KochiTravel

A Handmade Clock Tower Standing Alone in Rice Fields and a Leisurely Stroll Through Samurai Residences

About this spot

A white-walled clock tower standing solitary in rice paddies, long cherished as a symbol of Aki City. During an era when household clocks were not yet widespread, a landowner named Hatanaka Genma taught himself the mechanics of clocks, repeatedly disassembling and reassembling a timepiece he had crafted himself—a handmade turret clock. It earned the name "Nora Clock" (literally "field clock") because it told time to workers in the fields. The surrounding area preserves Doi Kakuchu, a samurai residential district with living hedges and earthen walls, and a leisurely walk past the clock tower through these streets is the classic route for Aki sightseeing. The birthplace of Iwasaki Yataro, founder of the Mitsubishi Group, also stands in the city, making a historical walk from the clock tower through streets retaining the castle town's character a fitting finale to your day.

Tips

The clock tower's interior is not open to the public; view it from outside. It takes about 30 minutes on foot from Aki Station, so renting a bicycle from Djibasan Market is convenient. Wear comfortable walking shoes for touring Doi Kakuchu. Confirm your return train time beforehand for peace of mind.

Best time to visit

Approximately 2 hours (including Doi Kakuchu walk). Late afternoon when the westering sun softly illuminates the white-walled clock tower is most picturesque.