Xian Bell Tower is one of the largest and most well preserved bell towers in China. It was first built in the 17th year of the Ming Hongwu era (1384 AD). Located in the center of Xi'an, this bell tower is one of the landmarks of the ancient city of Xi'an. It radiates four main streets, east, south, west, and north, and connects with the four city gates of Xi'an City Wall, east, south, west, and north.
The Bell Tower in Xi'an was originally located on Guangji Street to the west. As the city center moved eastward, in the tenth year of the Wanli reign of Emperor Shenzong of the Ming Dynasty (1582), the Bell Tower was relocated to the east of the Drum Tower, which is the current location.
The bell tower is typical of the architectural art style of the Ming Dynasty. The lower part is a square base of brick structure, and the top is a triple four sided cusp structure, covered with dark green glazed tiles. The cusp is wrapped with real gold and platinum.
There are approximately 6 meter high gateways in the center of each of the four sides of the base, with interconnected gateways. In the past, it was a passage where four main streets, east, south, west, and north, intersected. People and vehicles passed through the gateways. Now, the gateways are closed. Surrounded by road turntables, there are underground passages for people to pass through.
The entrance to the Bell Tower is located in this underground passage, with stairs for spiral climbing. There is a replica of the "Jingyun Bell" inside the clock tower. The original was cast in the second year of Jingyun reign of Emperor Ruizong of Tang Dynasty (711 AD) and is now collected in the Xi'an Beilin Museum.
Standing on the clock tower, you can see four main streets extending from the tower : east, south, west, and north. Surrounding the bell tower, it is the bustling commercial district of Xi'an. By the way, you can also see the drum tower which is not far away from the bell tower.
Tourists can also enjoy a wonderful performance of visiting ancient times while visiting the bell tower. There are 6 performances per day. Between the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, it is the Bell and Drum Tower Square, with a music fountain.
Travel Tips
Address: Intersection of Four Streets in Beilin District, Xi'an City
Phone: 029-87276420
Opening hours: 08:30-18:00 throughout the year
Ticket: CNY30