Noradokei, Historical clock house in Aki, Japan
Noradokei is a residence in Aki distinguished by clock faces mounted on three sides of its structure, oriented toward the east, north, and west directions. The mechanical systems reflect Meiji period craftsmanship, with each component handmade using traditional methods that required considerable skill and knowledge.
Local landowner Gemma Hatanaka built the structure in 1887 after studying European timepieces and gaining knowledge of their mechanics. He personally crafted every mechanical component, merging western technological understanding with Japanese handcraft traditions.
The house is recognized locally as a symbol of craftsmanship and technical skill that fascinates visitors interested in traditional Japanese building methods. People still regard it as a testament to how deeply one family invested in precision and mechanical innovation.
The house stands at 638-4 Doi in Aki and remains visible from the outside during daylight hours. Free parking is available at nearby Mizonobe Park, making a visit straightforward and accessible.
The clocks operated continuously for more than a century until 2004, when they stopped following the death of Hatanaka's grandson, who had maintained the intricate systems. This detail reveals how deeply one family was invested in keeping the mechanism running and the effort required for its care.
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