Wako Clock Tower (Seiko House Ginza) - Image 1
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Wako Clock Tower Ginza

4.5
·454 reviews·Chuo City, Japan

An iconic Tokyo landmark, the Seiko House Ginza clock tower is a symbol of history, elegance, and precision timekeeping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dusk

Magical lights and chimes

CrowdMedium
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Wako Clock Tower (Seiko House Ginza) - Image 1

Wako Clock Tower Ginza

Best Time

Dusk

Magical lights and chimes

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic Tokyo landmark, the Seiko House Ginza clock tower is a symbol of history, elegance, and precision timekeeping.

4.5
(454 reviews)

"This isn’t just a building—it’s Tokyo’s heartbeat. The Seiko clock tower at Ginza 4-chome doesn’t just tell time, it tells history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Hear the Chimes

Listen for the Westminster chimes, especially beautiful at dusk.

🛍️ Explore Seiko's Finest

The ground floor boasts a wide range of Seiko watches, with exclusive women's models upstairs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seiko House Ginza Clock Tower

Seiko House Ginza Clock Tower

Ginza 4-chome intersection

An iconic Tokyo landmark, this historic clock tower offers timeless beauty and Westminster chimes.

Seiko Boutique

Seiko Boutique

Ground floor of Seiko House Ginza

Discover a curated selection of Seiko and Grand Seiko watches, including exclusive and high-end models.

Ginza Crossing

Ginza Crossing

Surrounding the clock tower

Experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo's premier shopping district, especially lively on Sundays.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Wako Clock Tower, now Seiko House Ginza, is a landmark that truly shines at dusk. Catching its chimes as the city lights up offers a magical experience. Consider visiting on a Sunday when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond the Clock

While the iconic clock tower is a must-see, the building itself houses a premium Seiko boutique. Explore their exquisite watch collections, including exclusive models. The Seiko Museum is also a short walk away, offering a deeper dive into the brand's rich history.

Best Times

When
Dusk
Why
Magical lights and chimes
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Pedestrian paradise
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FREE things to do in Tokyo🇯🇵 Did you know about this FREE Seiko museum in Ginza, Tokyo? Ginza is the birthplace of Seiko, that’s why Ginza crossing is home to a Seiko clock tower. #japantips #traveljapan #japanhack #traveljapan2023 #freethingstodointokyo #theseikomuseumginza #tokyohack #tokyotipps #tokyodaytrip #todointokyo #freetokyo #freetokyoevents Museums in Tokyo, Free museum in Tokyo, Tokyo...
@feolazz
8.8K likes • 133K views

🎯 Hear the Chimes

Listen for the Westminster chimes, especially beautiful at dusk. Instagram

🛍️ Explore Seiko's Finest

The ground floor boasts a wide range of Seiko watches, with exclusive women's models upstairs. TikTokReddit

Watch shopping in Japan #fyp #japan #tokyo #ginza #shopping #haul #watches #travel #seiko
@whatmakesamhappy
7K likes • 272.6K views
#23 welcome to Japan!!🇯🇵 📣 Let's travel to Japan together! @memories_of_japan_ 📍Ginza/銀座   #welcome #japan #japantrip #japantravel #trip #travel #ginza #kabukiza #wako #seiko #seikohouseginza #clocktower #mikoshi #shopping #ようこそ#日本 #日本旅行 #日本観光 #旅行 #観光 #銀座 #歌舞伎座 #和光 #セイコー #SEIKO #時計塔 #神輿 #買い物
memories_of_japan_
28 likes • 1.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Sunday Stroll

Enjoy car-free streets on Sundays for a more relaxed exploration of Ginza. Reddit

📸 Landmark Photo Op

This building is a perfect landmark for meeting up or orienting yourself in Ginza. Reddit

A Retro Ginza Walking Tour: From Landmarks Like the Seiko House Clock Tower to Hidden Tokyo Destinations #pr #japankuru #walkingtour #ginza #ginzashopping #wako #ginzawako #tokyo #tokyotrip #긴자 #와코 #쥬얼리그램 #진주악세사리 #도쿄쇼핑 #ช้อปปิ้งญี่ปุ่น #กินซ่า #เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น #โตเกียว #ช้อปปิ้งกินซ่า #ช้อปปิ้งญี่ปุ่น #日本旅行 #銀座 #銀座逛街 #東京自由行 #銀座購物
japankuru
405 likes • 136.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Hear the Chimes

Listen for the Westminster chimes, especially beautiful at dusk. Instagram

🛍️ Explore Seiko's Finest

The ground floor boasts a wide range of Seiko watches, with exclusive women's models upstairs. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Sunday Stroll

Enjoy car-free streets on Sundays for a more relaxed exploration of Ginza. Reddit

📸 Landmark Photo Op

This building is a perfect landmark for meeting up or orienting yourself in Ginza. Reddit

🕰️ Seiko Museum Nearby

A 5-minute walk away, the Seiko Museum requires advance online reservation. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(454 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors describe the Wako Clock Tower, now Seiko House Ginza, as Tokyo's heartbeat and a timeless cultural icon. They praise its historical significance, elegant architecture, and the exquisite watch collections within the boutique. The chimes and the vibrant atmosphere of Ginza, especially on Sundays, are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects of the experience.

