Xi'an Drum Tower

The Xi'an Drum Tower faces the bell tower and is one of the iconic buildings of the ancient city. The drum tower was first built in the 13th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1380). Climbing the drum tower, you can see a large drum 1.8 m high and 24 red drums engraved with the 24 solar terms, which are very impressive. The drum tower also exhibits furniture, porcelain, and calligraphy and paintings by Qi Baishi from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Xi'an Drum Tower is one of the largest drum towers in China. Its base is a tall rectangular platform with north-south passageways that are 6 m in both height and width. The tower on the platform has two stories, upper and lower, with a roof covered in green glazed tiles.

On the south side of Xi'an Drum Tower, there is a plaque inscribed with "Land of culture and military prowess," which, together with the plaque at Shanhaiguan, is hailed as "China's two great plaques." Unfortunately, it was destroyed during turbulent times, and what we see now is a replica. When visiting Xi'an Drum Tower, you can also enjoy the ancient-inspired "morning bell and evening drum" performance. Between the drum tower and the bell tower lies the bell and drum tower square, adorned with green grass and red flowers, featuring a uniquely designed musical fountain. The night view here is beautiful, perfect for photography. Behind the drum tower is the Muslim Quarter, home to numerous delicious foods.