---
node: spot_xian_bell_tower_of_xi_an
type: spot
slug: bell_tower_of_xi_an
destination: dest_xian
title: "Bell Tower of Xi'an"
lead: "The Bell Tower stands at the crossing of Xi'an's two main streets, a triple-eaved timber tower on a brick platform built in 1384. Its bell once opened the city gates at dawn."
published: 2026-08-12
updated: 2026-08-12
image_file: spot_xian_bell_tower_of_xi_an.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Xi%27an_bell_tower.jpg"
image_author: "This image was produced by me, David Castor (user:dcastor). The pictures I submit to the Wikipedia Project are released to the public domain. This gives you the right to use them in any way you like, without any kind of notification. This said, I would still appreciate to be mentioned as the originator whenever you think it complies well with your use of the picture. A message to me  about how it has been used would also be welcome. You are obviously not required to respond to these wishes of mine, just in a friendly manner encouraged to. (All my photos are placed in Category:Images by David Castor or a subcategory thereof.)"
image_license: "Public domain"
---

## Overview

The tower was moved to its present position in 1582 when the city grid shifted, and it now sits on a roundabout reached by underpass. Thirty-six metres high, it is the largest and best preserved bell tower in China. Its companion, the Drum Tower, stands 200 metres northwest and closed the day as the bell opened it.

## Highlights

A combined ticket covers both towers and is the sensible buy. Short bell and drum performances run several times a day on the upper floors. Behind the Drum Tower the Muslim Quarter begins, which is where most visitors go next and where Xi'an eats.