NTV big clock, A Clockwork Fantasy by Miyazaki
Japan 105-0021 Tokyo Minato-ku Higashishinbashi, 1 Chome6-1 Nippon Television Tower
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Introduction
A unique clock designed by director Hayao Miyazaki, known for "Howl's Moving Castle," stands prominently in front of the Nippon Television Tower in Tokyo Shiodome. This grand clock, resembling a moving castle with a turret on top, is divided into three parts: the central "dial," the "blacksmith family" on the right, and the "clockmaker family" on the left. It features a total of 32 movable mechanisms, with the "clockmaker family" producing sound through clockwork figures that bow and play drums, while the "blacksmith family" provides power and uses lightbulb-headed figures to strike a forge and emit mist resembling smoke. Additionally, the gems on the clock's hands open and close, showcasing various mechanical actions in just three short minutes. The clock took six years to complete, including five years of design work and one year and four months for construction. It is made up of 1,228 copper plates, stands 12 meters tall, 18 meters wide, 3 meters thick, and weighs a total of 28 tons. The clock will serve as a regular attraction for tourism and visits. Miyazaki expressed, "I hope everyone enjoys this peculiar clock, even if there are inaccuracies in time. Let it not become a timer that brings about the extinction of humanity!" Address Japan 105-0021 Tokyo Minato-ku Higashishinbashi, 1 Chome6-1 Nippon Television Tower
Transportation Shiodome Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
