Bell–Drum Tower Square
An iconic Ming Dynasty bell tower at the historic heart of Xi'an, offering stunning city vistas and a magical illuminated spectacle at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical glow and city lights
Bell–Drum Tower Square
Best Time
Magical glow and city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic Ming Dynasty bell tower at the historic heart of Xi'an, offering stunning city vistas and a magical illuminated spectacle at night.
"It truly comes alive at night when it’s lit up—grand, majestic, and impossible to miss."
✨ Evening Illumination
Visit at night to see the tower beautifully lit up. It's a truly magical experience!
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Consider buying a joint ticket for the Bell and Drum Towers for convenience and value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Illuminated Grandeur
Central Xi'an
Witness the tower glow at night, a majestic sight against the city skyline. Absolutely loved it!
Panoramic City Vistas
Upper levels of the tower
Climb to the top for a 360-degree view of the bustling city and surrounding architecture.
Ming Dynasty Architecture
Tower interior and exterior
Admire the beautifully preserved ancient architecture, a symbol of Xi'an's rich past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Central Location, Big Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Evening Illumination
Visit at night to see the tower beautifully lit up. It's a truly magical experience!
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Consider buying a joint ticket for the Bell and Drum Towers for convenience and value.
Xi’an (Bell Tower, Drum Tower, City Wall, Shaanxi Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Small Wild Goose Pagoda
📸 Sunset Photography
Late afternoon offers the best light for capturing stunning photos of the tower and city.
📍 Central Landmark
You'll likely pass by this iconic spot. It's a great place to soak in the city's vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Evening Illumination
Visit at night to see the tower beautifully lit up. It's a truly magical experience!
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Consider buying a joint ticket for the Bell and Drum Towers for convenience and value.
📸 Sunset Photography
Late afternoon offers the best light for capturing stunning photos of the tower and city.
📍 Central Landmark
You'll likely pass by this iconic spot. It's a great place to soak in the city's vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bell Tower's stunning beauty, particularly when illuminated at night, and the panoramic city views from its upper levels. While some find the interior exhibits less substantial, the tower's iconic status and central location make it a must-see landmark in Xi'an, especially when combined with the Drum Tower.
"The Bell Tower of Xi’an stands at the historic center of the city and is one of the best-preserved ancient bell towers in China. Originally built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty, it once served to mark time and warn of danger. Today, it's a proud symbol of Xi’an’s rich past and a striking architectural gem amid the modern cityscape.
Worth a visit, especially if you’re already exploring central Xi’an. While it’s not a long stop, the Bell Tower is a beautifully preserved piece of history with great views and architectural charm. Come for the skyline, stay for the ambience—and don’t miss it at night when it’s glowing in lights."
Andreas Nielsen
"A beautiful monument right in the heart of the city. It truly comes alive at night when it’s lit up—grand, majestic, and impossible to miss. Crowds gather from all angles to snap photos, and it’s easy to see why. Absolutely loved it!"
Pi Dog
"The largest round about inside old Xian city and the bell tower is in the center of it. Iconic landmark that you cannot missed. Bought the tickets online for both bell and drum tower on Ctrip together. The current location is not the historic location. Its past location is much nearer to drum tower.
Not much to see but as tourist just visit once is enough. Btw, night time it is more beautiful."
Adrick Loh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bell-Drum Tower Square is located in the absolute center of Xi'an, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by metro (Line 2 to Zhonglou Station) or by numerous bus routes that stop nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, the Bell Tower is very central. It's a short walk from the Drum Tower and a moderate walk or short bus/metro ride to the Xi'an City Wall. Many visitors find it a convenient hub for exploring the historic city center.
The square itself is a large roundabout. You can access the Bell Tower by pedestrian underpasses. Be mindful of traffic when crossing streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but a combined ticket for both the Bell Tower and Drum Tower is often available and recommended. It's advisable to check current prices and consider purchasing online in advance for potential discounts.
The Bell Tower is typically open during daylight hours and into the evening, especially to see the illuminations. It's best to confirm the exact hours for your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Yes, tickets are generally available for purchase at the site. However, buying online through platforms like Ctrip might offer better prices or convenience.
The square surrounding the Bell Tower is a public space and free to access. The entrance fee applies only if you wish to climb the tower and explore its interior exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside the Bell Tower, you'll find historical displays detailing its construction and function, including the original bell. The main draw for many is climbing to the upper levels for panoramic views of Xi'an.
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes at the Bell Tower, depending on how long they linger for photos and to enjoy the views. It's often combined with a visit to the Drum Tower.
Children can enjoy climbing the stairs and the views from the top. The historical exhibits might be more engaging for older children or those with an interest in history.
For photography, late afternoon around sunset offers beautiful lighting. However, the tower is also stunning when illuminated at night, attracting crowds for its glowing spectacle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Bell-Drum Tower Square is bustling with restaurants, street food vendors, and snack stalls. You can find a wide variety of local Xi'an cuisine and international options.
Look for Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with flatbread), and various skewers. The area is a great place to sample authentic Shaanxi flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the surrounding streets looking up at the tower, especially at night when it's lit. The upper levels of the tower also provide excellent vantage points for cityscapes.
Crowds can gather, especially in the evenings. Be patient and try to find unique angles. Early mornings or late afternoons can be less crowded for clearer shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for stairs, as elevators are not typically available. The surrounding square can be busy, so keeping a close eye on children is important. Exploring the nearby food stalls for local snacks can also be a hit with younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Eating at the numerous local eateries and street food vendors surrounding the square is a budget-friendly way to sample Xi'an's cuisine. Walking or using public transport like the metro is also cost-effective for reaching the central location.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Climbing to the top provides opportunities for cityscape photography, capturing the urban sprawl and the intricate details of surrounding buildings. Be prepared for crowds in the evenings, which can add a dynamic element to your shots but may require patience for the perfect composition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the Bell Tower is more than just a historical monument; it's a vibrant part of the modern cityscape. Visitors can ascend the tower to explore its interior, which houses exhibits detailing its history and the evolution of Xi'an. The climb rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding urban landscape, offering a unique perspective on the city's blend of ancient history and modern development.
Many travelers recommend visiting the Bell Tower in the evening, when it is dramatically illuminated. This transformation turns the already impressive structure into a glowing beacon, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The surrounding square often buzzes with activity, with locals and tourists alike gathering to admire the spectacle. It's a moment where the past and present of Xi'an converge beautifully.
Navigating the Central Hub
Getting to the square is straightforward. It's directly accessible via Metro Line 2 at the Zhonglou (Bell Tower) station, making it a convenient stop for most visitors. Numerous bus lines also converge here, and taxis are plentiful. The area is a major transportation hub, so expect a lively atmosphere with constant movement.
While the square itself is a public space, climbing the Bell Tower requires an entrance fee. Many visitors opt for a combined ticket that grants access to both the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, offering a more comprehensive historical experience and better value. This is a common recommendation from travelers looking to maximize their visit.
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