Jam Gadang
The landmark clock tower at the center of Bukittinggi, built in 1926 during the Dutch colonial era. Its roof is a pointed Minangkabau-style design, and the square serves as the city's living room.
The clock tower stands about 26 metres tall. Its movement was a gift from the Queen of the Netherlands and is the same model as London's Big Ben. The roof has been changed three times, during the colonial period, during the Japanese occupation period, and after independence, and it now takes the form of a Minangkabau horn-shaped roof. A well-known bit of trivia is that the Roman numeral '4' on the clock face is written as 'IIII'. In the evening, the surrounding square fills with street food stalls and horse-drawn carriages. Visitors can climb the tower for a small admission fee; opening hours vary, so check on site. The Pasar Atas (Upper Market) is right next door.
Opening hours
Square open all day; tower access per on-site information
Nearby sights
- Nasi Kapau at Los Lambuang
- Pasar Atas
- Kinantan Zoo & Rumah Adat Baanjuang Museum
- Fort de Kock & Limpapeh Bridge
- Japanese Tunnels (Lobang Jepang)
- Sianok Canyon
- Bung Hatta Birth House
- Great Wall of Koto Gadang