Asuka Mizuochi Site, Ancient water clock ruins in Asuka, Japan
The Asuka Mizuochi Site is an ancient archaeological location with a square platform and stone foundations designed to measure time through water flow. Excavations have revealed wooden conduits and copper pipes arranged to create an intricate system for precise timekeeping.
Prince Nakano no Ōe introduced this water clock technology from China to Japan in the 7th century during Empress Saimei's reign. This adoption marked an important moment when Japan began to learn from advanced foreign techniques.
The water clock represented imperial authority and Japan's early connection to advanced Chinese technology of that era. Today visitors can sense how important time measurement was in the early Japanese court and society.
The site lies between Asuka Temple and Mount Amakashi and is reachable by walking paths through the area. Restored pillars and excavated remains help visitors understand how the water clock system once worked.
A black-lacquered wooden box was found buried about one meter beneath the main platform, forming the heart of the water clock system. This hidden chamber connected to the network of pipes that allowed precise time measurement.
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