Nagoya Station, a focal point of the city’s bustling activity, houses more than just the rumble of trains and the rush of daily commuters. Within this transit hub lie two iconic landmarks, the Gold and Silver Clocks, standing at opposite ends of the station and serving as timeless meeting spots for locals and travelers. These clocks offer more than just the time of day; they hold stories and traditions within their metallic frames.
Meet at Gold
On the eastern end, near the Sakuradori Exit, lies the Gold Clock or “kin-no-tokei,” as it is known in Japanese. Its location near Takashimaya and in front of four escalators makes it a prominent spot, earning it a reputation as a “wait and meet” icon. Amidst the rush, the Gold Clock stands as a serene yet significant landmark, its golden hue a symbol of reunion and camaraderie. Like its silver counterpart, the Gold Clock is not merely a functional item but a staple of Nagoya’s vibrant culture.
Meet at Silver
Tucked on the western side of JR Nagoya Station at the Taikoudori Exit, the Silver Clock is more than a mere timekeeper. Known for its proximity to the ticket gates, it has become a common rendezvous point for people. The Silver Clock seems to stand guard over the busy goings of the station, its metallic shine a familiar sight for many. Legend has it that it also watches over its golden sibling on the eastern side of the station, ensuring a sense of balance within the bustling terminal.
More Than Timekeepers
The Silver and Gold Clocks are part of a broader landscape of landmarks around Nagoya Station. Together with the towering JR Central Towers and shopping havens like the Esca Underground Mall and Takashimaya department store, these clocks are woven into the people’s daily lives in Nagoya. They do more than tick away the hours; they offer a sense of place and tradition amidst the modern urban rush.
As common rendezvous points, these clocks have witnessed countless reunions, farewells, and the simple joy of shared moments. They stand as silent yet significant witnesses to the daily narratives of the city, intertwining the old with the new, tradition with modernity, and the passing of time with the enduring nature of human connections.
In a world that constantly races against time, the SGold and Silver Clocks of Nagoya Station remind us of the simple joys of pause, reflection, and togetherness amidst the urban hustle. Their metallic faces, etched with time, continue to draw people together, making the station more than just a transit point but a place of shared stories and timeless memories.
KKPCW（Kyu3）, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
ButuCC, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
ButuCC, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