"This isn’t just a building—it’s Tokyo’s heartbeat. The Seiko clock tower at Ginza 4-chome doesn’t just tell time, it tells history. 🕰️⛩️ Born in 1932, scarred by war, rebuilt by stubborn beauty, and still standing tall over the neon frenzy. You look up, see those hands ticking, and you realize: Tokyo keeps moving, but some things remain eternal.

Inside? Pure elegance—marble floors, curated light, watches that feel more like heirlooms than objects. It’s where craftsmanship meets obsession. Where precision is worshipped. Where time feels… heavier, almost sacred.

Come here at dusk when the lights glow and the tower sings Westminster chimes—suddenly, the chaos of Ginza melts into rhythm. It’s a reminder that time isn’t money here—it’s memory, legacy, and soul.

If you’re in Tokyo and skip this, you’ve missed the city’s pulse. 💥🇯🇵

#Tokyo #Ginza #Seiko #SeikoHouseGinza #Luxury #History #Watches #Japan #CulturalIcon #TravelJapan #GinzaCrossing #TimeNeverStops 🕰️✨🌏"

Donald J. Kaufman, Attorney at Law

"Standing on the main Ginza shopping street, the Seiko House Ginza Clock Tower is one of the
most recognizable landmarks in the Ginza district. The impressive building dates back to 1932 and was formerly known as the Wako Main Building before being renamed in 2022."

Gaby

"An architectural iconic landmark within the busy shopping district of Ginza, Tokyo. Inside in 1st floor they have the widest range of Seiko watches and in 2nd floor they have accessories and exclusive watches for women. The Seiko museum is 5 min away. Online reservation in advance is necessary for entering the museum."

Dr. Mehruba Mona

What People Like

Historic landmark
Elegant architecture
Seiko watch collection

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wako Clock Tower (now Seiko House Ginza) is conveniently located at the Ginza 4-chome intersection. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Tokyo Metro to Ginza Station, which is directly connected to the area. Several other subway lines also stop nearby, including Higashi-Ginza and Shimbashi stations. TikTokReddit

Yes, Ginza is very well-connected by train. The JR Yamanote Line stops at nearby Shimbashi Station, and multiple Tokyo Metro lines serve Ginza Station directly, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city. Instagram

Walking is the best way to explore Ginza and its surroundings. On Sundays, the main street is closed to traffic, creating a pedestrian paradise perfect for leisurely strolls and window shopping. Reddit

While there are parking garages in Ginza, they can be expensive and difficult to navigate. Public transportation is highly recommended for visiting the Wako Clock Tower and the surrounding area. Instagram

Taxis are readily available in Tokyo, and you can certainly take one to Ginza. However, be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours, and higher fares compared to public transport. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, viewing the Wako Clock Tower from the outside is completely free. It's a public landmark at the heart of Ginza. TikTok

Seiko House Ginza typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 8 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary. TikTok

Entry to the Seiko boutique on the ground floor of Seiko House Ginza is free. You can browse their extensive watch collections without any charge. Reddit

Yes, the Seiko Museum, located a short walk from the clock tower, requires advance online reservation for entry. Plan ahead to secure your spot. TikTokReddit

Seiko House Ginza sometimes features special window displays and events, especially around anniversaries or new product launches. Keep an eye on their social media or website for announcements. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Wako building, now Seiko House Ginza, houses a premium Seiko boutique on the first floor, offering a wide range of watches. The second floor features accessories and exclusive women's watches. TikTokReddit

Visiting at dusk offers a magical experience as the clock tower lights up and its chimes ring out. Sundays are also great for exploring the pedestrian-friendly streets. InstagramReddit

Yes, the clock tower is known for its Westminster chimes. Many visitors enjoy hearing them, especially during the evening. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The clock tower itself is a stunning subject, and the surrounding Ginza crossing offers dynamic cityscapes, especially at night. Instagram

Originally the Wako Main Building, this landmark dates back to 1932 and has witnessed much of Tokyo's modern history, including being rebuilt after wartime damage. It was renamed Seiko House Ginza in 2022. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Seiko House Ginza is primarily a retail space, the surrounding Ginza district is packed with dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual eateries and cafes. Reddit

Ginza offers a diverse culinary scene. You can find everything from traditional Japanese cuisine like sushi and tempura to international flavors, bakeries, and stylish cafes. Instagram

While Ginza is known for luxury, you can find more affordable options by exploring side streets or looking for department store food halls (depachika) which often have delicious bento boxes and prepared meals. TikTok

Yes, there are numerous cafes and coffee shops in the Ginza area, perfect for a break while exploring. Many offer excellent coffee and pastries. Instagram

