Xi'an Bell Tower and Drum Tower

Standing at the exact heart of Xi'an, the Ming-dynasty Bell Tower and Drum Tower are the city's timeless timekeepers. Their twin silhouettes glow gold at night, framing the bustling Bell Tower Square. With our private guide, you'll skip the ticket lines, learn the stories behind the bronze bells and giant drums, and enjoy the best rooftop views over the ancient capital.

Xi'an Bell and Drum Towers with traditional Ming architecture under blue sky

What it is

Built in 1384 under the Ming dynasty, the Bell Tower originally marked the geographical center of Xi'an and sounded the start of each day. The Drum Tower, erected four years later, beat the evening curfew. Together they formed the city's official timekeeping system for over five centuries. Both towers were relocated and rebuilt in their current positions, and their wooden structures have survived earthquakes and wars. Today they are cherished symbols of Xi'an's long history as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road.

The Bell Tower houses a massive bronze bell cast in the Tang dynasty, while the Drum Tower displays a collection of ancient drums, including a giant replica used for performances. Visitors can climb the steep staircases to the upper galleries, where exhibitions of Ming and Qing furniture and artifacts are displayed. The towers are illuminated at night, creating a stunning contrast with the modern city lights. For a deeper dive into Xi'an's history, see our Xi'an City Wall guide.

Highlights

Panoramic City Views — From the top galleries, look down on the circular traffic of Bell Tower Square and the grid of ancient streets radiating outward.
Ancient Timekeeping Relics — See the original Tang bronze bell and the massive drum that once regulated daily life in the Ming city.
Nightly Illumination — After sunset, both towers are bathed in golden light, offering a magical photo opportunity against the dark sky.
Traditional Performances — Catch scheduled performances of ancient music and drumming inside the towers, included with your ticket.
Architectural Details — Admire the intricate dougong brackets, painted beams, and triple-eaved roofs typical of Ming wooden architecture.

Visitors entering Xi'an Bell Tower via underground passage entrance

How to get there

Located in the exact center of Xi'an, the towers are easily reached by Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station (Exit C). Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient, but traffic around the square can be heavy. We recommend visiting as part of a guided walking tour that includes the nearby City Wall and Muslim Quarter, allowing you to experience the area's vibrant atmosphere without the hassle of navigation.

Tickets & practical info

Admission: ¥30 for Bell Tower, ¥30 for Drum Tower, or ¥50 for a combined ticket. Opening hours: 8:30-20:30 (April-October), 8:30-18:00 (November-March). Book via WeChat official account or at the gate; foreign cards accepted at ticket counters, but WeChat Pay/Alipay are preferred for speed.

Best time to visit

Visit during the golden hour before sunset to see the towers in daylight, then stay for the illumination. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer comfortable weather. Avoid weekends and Chinese holidays when crowds are intense. Early morning is quieter for photography.

Tips from our guides

Purchase the combined ticket for both towers to save ¥10 and skip one queue.
Climb the Bell Tower first, then the Drum Tower, as the latter offers better views of the illuminated Bell Tower at night.
Bring your passport for ticket purchase, as it's required for foreign visitors.
Use the pedestrian underpass to cross the busy intersection safely; follow signs for the towers.
For the best night photos, position yourself on the southwest corner of the square or from the balcony of a nearby restaurant.

Detailed view of ancient bronze bell inside Xi'an Bell Tower

FAQ

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons via the official WeChat account. Tickets are often available on-site, but booking ensures entry and saves time.

Are the towers wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the historic structures have steep staircases and no elevators, making wheelchair access very limited. The ground-level squares are accessible.

What is the best time to visit?

Late afternoon to evening is ideal: you can see the towers in daylight and then enjoy the nighttime illumination. Avoid midday crowds.

Can I pay with a foreign credit card?

Yes, major credit cards are accepted at ticket counters, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more common and faster. Set up Alipay with your card before your trip.