Drum Tower

Overview

The Drum Tower is a 47-meter Ming-era timber-and-brick tower that once served as the city's official timekeeper, with 25 massive drums beaten at precise intervals to mark the hours for the citizens of imperial Beijing.

Highlights

• Drum Performances: Live demonstrations of traditional drumming take place throughout the day inside the tower, echoing the ancient timekeeping rituals.
• Panoramic Views: The top-floor balcony offers sweeping views over the surrounding hutong neighborhoods and north along the central axis to the Bell Tower.
• Steep Staircase: The original 69-step staircase is remarkably steep, giving a sense of the tower's imposing scale.

History

Originally built in 1272 during the Yuan dynasty under Kublai Khan, the current structure dates to a 1420 Ming-era rebuild. The 25 drums were beaten 13 times each evening to mark the night watches until imperial timekeeping ended in 1924.

Visitor Tips

• Combined Ticket: A joint ticket covers both the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower just 100 meters to the north.
• Hutong Views: The tower sits at the heart of Beijing's best-preserved hutong neighborhoods, perfect for combining with a walking tour.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.