Location & Transportation

Bell And Drum Tower Square sits right in the heart of Xi’an, at the crossroads of Beiyuanmen and West Street in Lianhu District. It’s super easy to reach—just hop off at Xi’an Metro Line 2 (Bell Tower Station) or take buses 6, 12, or 36. If you’re walking from the city’s main attractions, it’s only a 10-minute stroll from the Muslim Quarter. Fun fact: This square is almost as big as Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, covering 60,000 square meters!

Historical Vibes

Did you know? Bell And Drum Tower Square was once the home of the Shangshu Province—a fancy name for the Tang Dynasty’s top government office. Imagine officials hustling around here over 1,000 years ago! Today, the square still feels grand. On the east side, the Bell Tower (built in 1384) stands tall, while the Drum Tower on the west side is the biggest of its kind in China. Both towers are lit up at night, so they look like they’re straight out of a movie.

Must-See Spots

  • The Towers: Climb the Bell Tower for a bird’s-eye view of Xi’an. The Drum Tower has cool performances where actors play ancient drums—totally worth it!
  • Fountains & Lights: At night, the square comes alive with music fountains, colorful lights, and reflections dancing on the water. Bring your phone for epic photos!
  • Old-School Charm: North of the square, check out classic shops like Tong Sheng Xiang (dumplings) and De Fa Chang (hand-pulled noodles). These places have been around for decades.

Shopping & Food

Below the square, you’ll find Century Golden Flower Mall—perfect for souvenirs or a coffee break. But don’t miss the street food! Nearby, the Muslim Quarter serves up spicy lamb skewers, biang biang noodles, and sweet dates. Pro tip: The shops around Bell And Drum Tower Square close later than most in Xi’an, so it’s great for evening explorers.

Nighttime Magic

After sunset, this place turns into a glowing wonderland. The towers are illuminated, fountains shoot water into the air with beats, and crowds gather to watch. It’s like Disney World but with 600-year-old architecture. Bonus: On weekends, local dance groups sometimes perform under the lights—just hang around to catch a show!

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Evenings for the lights, but mornings are less crowded.
  • Photo Spots: Stand between the two towers for a classic shot, or snap the fountains with the towers in the background.
  • Avoid Rush: Weekends get packed, especially during holidays.

Bell And Drum Tower Square isn’t just a spot—it’s a time machine. You’ll leave with photos, full bellies, and a story about the old Tang government office!