Are you a Ghibli fan? Have you tried to get tickets to the museum in Mitaka? I’ve heard it can be difficult. Well, there is something else you can do if you can’t get into it. There is a magnificent Hayao Miyazaki-designed clock in Shinbashi. Put it on your list of things to see in Tokyo! It is one of the best pieces of public art in the city.
It has an official name, “Nittele Oodokei” (Nippon Television’s Big Clock). Of course, Miyazaki designed it, but Kunio Shachimaru built it. He is the guy who also created the Ghibli Museum’s Robot Soldier.
The clock is ten meters high and eighteen 18 meters wide. It took six years to complete. The monster weighs 28 tons. Does it remind you of a certain movie?
Have you seen a Miyazaki movie? My favorites are My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery service. Well, as fans know, he fills his works with details. His Nippon Television clock is no exception.
It might be impossible to spot everything on your first visit. You might, but only after spending a long time looking at it. Does it look similar to Miyazaki’s 2004 film Howl’s Moving Castle?
Many people say that, but Miyazaki never confirmed it. Between you and me, I think so too! Anyway, the clock appeared around the same time as the movie. Both have a Steampunk vibe.
There are two things I love about the clock. One is the gun turret on the right with its short, stubby barrels. The other is the claws.
I love the claws that move Howl’s castle. Maybe dragons inspired them. They are armored and nearly as tall as a person.
The castle (let’s call it that) has many rooms. They contain machines and characters. Everything plays a part in making the clock move.
Yes, it tells the time. The clock also comes to life four times a day during the week at 12 p.m., 3 p.m., 6 p.m., and 8 p.m. On weekends, there is an extra show at 10 a.m. Just make sure you turn up early so you don’t miss it!
It is on the second floor of the Nittele (i.e., Nippon Television) Tower. It’s accessible from Shinbashi Station. Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train stations
2. Shinbashi and Shiodome on the Yurikamome Line.
Opening hours
24 hours a day.
Skyscrapers surround the building. They cast shadows.
To avoid those, check where the sun will be before you go. You can use an online tool like SunCalc to do that. I only thought of that when I got home!
Another idea is to go there on an overcast day. The light will be diffused, saving you much trouble.
Miyazaki’s clock is another Tokyo treasure, filled with creativity and imagination. For Ghibli fans or those seeking Tokyo magic, visit this whimsical masterpiece. It’ll give you an unforgettable journey into the master’s fantastical world. Be sure to add this hidden gem in bustling Shinbashi to your itinerary. It is timed perfection. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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