The Beijing Bell and Drum Towers, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, have stood for centuries as the city’s official timekeeping center during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Positioned along Beijing’s central axis, these towering structures not only played a critical role in regulating time but also served as iconic landmarks. Their grand presence at the northern end of the city’s axis, known as the “rear protection” of the Forbidden City, marks them as key urban symbols. As the heart of ancient timekeeping in the capital, the Bell and Drum Towers remain must-visit sites for both their historical significance and architectural beauty.
Key Features of the Bell and Drum Towers
The Drum Tower: Located at the northernmost point of Beijing’s central axis, the Drum Tower stands 46.7 meters tall. It was the central timekeeping structure during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Visitors today can still feel the echoes of history within its walls, where ancient drums once marked the passage of hours for the entire city.
The Bell Tower: Situated about 100 meters away from the Drum Tower, the Bell Tower reaches a height of 47.9 meters and houses a massive bronze bell. This bell, cast during the reign of Emperor Yongle in the Ming Dynasty, weighs approximately 63 tons and is the largest surviving ancient bronze bell in China. Its deep resonating sound once served as the time signal for the city.
Exhibitions and Viewpoints
Drum Tower Exhibitions: Inside the Drum Tower, exhibitions focus on timekeeping instruments and methods used in ancient China. Visitors can view artifacts such as the drums used to announce time and bronze water clocks. There’s also a viewing platform on the second floor of the Drum Tower, offering panoramic views of Beijing. From this vantage point, visitors can take in sweeping views of the city’s skyline and its surrounding landmarks.
Bell Tower Exhibitions: The Bell Tower houses exhibitions centered on China’s dragon culture, and visitors can ascend to the top of the tower for an up-close look at the ancient bell. This vantage point also offers breathtaking views of the northern part of Beijing, with clear lines of sight toward:
- South: The Drum Tower, with its prominent presence on the central axis.
- West: The Xizhimen area, including the TV tower and distant western mountains.
- North: The Olympic Tower, one of the most recognizable modern landmarks in Beijing.
- East: The iconic buildings of the Beijing CBD, including the China World Trade Center.
For visitors with extra time, the nearby Shichahai Lake and Nanluoguxiang Hutong offer a deeper glimpse into Beijing’s traditional culture. Wander through Beijing’s famous hutongs and indulge in local Beijing snacks, immersing yourself in the rich atmosphere of the city’s past.
Practical Information
Address: No. 9 Zhonglouwan, Dongcheng District, Beijing
How to Get There:
- Subway: Take Line 8 to Shichahai Station, and walk 400 meters north.
- Bus: Several bus lines, including 82, 135, 5, 60, 107, and 124, stop at the Drum Tower.
Opening Hours:
- Off-season (October 26 – April 25): 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Peak season (April 26 – October 25): 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Combo ticket for Bell and Drum Towers: 30 RMB
- Drum Tower only: 20 RMB
- Bell Tower only: 10 RMB
Lighting Hours: The Drum Tower lights up every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and during major holidays. There are no lights Monday through Thursday.