floor of the Clock Tower houses the Ceremony Hall, a large, open space that was originally used for military drill and as a theatrical hall for the students. The architecture here is striking, with high ceilings and…
Listen in the app7Volunteer Guides and International Connection
One of the most heartwarming aspects of a visit to the Sapporo Clock Tower is the presence of the volunteer guides. As we see in our sources, these guides are often locals, ranging from enthusiastic elementary school students…
Listen in the app8Closing
As we conclude our journey through the Sapporo Clock Tower, let us take one last look at this enduring wooden landmark. We have explored its unique American frontier architecture, decoded the symbolism of its seventeen red stars,…
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What is Clock Tower (Tokei-dai)?
Clock Tower (Tokei-dai) is a place in Hokkaido · Japan with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Hokkaido · Japan |
|---|---|
| Type | Activity |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 43.0625, 141.3535 |
| Last updated |
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