To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Dogo Onsen Honkan (main building), this mechanical clock was built in 1994 at the Hojoen Garden, located in front of the Dogo Onsen tram station. From 8 am to 10 pm, every hour (and every 30 minutes on weekends, holidays, during the months of March, April, August, and November, during Golden Week, and over New Year's), the clock performs to its music, giving a vibrant welcome to those visiting Dogo Onsen.
The clock, with an exterior motif inspired by the "Shinrokaku" drum tower located at the top of Dogo Onsen Honkan, puts on a show where characters from Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan", set in Matsuyama, rise to the music indicative of Dogo Onsen's ambiance. In the evening, the clock is illuminated, providing a different charm from the daytime.
Next to the Karakuri clock, there's also a footbath of Dogo Onsen. So, visitors can enjoy both the clock and the footbath.
Highlights
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Erected to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Dogo Onsen Honkan's construction.
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Located at the Hojoen Garden in front of Dogo Onsen station, it welcomes visitors.
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The clock performs every hour from 8 am to 10 pm (and every 30 minutes on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, March, April, August, November, Golden Week, New Year holidays).
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Along with the distinct Dogo Onsen music, characters from the novel "Botchan" rise during the performance.
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Enjoy the footbath located next to the clock.
