The Drum Tower (Gulou) and Bell Tower (Zhonglou) were Beijing's official timekeepers for over six centuries, marking the hours from the Yuan dynasty (1272) until 1924. The current Drum Tower was rebuilt in 1420 and houses 24 large drums (only one original survives, dented and torn); the Bell Tower behind it was rebuilt in 1747 and holds a 63-tonne bronze bell. Both can be climbed via steep staircases (~70 steps each) for 360° views over the surrounding hutongs — the best place to see the gray-tile rooftop sea of old Beijing. Drum-beating demonstrations happen hourly. Located at the northern end of Beijing's historic central axis, they pair perfectly with a Shichahai (10 min walk south) or Nanluoguxiang (5 min walk east) visit. The square between the two towers is a local gathering spot — kite flying, hacky sack, music.

Address

9 Zhonglouwan Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing

东城区钟楼湾胡同临字9号

Highlights

Drum-Beating Demonstration (击鼓表演)Hourly — 5 minutes long; the drummers wear Qing-era robes
63-Tonne Bronze Bell (大铜钟)Bell Tower's 1747 bell, said to be audible 20 km away when struck
Rooftop Hutong ViewClimb to the top for the best hutong sea panorama in Beijing
Northern End of Central AxisSymbolic terminus of the Forbidden City's north-south spine
Combine with Shichahai/Nanluoguxiang5-10 min walks; classic old-Beijing afternoon route