Bell Tower of Beijing
Beijing's ancient timekeepers, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the city's heart.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Bell Tower of Beijing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Beijing's ancient timekeepers, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the city's heart.
"This felt more authentic than any museum!"
🎯 Climb the Bell Tower
Ascend the Bell Tower for stunning city views and a glimpse into Beijing's past. :arrow_up:
🥁 Experience the Drum Show
Don't miss the captivating drum performance at the Drum Tower! :musical_score:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bell Tower Ascent
Bell Tower
Climb to the top for panoramic views of Beijing's ancient cityscape and surrounding hutongs.
Drum Tower Performance
Drum Tower
Witness a traditional drum performance, a powerful echo of the towers' historical role.
Hutong Exploration
Surrounding Gulou area
Wander through the narrow hutong lanes, experiencing authentic Beijing life and local charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Towers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Bell Tower
Ascend the Bell Tower for stunning city views and a glimpse into Beijing's past. :arrow_up:
🥁 Experience the Drum Show
Don't miss the captivating drum performance at the Drum Tower!
🚶 Explore the Hutongs
Get lost in the charming hutong alleys surrounding the towers for authentic local life. :housewithgarden:
🚲 Cycle Houhai Lake
Rent a bike and cycle around Houhai Lake for scenic views of the towers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Bell Tower
Ascend the Bell Tower for stunning city views and a glimpse into Beijing's past. :arrow_up:
🥁 Experience the Drum Show
Don't miss the captivating drum performance at the Drum Tower!
🚶 Explore the Hutongs
Get lost in the charming hutong alleys surrounding the towers for authentic local life. :housewithgarden:
🚲 Cycle Houhai Lake
Rent a bike and cycle around Houhai Lake for scenic views of the towers.
🕰️ Understand the History
These towers were Beijing's timekeepers for centuries! +1 :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bell and Drum Towers for their historical significance and the authentic feel of the surrounding hutongs, often describing it as a more genuine experience than typical museums. While the climb can be tiring, the panoramic views and the cultural immersion make it a highly recommended stop in Beijing. Some find the ticket prices for both towers add up, but most agree it's worth it for the historical insight.
"The vibrant vermillion walls of the Drum and Tower are a magnet for selfies and professional photo shoot. For a cost CNY15 per person, visitors can explore the historic Drum and Bell Tower and learnt about the intricate system used for timekeeping since the Yuan Dynasty. The flights to the top of both the Tower is quite narrow and steep, but with great views of central Beijing as reward. At the top of the Drum Tower, the advertised 15 minutes drum performance turned out to be less than 2 minutes of perfunctory drumming."
Ming
"We took the subway and got out at the Shichahai station which was very near the towers. Only bought tickets for the red Drum Tower to see the view over the old NanluoguXiang and Shichahai areas right up to Jingshan Park. Of course, the modern CBD and Olympic Tower could be seen too in the distance. It was good to see the various timekeeping instruments, the original drum, the short drum-beating performance and the show displaying the central axis of Beijing. Very popular and crowded area in the vicinity, especially during weekends and public holidays. A number of Qing Zhen or halal eating places there."
Siew Meng Tham
"Nice place in Beijing, lots of history and lively area. Make sure to go on the stairs in the bell owner and watch the view."
Roy Norge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bell and Drum Towers are easily accessible by subway. Take Line 2 or Line 8 to Gulou Dajie Station (Drum Tower Street Station). From there, it's a short walk to the towers. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, they are prominent landmarks in the Gulou area and are well-signposted. You'll likely see them as you approach the vicinity.
Depending on your starting point, it might be a longer walk. However, they are relatively central and can be reached from areas like Houhai Lake or Nanluoguxiang by foot or a short bike ride.
The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are located very close to each other, just a short walk apart. You can easily walk between them.
Parking can be challenging in this historic area. It's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you typically need to purchase separate tickets to enter and climb both the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower.
Opening hours can vary slightly, but generally, they are open from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. It's advisable to check the latest hours before your visit.
Ticket prices are usually quite affordable, with separate fees for each tower. Expect to pay a modest amount for admission.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance might be an option, especially during peak tourist seasons, to save time.
Sometimes combined tickets are available, offering a slight discount. Inquire at the ticket counter for the best options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can climb to the top of each tower for historical insights and city views. The Drum Tower often features a traditional drum performance.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore both towers and enjoy the surrounding area. If you plan to wander the hutongs, allocate more time.
While official guided tours might be limited, the historical significance is palpable. Many visitors find exploring independently or with a local guide enriching.
From the Bell Tower, you get a great vantage point over the hutongs and the surrounding urban landscape.
Inside, you'll find historical exhibits and information about the towers' construction and function as Beijing's ancient timekeepers.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the Bell Tower offers fantastic panoramic shots. The surrounding hutongs also provide charming, photogenic scenes.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of any specific restrictions or areas where flash might be prohibited.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical landmarks in Beijing. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
Capture the contrast between the ancient architecture and modern Beijing skyline, or focus on the details of the towers' construction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The surrounding hutongs provide a safe and interesting environment for kids to explore, offering a glimpse into a different way of life. Consider renting a family-friendly bike to cycle around Houhai Lake for a fun and scenic activity. Tips for families: Bring snacks and water, as options inside the towers are limited. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing. The historical context can be made more engaging for kids by telling stories about ancient Beijing and the towers' role as timekeepers.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Pack your own water bottle. Look for local noodle shops or dumpling houses for filling and affordable meals. Enjoy the free exploration of the hutongs and the atmosphere around Houhai Lake.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The intricate details of the towers' construction and the vibrant life within the hutongs provide endless subjects for creative shots. Photography tips: Visit during weekdays and off-peak hours to avoid crowds and get cleaner shots. Experiment with different angles, capturing the contrast between the ancient structures and the modern city skyline. The drum performance at the Drum Tower can also make for dynamic action shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Beijing's Past: The Bell and Drum Towers
Today, the towers are not just historical relics but vibrant cultural landmarks. Visitors can ascend both structures to gain a deeper appreciation for their scale and historical significance. The climb offers panoramic views of the surrounding hutongs (traditional alleyway neighborhoods) and the sprawling city beyond.
The Drum Tower often hosts a traditional drum performance, a powerful auditory experience that echoes the towers' original purpose. The experience is often described by visitors as more authentic and engaging than a typical museum visit, providing a real sense of history. Exploring the area around the Bell and Drum Towers is an essential part of the experience. The Gulou area is a gateway to some of Beijing's most well-preserved hutongs. Wandering through these narrow lanes, you can observe local life, discover hidden courtyards, and find charming shops and eateries.
It's a chance to step back in time and witness the enduring spirit of the city. Navigating the Gulou Area: Beyond the Towers
Adjacent to the Gulou area is Houhai Lake, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Renting a bicycle and cycling around the lake offers picturesque views of the water, the surrounding traditional architecture, and, of course, the iconic Bell and Drum Towers in the distance.
The lakeside is dotted with cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a lively place to relax and soak in the atmosphere, especially in the evenings. For those interested in unique local activities, you might even spot locals playing jianzi (a traditional shuttlecock game) in the parks nearby. When planning your visit, consider combining the Bell and Drum Towers with a stroll down Nanluoguxiang, a famous hutong known for its trendy shops, cafes, and snack stalls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit