I want Big Ben, only in Japanese

August 10, 2008 8:12 PM

I've been trying to find recordings of an *electronic* clock tower chime, like in the first 5-10 seconds or so of this recording. Why an *electronic* version? I miss Japan. In Japan, you hear electronic bell chimes everywhere you go, from schools to supermarkets. I want to hear the "Japanese" version of the clock tower bells. I've spent a lot of time Googling "clock tower" and "clock bells" and haven't had too much luck. Any ideas? Bonus: if anyone could point me to inexpensive desk clocks that make these sounds, I'd greatly appreciate it!
posted by edjusted to Media & Arts (7 answers total)

Freesound.org has a decent library of Japanese field recordings, including street sounds, snippets of conversation, and more. You may find what you're looking for there, or get some of the sounds that you love back in your life!
posted by beaucoupkevin at 8:25 PM on August 10, 2008

Check out the sounds that are included in the Tokyo Train Station set for Adium.
posted by frijole at 8:26 PM on August 10, 2008

"this recording" doesn't work for me. 403 Forbidden.
posted by aubilenon at 9:30 PM on August 10, 2008

It's not exactly what you're asking for, but if you lived in Tokyo the Yamanotesen clock plays all of the station tunes. Makes me smile when I'm missing Japan. There are also Official JR East CD's of station melodies.

My Japanese Googlefu is weak, but I wouldn't be surprised if there are similar CDs of clock chimes, possibly university or school clocks.
posted by Ookseer at 10:21 PM on August 10, 2008

How about this YouTube video? I'm sure you could record the audio output easily.
posted by armage at 10:45 PM on August 10, 2008

Go down to June 5, 2006, on this page to find the referenced recording.

I've got a fancy new digital recorder, so I'll try to snag you a few of these if I can, in the Kyoto/Osaka region.
posted by planetkyoto at 6:39 AM on August 11, 2008

Response by poster: Thanks everyone! I'm checking out everyone's links as I speak. And planetkyoto, I'd be forever in your debt if you do have the time to make some recordings!
posted by edjusted at 8:56 PM on August 11, 2008