The heart of Xi’an – the Bell Tower and Drum Tower

The Bell Tower (钟楼) and Drum Tower (鼓楼) are two of Xi’an’s most iconic landmarks, located in the heart of the city. Built during the Ming Dynasty, these towers were used to announce time and warn the city of emergencies.

Today, they are must-visit attractions that offer stunning architecture, historical artifacts, and panoramic views of Xi’an.

History of the Bell Tower & Drum Tower

Bell Tower (Built in 1384, Ming Dynasty)

• The Bell Tower was built by Ming Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang to protect the city from invasions.
• Originally located near Xi’an’s central city wall, it was moved to its current location in 1582.
• The massive bronze bell (钟铃) inside was used to announce the time each morning.

Drum Tower (Built in 1380, Ming Dynasty)

• Built four years before the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower was used to mark time in the evening.
• It housed 24 giant drums, representing the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar.
• The drums were also beaten to warn of enemy attacks during wartime.

Together, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower played a key role in regulating time for the city before modern clocks were introduced.

What to See at the Bell Tower & Drum Tower

The Bell Tower:

The Giant Bronze Bell – A 5,000 kg bell, cast in the Ming Dynasty.
Ancient Architecture – A three-story wooden structure built with no nails, showcasing traditional Ming Dynasty design.
360° City View – Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of central Xi’an.
Evening Light Show – At night, the tower is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

The Drum Tower

24 Giant Drums – Each drum represents a different seasonal period in the Chinese calendar.
Daily Drum Performance (Included with Ticket) – Watch a traditional drumming show, performed five times a day:

• 9:10 AM | 10:30 AM | 11:30 AM | 2:30 PM | 3:30 PM | 4:30 PM.

Ancient Chinese Calligraphy & Musical Instruments – Inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved Tang Dynasty artifacts.
Top Floor Views – Offers an amazing sunset view over the Muslim Quarter.

How to get to the Bell Tower & Drum Tower

Location

Bell Tower: Bell Tower Square, Beilin District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province

Drum Tower: 300 meters west of the Bell Tower, near the Muslim Quarter

What to visit nearby:

• Muslim Quarter (5-minute walk)
• Xi’an City Wall (10-minute walk)
• Great Mosque of Xi’an (10-minute walk)
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda (15-minute drive)

How to get to the Bell Tower & Drum Tower

By Metro

• Line 2: Get off at Bell Tower Station (Exit C) – The Bell Tower is directly above the station.

By Bus: Take buses 6, 7, 8, 11, 26, 29, 45, 46 to Bell Tower Stop.

By Taxi: Tell the driver “钟楼 (Zhōnglóu) / 鼓楼 (Gǔlóu)”.

Opening Hours

• April – October: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM
• November – March: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Ticket Information

• Bell Tower Ticket: 30 CNY
• Drum Tower Ticket: 30 CNY
• Combo Ticket (Both Towers): 50 CNY
• Tickets Available At: Ticket counter or online booking (WeChat mini-programs available).

Best Time to Visit

• Morning (8:30 AM – 11:00 AM): Fewer crowds, great for photos.
• Evening (7:00 PM – 9:30 PM): Towers are beautifully lit up at night, creating a romantic atmosphere.
• Best seasons: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November).

Travel Tips

Visit the Drum Tower before the Bell Tower – The drum performance is a must-see!
Go in the evening – The towers are beautifully lit up at night.
Buy the Combo Ticket – Saves 10 CNY and allows access to both towers.
Explore the Muslim Quarter after visiting – Just 5 minutes away, great for street food & souvenirs.