Bell and Drum Towers

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Top 1% of attractions in Beijing
8 / 10

6 expert reviews

“Located on the central axis of Beijing, the Drum and Bell Towers once kept time for locals, signaling when the heavy gates of the city wall would shut for the night.”

– Afar Magazine

Fodor's Fodor's
"Kublai Khan built the first drum tower on this site in 1272. You can climb to the top of the present tower, which dates from the Ming Dynasty." Full review
Concierge Concierge
"Separated by a rectangular courtyard filled with trees, small cafés, and rickshaws, these two majestic towers are often overlooked by visitors."
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"This tower and its counterpart, the Drum Tower, kept Beijing people up to date on the official time through three dynasties. Drums beat out at night, while the bells rang out during the day." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
1 Star
"Once you've climbed the three floors and walked around the top level, you can enjoy a perfect 360° view of the rooftops of old Beijing."
U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report
11.0
"Once used as musical instruments and later as the official government time piece, the Bell and Drum Towers crown the charming Nanluoguxiang district. Amid the maze of alleys, you'll..." Full review