Drum & Bell Tower

The Bell & Drum Towers told the people of Beijing what the time was during the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties (1271-1911). Like the Church bells that ring in towns all over the West, the Bell and Drum Towers told the people what time it was (Day or Night) at a time when watches, cell phones and other modern devices were not available.

Bell Tower

The Bell Tower (the grey one) is more than 140 feet high (48 meters) and also is two stories. The two story tower has arches on all sides and a green tile roof. The largest bell in all of China hangs in the middle of the second floor. It is said to ring with a soft ring that sounds like the Chinese word for shoe. Legend has it that the Bell makers daughter fell into Bell's furnace before it was cast. All the maker could grab of his daughter was her shoe, hence the sound. The Bell rang at set times during the day in conjunction with the drums and alone at night. This tower was originally built in the 1700's after the earlier structure was destroyed by fire.

Drum Tower

The Drum Tower was initially built in 1272 during the Yuan Dynasty and has been rebuilt many times since. The two-story structure is also about 140 feet high (47 meters). On its second floor there were originally 25 drums. Now, only the big drum in the center is left. The smaller drums were destroyed by Western invaders during the Boxer Rebellion. Drums were beaten at regular intervals throughout the day in alternating fast and slow beats.

The Drum & Bell Towers are not exciting visits these days except for those obsessed by time or hoping to find a Chinese Quasimodo. Yet the view from the top is great on a clear day. Also those in a contemplative mood might enjoy pondering a world before watches and cell phones. Stop by one of the little shops between the two towers and slow down. Watch as all the tourists scurry by checking their cell phones to chat, sms, and of course find the time. What a different world it was, when these towers and not our own gadgets kept the time!

The area around the towers are among the most scenic in Beijing. The area behind the towers to the subway station is full of great hutongs. Past the Bell Tower is Yandai Xijie, a small tourist street that sells knick knacks and it leads to the HouHai lake district. Check out the hutong listing for more on the area.