It's an old clock tower, but what's special is that it was handmade by a local farmer over a hundred years ago—so creative and impressive. It's not huge, but standing there watching it tick so precisely gives you a sense of traveling through time and really makes you appreciate the craftsmanship. It's a great spot for a quick visit and photo, and you can really feel the locals' care for their community.
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Nora Dokei Clock
An eye-catching clock tower set against the farmlands.
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This clock tower was made in the mid-Meiji era, a time when clocks were not yet commonplace, by Genma Hatakenaka. He was a landowner who mastered the art of clock assembly, building it by hand from gears and weights. The clock was nationally registered as a tangible cultural property in 1996.
Backed by Japanese style houses lining in the farm lands, the clock stands in stark contrast with its roman numeral dial, and is often considered an iconic snapshot of Aki city. In front of the clock the fields bloom with sunflowers in summer and cosmos in autumn for a colorful delight that’s different each season.
The clockmaker is said to have gotten in start with a US-made octagonal wall clock bought for him by his father. He learned the structure of the clock virtually on his own by the sheer act of disassembling and reassembling the clock multiple times.
While the clock does not run all year, it does run in cooperation of the owner during tourist season and special events. Please note, the Nora Dokei Clock is a private residence, so touring the building’s interior is not permitted. Remember to be mindful of privacy and remain outside the premises.
Highlights
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Historic clock built by Hatakenaka Genma in the mid-Meiji era, a time where clocks had still not being well used.
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A gorgeous scene set against a backdrop of open fields, this spot is a beloved symbol of Aki City.
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A famous spot for catching cosmos and sunflowers.
Photos
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The sunflower fields and Nora Dokei Clock together, a classic snapshot of Kochi in summer. Photo by Public foundation of Kochi Visitors & Convention Association
Reviews
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If the original text is in another language, the AI will automatically translate and display it.
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This place was originally designed so that farmers could tell the time from far away. Now, it's one of the most familiar sights for locals.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 野良時計
- Postal Code
- 784-0042
- Address
- 638-4 Doi, Aki City, Kochi
- Telephone
- 0887-34-8344 (Aki Tourist Information Center)
- Hours
- Free to view from outside at any point.
- Access
- from JR Aki Station, take a bus for 16 min. to the “Nora Dokei-Mae” stop to arrive.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)