🗺️ Stray Clock野良時計

In the mid-Meiji era, when clocks were not yet widespread, the local landlord, Hatanaka Genma, self-taught the technique of clock assembly, creating a clock tower entirely by hand, from the gears to the weights. In 1996 (Heisei 8), it was designated as a national registered tangible cultural property. Standing amidst the rural landscape, the Japanese house with its clock tower features a Roman numeral dial that impressively showcases Western style, making it a representative scenery of Aki City. In summer, sunflowers bloom in front of the clock tower, and in autumn, cosmos flowers flourish, creating a charming landscape that beautifully combines the clock tower with seasonal flowers. It is said that when Hatanaka was 10 years old, his father bought him an octagonal American wall clock, which he disassembled and reassembled multiple times, mastering the structure of clocks almost entirely through self-study. Although the clock is currently stopped, it is activated with the assistance of the owner during tourist seasons or events. Additionally, the Norabell is located within a private residence and is not open to the public; visitors are requested to observe etiquette when visiting.

In the mid-Meiji era, when clocks were not yet widespread, a clock was handcrafted by the local landowner, Hatanaka Genma. Its elegant form, standing amidst the rural landscape, is a symbol of Aki City and is widely recognized. It is a famous flower viewing spot known for its sunflowers and cosmos.