For popular or high-end restaurants, making reservations is highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours or on weekends. For more casual places, walk-ins are often possible. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Ginza 4-chome intersection itself provides the best vantage points. Try different angles, especially at dusk when the tower is illuminated. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Seiko House Ginza, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid photographing staff or other customers without permission. Instagram

Dusk is ideal for capturing the clock tower as it lights up against the darkening sky. The surrounding neon signs of Ginza also add to the vibrant atmosphere. Instagram+1

Generally, casual photography is permitted in public areas of Ginza. However, some high-end boutiques or private establishments might have their own policies. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the clock tower and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the bustling intersection. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Ginza is primarily known for luxury shopping, the Wako Clock Tower area can still be an interesting stop for families. The sheer scale of the intersection and the iconic clock tower can capture children's attention. On Sundays, when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, it offers a safer and more enjoyable environment for kids to walk around and experience the bustling city atmosphere. Consider a visit to the nearby Seiko Museum, which might have exhibits that appeal to younger visitors interested in how things work. TikTokReddit

For dining, look for department store food halls (depachika) which offer a wide variety of visually appealing and kid-friendly food options. Many cafes also provide a good spot for a rest and a treat. Remember that Ginza can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is essential. The novelty of the clock tower and the vibrant street scene can make for a memorable part of a family's Tokyo adventure. Instagram

⌚ Watch Enthusiasts

For watch lovers, Seiko House Ginza is a pilgrimage site. The flagship boutique offers an unparalleled selection of Seiko and Grand Seiko timepieces, including rare and exclusive models often unavailable elsewhere. It's an opportunity to admire the craftsmanship and heritage of one of Japan's most iconic watch brands up close. TikTokInstagram+1

Don't miss the chance to visit the Seiko Museum, located just a short walk away, which delves into the brand's fascinating history, showcasing groundbreaking innovations like the world's first quartz watch. The Wako Clock Tower itself is a symbol of precision and timekeeping, making the entire area a fitting tribute to horology. TikTokReddit

📸 Photography Buffs

The Wako Clock Tower and the surrounding Ginza crossing are a photographer's dream, especially during the 'golden hour' and at night. The tower's elegant architecture, combined with the vibrant neon lights and bustling street life of Ginza, creates dynamic and visually striking compositions. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles from the intersection, capture the tower's chimes, and explore the architectural details of the surrounding buildings. Sundays offer a unique photographic opportunity with the pedestrian-only street, allowing for wider shots of the lively scene. Remember to bring a versatile lens and consider a tripod for low-light photography to capture the magic of Ginza after dark. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Renaming of Seiko House Ginza

The iconic clock tower building at Ginza 4-chome, a beloved landmark, has a rich history dating back to 1932. Originally known as the Wako Main Building, it has stood as a symbol of elegance and timekeeping in Tokyo's premier shopping district. Despite wartime damage, the building was meticulously rebuilt, embodying resilience and a commitment to beauty. In 2022, to commemorate its 90th anniversary and its deep connection with the renowned watchmaker, the building was officially renamed Seiko House Ginza. This change signifies its enduring legacy and its role as the flagship home for Seiko's prestigious watch collections. InstagramReddit+1

This landmark is more than just an architectural marvel; it's deeply intertwined with the history of Seiko. Ginza is considered the birthplace of Seiko, and the clock tower has been a constant presence, witnessing the evolution of the brand and the city. Inside, visitors can explore a premium Seiko boutique, showcasing the brand's dedication to precision and craftsmanship. The building's history is a testament to Tokyo's ability to blend tradition with modernity, with the clock tower serving as a timeless anchor in the bustling metropolis. TikTokInstagram+1

Experiencing the Seiko Boutique

Seiko House Ginza is home to a flagship boutique that is a must-visit for watch enthusiasts and anyone appreciating fine craftsmanship. The ground floor features an extensive collection of Seiko watches, from everyday models to more sophisticated timepieces. For those seeking something truly special, the second floor is dedicated to exclusive accessories and high-end women's watches, offering a more curated and luxurious shopping experience. TikTokReddit

Visitors often highlight the opportunity to find watches that are exclusive to the Asian market, making a trip to this boutique a unique shopping opportunity. The boutique is not just a place to buy watches; it's an immersion into the world of Seiko, where the brand's heritage of precision and innovation is palpable. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, the Seiko boutique in Ginza offers a memorable encounter with Japanese watchmaking excellence. TikTokInstagram+1

Ginza: A Shopper's Paradise

The Wako Clock Tower stands at the heart of Ginza, Tokyo's most upscale shopping district. This area is renowned for its luxury department stores, high-end fashion boutiques, and flagship stores of international brands. The architecture itself is a draw, with many buildings showcasing impressive modern and historic designs. Instagram+1

Beyond the luxury shopping, Ginza also offers a vibrant street life. On Sundays, the main Chuo Dori street is closed to vehicular traffic, transforming into a wide pedestrian promenade. This creates a lively atmosphere perfect for leisurely walks, people-watching, and enjoying street performances. The area is also dotted with art galleries, theaters, and a diverse array of dining establishments, making it a comprehensive destination for a day out in Tokyo. InstagramReddit

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