Bell and Drum Tower Square
Beilin, Xian, Shaanxi, 710007
Two of Xian’s most iconic structures are the Bell and Drum Towers, and the square in between is a popular spot for mingling, from early morning exercise to evening people-watching. It’s possible to go inside the towers, learning all the layers of history they’ve seen since they were built in the Ming Dynasty. There are many places to eat and drink near this area, especially the Muslim Quarter, for a roast leg of lamb.
The basics
Visitors to the Bell and Drum Tower Square can either go solo or join a group. Book a tour with a licensed guide if you want to make the most of your time and learn all the facts and figures about the towers. If you’re more in the mood for casual exploration, you might want to book a private guide or explore independently. Organized tours often combine the other attractions, like a visit to the Terra Cotta Warriors.
Things to know before you go
Mind your belongings. Xian is notorious for its pickpockets, and this area is known for people getting their things lifted. Be careful, and keep valuables in check.
Make sure you wear your walking shoes since there’s a lot of ground to cover both within the square and beyond, which you’ll inevitably want to explore.
Head to the square early in the morning to join the older folks doing tai chi or ballroom dancing to get their blood flowing.
How to get there
In Xian, finding the Bell and Drum Tower Square within the city walls is not hard. Xian is a popular destination for foreigners and locals alike, and these top attractions are well-marked. Taxis are cheap and easy, so hail one from your hotel or the train station and easily find the square.
When to get there
Book your Xian spring or fall trip for the best weather. Winters get pretty chilly, and summers are hot and humid—neither of which makes for comfortable sightseeing weather. Remember that the first weeks of May and October are national holidays, so the country is off work and school, and things get busy.
Ride the wall
Check out the city from atop the ancient city walls and have a little adventure at the same time. Head over to the city walls, head to the top, and rent a bike. It’s a bit of a bumpy ride, but it can be a nice break from bus tours, group tours, and all the walking. When you’re done, head to one of the street vendors or restaurants for a “Chinese hamburger” with slow-roasted pulled pork.
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