Thursday Travel : Ghibli Clock, Tokyo, Japan

This is one of Tokyo's hidden gems.

The massive Ghibli Clock is located in front of the Nittele Tower (the headquarters of Nippon Television). It was created by Hayao Miyazaki, the well-known director and co-founder of Japanese animation Studio Ghibli.

The clock is massive: more than 20 tonnes of copper and steel, three stories tall, and 60 feet wide. Aside from chiming the time, there are over 30 mechanical scenes at specific times, including cannons, blacksmiths, a wheel spinner, a boiling teapot, and two bell-headed cranks.

You can see a FREE performance at the following times:

Weekends: 10 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, 8 pm
Weekdays: 12 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, 8 pm.

The clock starts moving 3 minutes before the hour, so arrive early.

How to get there:

If you are using subway you need to get to Shimbashi Station.

Also, if you plan to visit Odaiba, you have to take the monorail at Shimbashi Station. So, Ghibli Clock is a great spot to stop and take a break while exploring.

A monorail system called the Yurikamome line runs from Shimbashi Station to Toyosu Station, which is close to Toyosu Market. The easiest way to get there via monorail which goes around the bay in beautiful route.

To ride the monorail, you can use JR Pass.

Also, the Tokyo Monorail accepts Suica and Pasmo cards.

These cards are loaded with pre-paid money and activated with a ¥500 deposit. Your deposit will be reimbursed after the card will be returned at the airport at the end of your trip.

Additionally, for better views and great videos, take the driver's seat when riding the monorail.

Enjoy your trip!