Bell Tower of Xi'an Tower

The Bell Tower of Xi’an is a large wooden-and-brick tower in the city centre of Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China, built in 1384 during the Ming dynasty. It marks the historical centre of the city and traditionally housed the main bell used for time signals.

Visitors commonly view the tower’s timber-framed upper levels and the bell chamber, and climb to the viewing galleries for sights across the surrounding street grid and toward nearby historic districts. The building’s timber architecture and painted eaves are typical of Ming public structures and attract both architectural interest and skyline views.

Erected by Ming dynasty authorities in 1384, the tower served as both a timekeeper and a watch point for the walled city; it has been repaired and conserved while retaining its historic plan and decorative features. The bell and its fittings reflect the tower’s long use in civic signalling.

The tower stands in central Xi’an at the junction of the city’s principal radial streets, close to the old walled core and within walking distance of the Drum Tower and the Muslim Quarter.

• Height and position: Rises approximately 36 metres and occupies the historic geographical centre of Xi’an where the city’s main roads meet.
• Date of construction: Constructed in 1384 during the Ming dynasty to house the city bell and to mark the urban centre; the bell tower remained an important timekeeping and signalling building.

What to See#

• Bell chamber: The internal bell chamber contains the large bronze bell and the mechanisms used historically to sound time and alarms; the chamber is central to the building’s original function.
• Viewing platform: Open platform and viewing gallery near the top give views across the street grid of central Xi’an and toward nearby historical districts.
• Ground-level exhibits: Ground-level exhibition space displays models, inscriptions and information on the tower’s construction and role in the city’s timekeeping traditions.

The Bell Tower is in Xi’an’s city center near the Bell and Drum Tower Square and is reachable by several metro lines (including Line 2 at Zhonglou station). It’s within walking distance of the Muslim Quarter and other central attractions.

• Climb the tower shortly after opening to avoid the largest tour-group surges; the view is best in the morning when the sun is at the photographer's back.
• Combine the Bell Tower with a walk through the surrounding Muslim Quarter to taste local snacks and watch street musicians.
• Wear sturdy shoes - some interior stairs are steep and can be crowded at peak times.