Shinkoro Clock Tower
Discover the Shinkoro Clock Tower, Japan's oldest Japanese-style clock tower, in the beautifully preserved Izushi Castle Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy quiet beauty
Shinkoro Clock Tower
Best Time
Enjoy quiet beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Shinkoro Clock Tower, Japan's oldest Japanese-style clock tower, in the beautifully preserved Izushi Castle Town.
"If you go to enjoy quiet beauty & preserved aspects of history, then it is worth the visit."
🎯 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience and to truly appreciate the preserved history.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the traditional streets and admire the historic architecture. It's a symbol of Izushi town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shinkoro Clock Tower
Izushi Castle Town Center
The oldest Japanese-style clock tower, a beautiful symbol of Izushi's rich history and preserved traditional townscape.
Izushi Castle Town
Izushi, Hyogo Prefecture
Wander through a quintessentially Japanese townscape with stunning torii gates and a palpable sense of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Izushi's Timeless Charm
Getting to Izushi
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience and to truly appreciate the preserved history.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the traditional streets and admire the historic architecture. It's a symbol of Izushi town.
📸 Capture the Charm
The clock tower and surrounding town offer picturesque scenes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience and to truly appreciate the preserved history.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander the traditional streets and admire the historic architecture. It's a symbol of Izushi town.
📸 Capture the Charm
The clock tower and surrounding town offer picturesque scenes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Izushi Castle Town and its Shinkoro Clock Tower to be a charming and historically significant destination, offering a peaceful escape into traditional Japan. Many appreciate the well-preserved atmosphere and the unique cultural experiences, though some note it's a quieter spot best enjoyed with a relaxed pace.
"If you go to enjoy quiet beauty & preserved aspects of history, then it is worth the visit. I would happily visit again."
Aaron Lokkin
"Very nice tower with a clock in the middle of town. It has a lot of history as well."
C Neon
"The old clock tower. It’s a symbol of Izushi town."
Yosh โยชิ Nak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shinkoro Clock Tower is located in Izushi Castle Town. The easiest way to reach Izushi is by bus from Kinosaki Onsen, which is a short ride away.
Yes, Izushi Castle Town is accessible by bus from Kinosaki Onsen. This makes it a convenient stop for travelers visiting the region.
Driving is an option, and there are parking facilities available in Izushi. However, many visitors opt for the bus for a more relaxed journey.
The best way to explore Izushi is on foot. The town is compact and best appreciated by strolling through its historic streets and alleys.
No, Izushi is just a short bus ride away from Kinosaki Onsen, making it an easy addition to your itinerary if you're staying in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Shinkoro Clock Tower is a landmark in the center of town and can be viewed freely from the outside.
There are no general entrance fees for Izushi Castle Town itself. You can freely explore the streets and admire the historic buildings.
The clock tower is a public landmark, so the area is accessible at all times. However, shops and other attractions in the town will have their own operating hours.
Typically, visitors can admire the Shinkoro Clock Tower from the outside. Access to the interior may be restricted or only available during special events.
While there might not be a formal visitor center, local shops and information points can often assist with inquiries about the town and its attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
The clock tower is centrally located, so you can get great shots from various angles in the town square. Consider capturing it with the traditional buildings in the background.
Absolutely! Izushi Castle Town's preserved architecture and traditional atmosphere make it a fantastic location for street photography.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any signs indicating restrictions.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both the clock tower and wider townscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the traditional streets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Izushi is famous for its Izushi-zushi, a type of pressed sushi, and Izushi-ware pottery. Trying these local specialties is a must!
There are several restaurants and eateries located around the clock tower and throughout Izushi Castle Town, offering local cuisine.
Options may vary, but it's advisable to inquire at restaurants about vegetarian dishes. Japanese cuisine often has vegetable-based side dishes.
Izushi-zushi is a unique style of sushi where rice and toppings are pressed into a wooden box, creating a distinct flavor and texture.
Yes, Izushi is known for its Izushi-ware pottery, which makes for excellent souvenirs. You can also find other local crafts and snacks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider trying Izushi-zushi, a visually interesting pressed sushi that might appeal to younger palates. Exploring the town on foot is manageable for families, and the generally low crowd levels on weekdays mean less stress navigating with children. It's a peaceful outing that offers a different pace from more bustling attractions.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Beyond the clock tower, explore the remnants of the castle, visit local museums (if available), and learn about the town's samurai past. The unhurried atmosphere allows for thorough exploration and appreciation of the historical nuances. Don't miss the chance to experience local crafts like Izushi-ware pottery, which further connects you to the region's cultural heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shinkoro Clock Tower: A Historical Gem
Visitors often remark on the tower's quiet beauty and its role in the town's atmosphere. It's a landmark that evokes a sense of stepping back in time, offering a peaceful contrast to modern urban life. The surrounding area is a delight to explore, with many other preserved buildings and traditional shops that complement the tower's historical charm.
For those interested in history and traditional Japanese architecture, the Shinkoro Clock Tower is a must-see. It's a reminder of the craftsmanship and cultural values that have been passed down through the ages, making it a truly special part of any visit to Izushi.
Exploring Izushi Castle Town
Many visitors highlight the quiet beauty and the feeling of stepping into a living museum. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the preserved aspects of history without the overwhelming crowds often found in more popular tourist destinations. The experience is enhanced by the local specialties, such as Izushi-zushi (pressed sushi) and the renowned Izushi-ware pottery, which you can sample and purchase.
Beyond the Shinkoro Clock Tower, take time to explore the various samurai residences, temples, and the remnants of Izushi Castle itself. The town's compact size makes it ideal for leisurely exploration on foot, allowing you to discover hidden gems and soak in the authentic atmosphere at your own pace. It's a destination that rewards those who seek a deeper connection with Japan's rich cultural heritage.
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