Atkinson Clock Tower | Kota Kinabalu

The Atkinson Clock Tower is a historical landmark located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. It is one of the oldest surviving colonial buildings in the city and stands as a symbol of Kota Kinabalu’s rich history. The clock tower offers both historical significance and scenic views of the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Overview

• Location: The Atkinson Clock Tower is located on a hilltop in the Gaya Street area, just a short walk from the city center of Kota Kinabalu. The tower sits at the foot of Signal Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
• Built: The clock tower was built in 1905, making it one of the oldest structures in the city.
• Named After: The clock tower is named after William Clarke Atkinson, the first district officer of the then British North Borneo, who died in 1902. It was constructed as a memorial in his honor.

Historical Significance

• The Atkinson Clock Tower was constructed to commemorate the life of William Clarke Atkinson, who was known for his contributions to the development of Kota Kinabalu (formerly Jesselton).
• Atkinson was instrumental in establishing Kota Kinabalu as a trading post and administrative center during the British colonial period. His work contributed to the growth and development of the city, which was a key port in British North Borneo.
• The clock tower is one of the few remaining structures from the colonial era in the city, making it a key piece of Kota Kinabalu's heritage and history.

Design and Architecture

• The Atkinson Clock Tower is a simple yet elegant structure, built using timber and iron materials, typical of the early 20th-century colonial architecture in the region.
• The clock tower is three stories high, with a clock face on each of its four sides. The tower has a modest yet dignified design, with a wooden structure painted white, giving it a clean and timeless look.
• The design of the tower is square-shaped, with a pyramid-shaped roof. The clock itself is housed at the top of the tower, and its hands are visible from the surrounding streets, offering both functionality and a striking focal point.
• The clock face has a distinct, vintage look, and it continues to operate, keeping time for the city, as it has done for more than a century.

Features

Clock Faces:

• The clock has four large clock faces, one on each side of the tower. These clock faces are visible from various parts of the city, making it a prominent landmark.
• The clock is still functional and is one of the most well-preserved features of the tower.

Panoramic View:

• The clock tower is situated on a hill, providing a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu and its surrounding areas. From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy views of the city, the coastline, the South China Sea, and even the distant Mount Kinabalu on clear days.
• The view is particularly striking during sunrise and sunset, making the area a great spot for photography.

Memorial Plaque:

• A commemorative plaque on the base of the tower honors William Clarke Atkinson and his contributions to the development of the region. This plaque adds a layer of historical depth to the site, educating visitors about the importance of Atkinson’s work in shaping Kota Kinabalu.

Visitor Experience

• The Atkinson Clock Tower is open to the public, and there is no entrance fee to visit. The tower itself is located in a park-like area, which is often frequented by tourists and locals taking a break or enjoying the surrounding greenery.
• While there is no access to the top of the tower, the surrounding hill and nearby Signal Hill Observatory provide an excellent vantage point for visitors to enjoy the views of Kota Kinabalu and its surroundings.
• Visitors can learn about the history of the clock tower and Atkinson's legacy by reading the information plaques and signs around the tower.

Nearby Attractions

Signal Hill Observatory:

• The Signal Hill Observatory is located near the Atkinson Clock Tower and offers one of the best viewpoints in Kota Kinabalu. The observatory provides sweeping views of the city, coastline, and Mount Kinabalu. It is a short walk from the clock tower and is a great spot for tourists looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

Gaya Street:

• Gaya Street is a popular area in Kota Kinabalu known for its Sunday market, which is filled with stalls selling local goods, crafts, and food. The street is also home to colonial-era buildings, making it an interesting place to explore for those interested in history and culture. The Atkinson Clock Tower is located just a short walk from the main part of Gaya Street.

City Mosque:

• The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, also known as the “floating mosque,” is another prominent landmark in the city. It is located a short distance from the Atkinson Clock Tower and offers a beautiful example of modern Islamic architecture with stunning views of the sea.

Esplanade:

• The Kota Kinabalu Esplanade is located along the waterfront and is a popular spot to enjoy the sea breeze and sunset. The esplanade offers great views of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and it’s a lovely place to relax or take a leisurely walk along the water.

How to Get There

• By Car: The Atkinson Clock Tower is easily accessible from the city center by car. The location is within walking distance of many major attractions in Kota Kinabalu, including the Gaya Street area and the Signal Hill Observatory.
• Walking: The clock tower is a popular walking destination, and it is located near the city’s commercial district. Visitors can easily walk to the clock tower from nearby attractions such as Gaya Street or the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront.

Conclusion

The Atkinson Clock Tower is an important historical landmark in Kota Kinabalu, offering insight into the city’s colonial past and its development as a major port in British North Borneo. The tower’s architecture, the scenic views from Signal Hill, and its historical significance make it a must-visit spot for tourists interested in the heritage of the area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy the views, the Atkinson Clock Tower provides a memorable experience.