Explore the Bell and Drum Towers in Xi’an with this comprehensive one-stop tour guide designed for maximum enjoyment and minimal effort. From easy transportation options to the perfect itinerary, discover how to efficiently visit these iconic landmarks while capturing stunning photos. Enjoy local flavors at Huimin Street and take in breathtaking views from Kaiming Mall’s observation deck as you experience the beauty of Xi’an both day and night. This guide is your essential resource for making the most of your visit!
Transportation Options:
- Metro: Take Line 2 to Bell Tower Station (钟楼站), Exit B.
- Walking: After visiting Yongning Gate (永宁门) and Xiangzi Temple Street (湘子庙街), navigate your way to the Bell and Drum Towers Square (钟鼓楼广场).
- Taxi: Simply request to be dropped off at Bell and Drum Towers Square (钟鼓楼广场).
Touring Route: To capture both the daytime and nighttime views of the Bell and Drum Towers, we’ll explore the surrounding areas before returning to the towers. Begin your journey between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM; this timing avoids the glaring afternoon sun and allows you to enjoy the evening illumination.
- Start at the Bell and Drum Towers Square : Walk along the outer ring road toward the west, crossing the sunken plaza to reach the Drum Tower.
- Drum Tower Visit: Spend some time at the Drum Tower for stunning views and photographs.
- Head to Huimin Street: After exploring the Drum Tower, make your way to Huimin Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.
- Visit Zipeiji (子佩集) and Gaojia Courtyard (高家大院): Explore these traditional areas, full of local charm.
- Drum Tower Intangible Cultural Heritage Corridor: Check out this cultural corridor for unique experiences.
- Return to the Bell Tower: Navigate back to the southwest side of the Bell Tower, enjoying the sights along the way.
- Kaiming Mall (开元商城): Head to the southeast side of the mall for shopping and dining.
- View from Kaiming Mall’s 5th Floor Observation Deck : Enjoy the sunset views of the towers.
Lighting Times: The towers are beautifully illuminated starting at 6:30 PM during September, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Tickets:
- Bell Tower (钟楼): 30 RMB per person (entry optional; you can capture photos from across the street).
- Drum Tower (鼓楼): 30 RMB per person (entry includes views of the Bell Tower from above).
- Huimin Street (回民街): Free to explore; the Gaojia Courtyard (高家大院) has an entry fee of 30 RMB, which includes a shadow puppet show.
Daytime Photo Spots: Capture stunning photos with the following viewpoints:
- Southeast Side of the Outer Ring Road: From the 1st and 2nd floors of Kaiming Plaza (开元广场).
- Southwest Side: A symmetrical angle from the outer ring road’s railings.
- Northwest Side: Near the Bell and Drum Towers Square (钟鼓楼广场) railings.
- Drum Tower: Capture the Bell Tower from the windows of the Drum Tower.
- Other Notable Spots:
- The 24 Solar Terms Drum (二十四节气鼓) at the Drum Tower.
- The bustling atmosphere of Huimin Street (回民街).
- The bronze dragon installation at Zipeiji (子佩集).
- The central axis view from Yongning Gate (永宁门).
- The Longxi Cultural Corridor (非遗文化长廊) featuring the Chang’an landmark inscription.
- The Drum Tower’s eaves and symmetrical angles for unique shots.