If you’re planning your Xi’an Tour, this complete guide will show you how to visit Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an. The guide includes everything from ticket prices to the history of these landmarks and what you can expect during your visit.
Xi’an, one of China’s ancient capitals, is a city rich in history and culture. Among its most iconic landmarks are the Bell Tower and Drum Tower. The two ancient structures stand as symbols of the city’s heritage. Both towers are located at the heart of Xi’an and offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.
1. A Brief History of the Bell and Drum Towers
Before diving into how to visit Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an, it’s important to understand their historical significance. These towers were built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and served as key communication centers in ancient Xi’an.
Bell Tower History
The Bell Tower was constructed in 1384 by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. It was originally located near the Drum Tower. It was later moved to its current location in 1582 to align with the central axis of the city. The tower once housed a large bell used to signal the start of the day. It was a traditional method of keeping time in ancient China.
Drum Tower History
The Drum Tower is slightly older, built in 1380, and it was used to mark the end of the day. Large drums were beaten each evening to signal the closure of the city gates. Both the Bell and Drum Towers played essential roles in regulating life within the city walls. The two tower helped to control the flow of people and goods into and out of Xi’an.
2. How to Get to Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an
Knowing how to get to Bell Tower in Xi’an and how to get to Drum Tower in Xi’an is essential for planning your visit. The good news is that both towers are centrally located and easily accessible.
By Subway
The easiest way to reach the towers is by taking Subway Line 2 and getting off at Zhonglou Station (Bell Tower Station). From the station, the Bell Tower is just a short walk away, and the Drum Tower is located nearby, about 200 meters to the west.
By Bus
Several bus routes also stop near the towers. Popular routes include Bus No. 4, 6, 7, and No. 45, which stop at Bell Tower Station. The towers are close to Xi’an’s main attractions, so public transport is a convenient and affordable option.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like DiDi are also readily available in Xi’an. A ride to the Bell Tower from most parts of the city costs around 15-20 RMB.
3. How to Book Tickets for Xi’an Bell and Drum Towers
The Xi’an Bell and Drum Tower Museum has cancelled its previous “reservation requirement” for visiting. This means that visitors can now purchase tickets directly without the need for advance reservations. Tickets can be bought through the WeChat/Alipay mini-program by searching for “Xi’an Bell Tower” or “Xi’an Drum Tower.”
Additionally, there is still a manual ticket window for visitors who prefer to purchase tickets on-site. Tickets can be bought in the following ways:
- Direct Online Purchase: Visitors can conveniently buy tickets through the WeChat/Alipay mini-program, which offers a quick and easy ticketing process for seamless entry.
- On-site Purchase: For those who haven’t bought tickets online, the museum provides an on-site ticket window for purchasing tickets in person.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
- Adult tickets: 50 RMB, which covers entry to both the Xi’an Bell Tower and Xi’an Drum Tower.
- If you want to buy only one ticket for one of the two towers, each tower costs RMB 35.
- Discount policies:
- Children: Free for children under 1.2 meters or aged 6 years and below. Half-price for minors aged 6 (above 6) to 18 years old.
- Students: Half-price for full-time undergraduate students and below.
- Seniors: Free for seniors aged 65 and above.
- Military personnel: Free for active-duty soldiers with military ID.
- Disabled individuals: Free with a valid disability certificate.
These discounts provide flexibility and convenience for various age groups and social categories. Visitors can choose the appropriate ticket type based on their eligibility.
4. Opening Hours for Bell and Drum Towers
Bell Tower Opening Hours
The Xi’an Bell Tower is open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM, with ticket sales stopping at 9:00 PM and the last entry at 9:30 PM. This schedule applies to the peak season (January 1 to October 10) .
For for the off-peak season (October 11 to December 31), the Bell Tower also welcomes visitors at 8:30 AM, but it closes earlier at 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:30 PM.
Drum Tower Opening Hours
The Xi’an Drum Tower is open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM, with ticket sales ending at 9:00 PM and the last entry allowed until 9:30 PM for peak season ( January 1 to October 10).
For the off-peak season (October 11 to December 31), the Drum Tower opening hours are adjusted to 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
5. Best Time to Visit Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an
The best time to visit Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Xi’an can be quite hot in the summer and cold in the winter, so visiting during these milder seasons ensures a more comfortable experience.
For those interested in photography, visiting in the late afternoon or early evening is ideal. The Bell Tower is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a picturesque view of the city center. If you visit the Drum Tower in the evening, you can also enjoy the surrounding Muslim Quarter’s vibrant night market.
6. Things to Do at Bell and Drum Towers
There’s plenty to see and do when exploring Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an. From ancient relics to panoramic city views, these towers offer a unique window into Xi’an’s history.
