Sapporo Clock Tower (Part I)

A Hidden Gem

They say the Sapporo Clock Tower is one of the three biggest disappointments among tourist sites in Japan. The clock tower is located between tall buildings, making it look small and unimposing. But if you know the history of the clock tower, you will find it worth visiting.

Martial Arts Training Hall

In 1876, Dr. William S. Clark, the first vice president of Sapporo Agricultural College, introduced a curriculum that included military and martial arts training, similar to that of the Massachusetts Agricultural College. The aim was for students to develop strong physical and mental strength as pioneering leaders and to become leaders of agricultural soldiers in case of an emergency. He advocated for the construction of a training hall, which was later called the Clock Tower.

Central Auditorium

The construction of the training hall was completed on October 16, 1878. The first floor contained laboratories, lecture rooms, and a natural history specimen room. The second floor was used for martial training, physical education, and as a central auditorium where college entrance and graduation ceremonies were held. Thus, the training hall served as the place where students embarked on their new academic journey, successfully completing four years of study to receive their degrees and enter society.

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