Beijing Drum and Bell Towers

The Beijing Drum and Bell Towers are two ancient structures located at the north end of Beijing's central axis in Dongcheng District. Comprising the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, they were originally built during the Yuan Dynasty, with the existing structures dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. They served as the timekeeping center for three dynasties—Yuan, Ming, and Qing—carrying on the ancient Chinese tradition of "morning bell and evening drum." Today, they stand as significant historical and cultural landmarks in Beijing. --- ### **Key Information** 1. **Location and Transportation** - **Address**: No. 9, Zhonglouwan Linzi, Dongcheng District, Beijing (near Shichahai and Nanluoguxiang) - **Transportation**: Take Subway Line 8 to Shichahai Station (Exit A2), then walk for about 5 minutes; or take bus No. 5, 82, 60, etc., to "Gulou Station." 2. **Historical Background** - **Drum Tower**: Originally built in 1272 (the ninth year of the Zhiyuan period of the Yuan Dynasty), it was initially named "Qizheng Tower." It was rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty, with the current structure completed in 1420 (the eighteenth year of the Yongle period). It underwent several renovations during the Qing Dynasty. - **Bell Tower**: Originally the central pavilion of the Wanning Temple during the Yuan Dynasty, it was rebuilt in 1420 (the eighteenth year of the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty). Later destroyed by fire, the existing structure was rebuilt in 1745 (the tenth year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty) using a unique fireproof, all-brick-and-stone design. 3. **Architectural Features** - **Drum Tower**: Standing 46.7 meters tall, it features a double-eaved hip-and-gable roof. It originally housed 25 drums (only a damaged main drum remains, with replicas on display). - **Bell Tower**: Standing 47.9 meters tall, it has black glazed tiles with green trim. Inside hangs the massive "Yongle Bell," a bronze bell cast during the Yongle period, weighing approximately 63 tons. Its sound could travel for miles. 4. **Function and Culture** - In ancient times, the drum and bell were used to announce the time to the entire city (drum beats during the day, bell tolls at night). - Now a museum, it exhibits ancient timekeeping instruments, the history of Beijing, and the evolution of the Drum and Bell Towers. - Drumming performances are held regularly at the Drum Tower (check the schedule in advance). 5. **Visitor Information** - **Tickets**: 30 RMB per person for a combined ticket (Bell Tower + Drum Tower), or 20 RMB for each individually. - **Opening Hours**: Peak season (April-October): 9:00-17:30; Off-season (November-March): 9:30-16:30 (closed on Mondays). - **Climbing the Towers**: The Drum Tower requires climbing 69 steps, while the Bell Tower has steeper stairs (75 steps). Please exercise caution. --- ### **Visiting Tips** - **Panoramic Views**: The second floor of the Drum Tower offers stunning views of old Beijing's hutongs and the central axis. - **Nearby Attractions**: Located near Shichahai, Yan Dai Xie Street, and Nanluoguxiang, these attractions can be easily combined into a single itinerary. - **Cultural Experience**: We recommend watching the drum performance to experience the ancient timekeeping tradition. --- ### **Interesting Facts** - The "Yongle Bell" in the Bell Tower is not the same as the "Yongle Bell" in the Big Bell Temple in Beijing. The latter is larger (46.5 tons). - The Drum Tower gained popularity among younger generations after being featured in films like *Farewell My Concubine* and *Mr. Six*.