Landmark
Drum Tower and Bell Tower of Beijing
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The Drum Tower and Bell Tower, built in 1272 and rebuilt in the Ming dynasty, stand at the northern end of Beijing's central axis. The Drum Tower originally housed 24 drums beaten to mark the hours, while the Bell Tower's massive bronze bell rang at dawn and dusk. Today, visitors can climb steep stairs to each tower for panoramic views of the surrounding hutong alleys and traditional courtyard homes. Inside, exhibitions display ancient timekeeping instruments and explain the towers' role in imperial Beijing. The area buzzes with local life and street food stalls.
Don't miss
- Climb the Drum Tower for views over the hutong district
- See the giant bronze bell in the Bell Tower, weighing 63 tons
- Watch the daily drum performance reenacting ancient timekeeping
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Drum Tower and Bell Tower of Beijing
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inForbidden City/Palace Museum and Tiananmen Square Entry Ticket4.7★ · 52 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Best full dayGreat Wall of China at Badaling and Ming Tombs Day Tour from Beijing4.3★ · 802 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$87 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleBeijing Hutong Private 4-Hour Walking Tour w/ Drum & Bell Tower5★ · 12 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$76 per personSee dates →More attractions in Beijing
