Guide
Shinkoro is one of the oldest clock towers in Japan, located in the town of Izushi, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture. It sits atop the turret base (yaguradai) near the former Otemon gate of Izushi Castle and has long been cherished as a symbol of the town. The structure's origins date back to 1871, when it was built as a pavilion to signal the time with a drum. The mechanical clock seen today was introduced in 1881. Its presence within the Izushi cityscape is deeply evocative, serving as an important architectural symbol of the region's history.
The story behind this clock tower is one of deep connection between the local community and a Western-style physician. During the Meiji era, a physician named Chujo Ikeguchi, who practiced in Izushi, fell seriously ill. The community prayed fervently for his recovery, and upon his healing, Dr. Ikeguchi expressed his gratitude by personally funding and donating a mechanical clock to the town. The story even mentions that two local youths were sent to Tokyo to learn the mechanics of the clock. This makes Shinkoro more than just a building; it is a cultural legacy representing the bonds and development of the local society. The current clock is the fourth generation to continue marking the time in Izushi.
The greatest appeal of Shinkoro lies in its unique architectural style and the atmosphere that carries its historical weight. Positioned on the ruins of Izushi Castle, it offers a striking view of a former castle town. The story of its donation—rooted in the prayers and gratitude of the townspeople—adds a layer of emotional depth to the site. Visitors can enjoy the harmonious blend of the clock tower with the surrounding historic landscape.
Shinkoro is best enjoyed as part of a stroll through the surrounding castle town. Visiting during the daytime when the light is bright allows you to clearly observe the intricate architectural details and the beautiful scenery. On quieter moments of the day, you can truly feel the weight of the time passing through the clock. While the surrounding landscape changes with the seasons, the tower remains a constant, watchful symbol of Izushi throughout the year.
Around Shinkoro, you can immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere of Izushi. For example, at the nearby "Izushi Eirakukan," you can participate in photo shoots wearing Kimono or experience traditional Japanese culture in a retro setting. Joining a local guided tour of the castle town can also provide a much deeper understanding of the historical background and the stories passed down through generations. Walking through these streets allows you to step back into the atmosphere of the Meiji era.
Shinkoro is located on the site of the former Izushi Castle. The surrounding area is filled with historic buildings and the charm of an old castle town. "Izushi Eirakukan," known for its atmosphere that feels like a century ago, is a popular spot for kimono photography. The entire Izushi streetscape is a primary sightseeing area where you can explore historical architecture and enjoy local culinary culture while walking.
As the area around Shinkoro consists of historic streets, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. When using nearby facilities or shops, please keep cash on hand as it is the primary method of payment. To preserve the beautiful historical landscape, please observe local etiquette and enjoy your sightseeing quietly and respectfully. When taking photos, please be mindful of the environment and other visitors.