1 ）Bell Tower Highlights
The Bell Tower is known for its impressive architecture, combining elements of traditional Chinese design with grand, elevated views. Inside the tower, you’ll find the famous Bell of Jingyun, a massive bronze bell dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can also admire ancient musical instruments displayed inside.
Make sure to climb to the top of the Bell Tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Xi’an’s city center. The bustling streets and nearby Drum Tower can be seen from above, making this an excellent spot for photography.
The musical performance at the Bell Tower in Xi’an is one of the highlights of visiting this ancient landmark. These performances offer a unique opportunity to experience traditional Chinese music played on ancient instruments, bringing to life the cultural and historical significance of the Bell Tower.
What to Expect from the Musical Performance
The performances feature traditional Chinese instruments, including:
- Bianzhong (bronze bells)
- Guqin (a traditional seven-stringed instrument)
- Pipa (a Chinese lute)
Musicians, often dressed in traditional attire, perform pieces that date back to the Tang Dynasty, enhancing the cultural atmosphere of the tower. The setting, with its centuries-old architecture and the melodic tones of these instruments, creates a truly immersive experience.
Schedule and Tickets
The musical performances usually take place multiple times a day, with shows in both the morning and afternoon. Each performance lasts about 15-20 minutes, providing a delightful interlude during your visit. These performances are included in the Bell Tower admission fee, so there is no need for a separate ticket.
To catch the show, be sure to check the performance schedule upon entering the Bell Tower to time your visit accordingly. Watching the musical performance is highly recommended, as it adds a deeper cultural layer to your exploration of Xi’an’s Bell Tower.
2） Drum Tower Highlights
The Drum Tower houses a collection of large drums, each one intricately decorated. Throughout the day, there are scheduled drum performances, where performers reenact the ancient ritual of drum beating, used in imperial times to signal the end of the day.
These shows are a highlight of the Drum Tower visit, and they provide a cultural experience not to be missed.
At the top of the Drum Tower, visitors can enjoy views of the Muslim Quarter and surrounding areas, making it another excellent vantage point for sightseeing.
7. Bell Tower and Drum Tower Architecture
The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are remarkable examples of traditional Chinese architecture. The Bell Tower stands at over 40 meters (130 feet) high and is built entirely from wood and stone, with its elegant curved roof and intricate eaves displaying the grandeur of Ming Dynasty design.
The Drum Tower is similarly striking, with a height of 34 meters (112 feet). It has a two-story structure, supported by massive beams and adorned with colorful decorative elements. Both towers feature beautiful wood carvings, ornate tiles, and red columns, which symbolize the royal and ceremonial significance of these structures in ancient China.
8. Cultural Significance
The cultural significance of Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an goes beyond their architectural beauty. These towers played a central role in the daily life of the ancient city, helping to regulate time, manage trade, and control the opening and closing of the city gates.
For centuries, the sound of the bell marked the start of the day, and the drum signalled the end. This ancient timekeeping system helped maintain order in Xi’an. Xi’an was once the starting point of the Silk Road and one of the most important cities in the world. Visiting these towers is a chance to connect with the city’s rich heritage and its role as a hub of cultural and economic exchange.
9. Xi’an Bell and Drum Towers Travel Tips
To make the most of your visit, here are a few essential Xi’an Bell and Drum Towers travel tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes: Both towers involve climbing steep stairs to reach the top. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear for the ascent.
- Bring a camera: The views from both towers are incredible, especially at sunset or when the Bell Tower is illuminated at night.
- Attend the drum or bell performances: Check the performance schedule at the Drum Tower or Bell Tower, and try to catch one of the daily musical shows.
- Combine with the Muslim Quarter: The Muslim Quarter is just steps away from the Drum Tower and offers some of Xi’an’s best street food and local shopping.
10. Top Attractions Nearby
After visiting the Bell and Drum Towers, take time to explore the surrounding area. The nearby Muslim Quarter is famous for its bustling street market, filled with local delicacies such as roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and yangrou paomo (lamb stew).
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is also within walking distance and offers a unique fusion of Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.
For those interested in shopping, Beiyuanmen Street and the area around the Bell Tower are great places to pick up souvenirs and explore local crafts.
Visiting the Bell and Drum Towers is a must-do activity for anyone traveling to Xi’an. These iconic landmarks offer more than just historical significance; they provide an immersive experience of China’s cultural past.
With this complete guide, you now know how to visit Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an. It includes practical tips on transportation, ticket prices, and what to see. Whether you’re admiring the ancient architecture, attending a drum performance, or enjoying the stunning city views, your visit to these towers will be a highlight of your Xi’an trip.
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Planning your Xi’an Tour? Our ” Xi’an Travel Guide” section offers essential advice to help you navigate the city like a pro. From transportation tips and local customs to insider recommendations for hidden gems, these travel tips will ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience in China’s vibrant capital. Let us guide you through the best practices for exploring Xi’an with confidence!