Beijing Drum & Bell Towers: Hear the City’s Pulse
When you visit Beijing Drum & Bell Towers, you step into 700 years of Beijing’s living history. These towers, also called “Gulou and Zhonglou,” stand at the north end of the city’s central axis. As you walk in, you see red walls, gray roofs, and feel time echoing through Beijing heritage towers.
1. The 700-Year Echo: Imperial Timekeeping Center
The Beijing Drum Tower was built in 1272 during the Yuan dynasty. Over three dynasties (Yuan, Ming, Qing), it served as the city’s timekeeping hub.
In old Beijing, people used “morning bell, evening drum” to control daily routines. Every night at “xu” hour (7-9 pm), drums were struck. At “yin” hour (3-5 am), the bell rang.
Each time was 108 beats, divided into three parts: “fast 18, slow 18, steady 18.” That system tied time and nature together.
2. Architectural Marvel: Largest Drum & Bell Towers in China
In all of China, the Drum & Bell Towers in Beijing are among the grandest time towers. The Drum Tower rises about 46.7 m and has three eaves, built in brick and wood. You’ll see 25 replica drums inside.
The Bell Tower is around 47.9 m high, built with brick and stone. In Qing dynasty, it was rebuilt using beamless arch structures to reduce fire risk. Inside hangs a massive copper bell weighing 63 tons. Its sound once carried far across Beijing.
3. Symbol of Time & Imperial Authority
These two towers are more than just Beijing historic landmarks — they represent authority and cosmic order. The Drum Tower was once named Qizhenglou (“Seven Regulators Tower”) to reflect the ancient idea of governing by the laws of heaven.
Chinese legend also tells of “Casting Bell Lady,” giving the towers a human, touching story. Thus, these towers connect ancient timekeeping in Beijing with culture and myth.
4. Unique Position: North End of the Central Axis
Few cities have bell and drum towers lined front-to-back like Beijing. These towers occupy the extreme north of the central axis.
In the Yuan capital layout, they sat near “rear market” behind the Forbidden City. Today, that area remains lively, full of Beijing old city towers and local life.
5. Seasonal Views: Always a Good Time to Visit
Beijing has four clear seasons.
- Spring (Apr–May): Cool, fresh, blossoming.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot midday, but mornings and evenings are pleasant.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Crisp air, best scenic time.
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Cold but calm and less crowded.
Sunrise or sunset bring magical light on the towers; at night, the towers glow in golden light — perfect for photos.
6. Interactive Experience: More Than Just Sightseeing
When you visit the towers:
- Drum performances happen daily (3-4 shows morning & afternoon) — loud and immersive.
- Climb the towers for panoramic views: you’ll see the Forbidden City, Jingshan, and Shichahai.
- On Chinese festivals (like Lunar New Year), they revive the bell and drum rituals.
- Walk the hutongs around — it’s a window into old Beijing life and Beijing heritage towers context.
7. Green Setting & Authentic Atmosphere
Though in the center, the towers are surrounded by old trees, narrow alleys, and gray-tiled Beijing heritage towers. Pigeons flutter, shade filters down, and life feels gentle.
This area has been a commercial spot since Yuan times. Even now, local shops and old brands line the streets, continuing the long tradition.
8. Location & How to Reach
The towers sit at Di’anmen North Street, in Beijing’s Dongcheng District.
- Subway: Take Line 8 or Line 2 to “Gulou Dajie” station.
- Bus / Taxi / Ride-hailing: Many routes pass by.
- From the Forbidden City’s north gate, you can walk in 20–30 minutes through hutongs.
9. Smart Visiting Tips
Start with the Drum Tower, catch a drum show, then go to the Bell Tower for the massive bell and city views.
Allow 2–3 hours for a relaxed walk. Combine with nearby spots like Shichahai, Nanluoguxiang, and Yandaixie Street.
10. Crowd & Best Time
On weekdays, crowds are light. Weekends and holidays are busy, especially between 10 am and 3 pm.
Best time: early morning or late afternoon — few people, great light.
11. Tours & Interpretation
There are bilingual signs around. You can rent an audio guide to dig into stories and architecture.
During drum shows, guides usually give short talks on time culture and history.
12. Tickets & Prices
- Drum Tower only: ~ 20 RMB
- Combined Drum + Bell Towers: ~ 30 RMB
- Students: usually half price
You can buy on site or in advance via online platforms.
13. Where to Eat Nearby
East side of Drum Tower has local classics like “Yao Ji Chao Gan.” Around Nanluoguxiang and Yandaixie, cafés and restaurants offer a wide choice.
14. Opening Hours
Open daily 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30).
(Note: hours may change during holidays — check ahead.)
