Xi’an is one of China’s most historic cities and a must-visit destination for international travelers. While many visitors come for the Terracotta Warriors, the city center offers just as much charm and culture. At the very heart of Xi’an stands the Xi’an Bell Tower, a landmark that captures the spirit of the ancient capital.

This guide will walk you through the highlights of the Xi’an Bell Tower and help you discover the best places to visit in Xi’an, the most popular tourist attractions of Xi’an, and the top things to see and do around the city. Whether you're here for a short stop or a multi-day trip, this article will help you plan the perfect Xi’an experience.

Why Visit the Xi’an Bell Tower?

A Symbol of Xi’an’s Long History

Built during the early Ming Dynasty in 1384, the Xian Bell Tower served as a central structure used for timekeeping and city administration. Its large bronze bell was once rung to mark the hours, warn of danger, and regulate daily life in the old capital.

The tower is a living reminder of Xi’an’s importance as a cultural and political center for more than 13 dynasties. Standing at the crossing point of the four most important roads of ancient Chang’an, it literally and symbolically forms the center of Xi’an.

Remarkable Architecture

The Xi’an Bell Tower is one of the most well-preserved wooden and brick structures of its time. Built with traditional Chinese architectural techniques, the tower features:

A grand base made of toughened masonry
Elegant dark wooden beams
A beautifully curved roof with green tiles
Delicate painted patterns and carvings
A large bronze bell displayed inside

The tower is stunning both during the day and at night when it is illuminated with warm golden lights, creating one of the most recognizable night views in Xi’an.

A Must-See Tourist Attraction of Xi’an

If you want to understand the tourist attractions of Xi’an, China, the Bell Tower is an essential part of the journey. It’s not only historically important but also gives you easy access to the most famous spots around the city center—making it the perfect place to begin your Xi’an adventure.

Things to See and Do at the Xi’an Bell Tower

Explore the Bell Tower Museum

Once inside, you can visit the Bell Tower Museum, which explains the tower’s history, construction, significance, and role in ancient time-keeping systems.

Highlights include:

Ancient bronze bells
Historical photos
Architectural models of the tower
Exhibits on traditional city planning

This museum helps travelers understand why the Bell Tower is one of the best places to visit in Xi’an, China. If you're interested in Chinese architecture or the city’s long history, this is a rewarding stop.

Admire the Panoramic Views of Xi’an

Climbing up to the top floor of the Xian Bell Tower is one of the best things to see and do in Xi’an. From the top platform, you can enjoy a rare panoramic view of the city center:

To the east: bustling Dongdajie
To the west: the path toward the Drum Tower
To the north: traditional residential neighborhoods
To the south: modern streets mixed with old city patterns

This is also one of the best photography spots in the city. Sunset and nighttime are particularly beautiful as the whole square lights up.

Experience Local Life at Bell Tower Square

The area around the tower is always full of energy. Whether it's day or night, Bell Tower Square gives you a taste of daily life in Xi’an.

You can:

Watch local musicians and street performers
Visit nearby shopping malls
Try local snacks
Photograph the tower from different angles
Enjoy the mix of modern and ancient scenery

The vibrant atmosphere around the Xian Bell Tower makes it one of the top answers to: What are some things to do in Xi’an?

Top Tourist Attractions Near the Xi’an Bell Tower

If you're exploring the center of Xi’an, it’s easy to combine the Bell Tower with nearby attractions. This area answers many questions travelers commonly ask: What are the tourist attractions of Xian, China? What are the best places to visit in Xi’an China?

Here are the top picks:

Drum Tower (Gulou)

Just a short walk from the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower is equally impressive. Similar in architecture but slightly larger, it once housed huge drums used for timekeeping at night.

The view from the Drum Tower rooftop is one of the most beautiful in Xi’an.

Muslim Quarter

The famous Muslim Quarter begins right next to the Drum Tower. It is one of the most popular things to do in Xi’an for foreign visitors.

Here you can find:

Street food
Traditional snacks
Handmade souvenirs
Historic mosques
Narrow alleys full of local life

This area is perfect for trying dishes like roujiamo (Chinese burger), lamb skewers, and pomegranate juice.

Xi’an City Wall

One of the best places to visit in Xi'an, China, the ancient Xi’an City Wall is the largest and most complete city wall remaining in China. You can rent a bike and ride along the top of the wall, enjoy views of the old city, or simply explore the gates and fortifications.

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

A symbol of ancient Buddhist culture, the pagoda is located in the south of the city. It is home to historical Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang.

Other recommended attractions

Shaanxi History Museum
Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Datang Everbright City
Huaqing Palace
Mount Huashan (if you have extra days)
The Terracotta Army (a must-visit for all travelers)

Practical Tips for Visiting the Xi’an Bell Tower

Opening Hours & Seasonal Notes

Standard opening hours: 08:30–21:30（May–October） 08:30–18:00（November–April）
Best months to visit:
- March–May: comfortable temperatures and clearer skies
- September–November: golden autumn scenery
Avoid:
- Chinese national holidays such as Golden Week (Oct 1–7)
- Weekends after 6 PM when Bell Tower Square becomes extremely crowded

Ticket Options Explained

Bell Tower Only
1. Good for travelers with limited time
2. Includes admission to the museum and observation deck
Bell Tower + Drum Tower Combo Ticket

Highly recommended because:

Drum Tower is only 3–5 minutes’ walk away
The two towers complement each other in history and architecture
You save time and money by purchasing both at once

Tips for Buying Tickets
1. Buy at the official ticket booth or official mini-program (Chinese apps may need staff help)
2. Avoid resellers at the square
3. Keep your ticket with you, as it may be checked twice

Best Time of Day to Visit

Morning (8:30–11:00)
- Best lighting for photos
- Fewer crowds
- Cooler weather in summer
Afternoon (14:00–17:00)
- Good for combining with nearby attractions
- You get a nice soft light for views from the top
Evening (18:30–21:30)
- Best time for photography — the tower's golden lights are beautiful
- Ideal for travelers who love nightlife
- Perfect time to enjoy Bell Tower Square, Drum Tower, and the Muslim Quarter together

If your schedule allows, visit twice: once in the day and once at night for the contrast.

How to Get There: Clear Directions

By Metro (Most Convenient for Foreign Travelers)
- Take Line 2 or Line 6
- Get off at Bell Tower Station
- Use Exit A or B1
- Follow signs to Bell Tower Square (3–5 minutes walking)
By Bus
- Over 10 bus lines stop at Bell Tower Station. Useful if your hotel is outside metro coverage.
By Taxi / Didi (Ride-hailing)
- Very affordable (usually around RMB 10–25 within city center)
- Tell the driver: “Zhōnglóu — 钟楼”
- Drivers can drop you off directly at the square entrance
From Xi’an Airport
- Airport shuttle to Xi’an Hotel (40–50 mins), then 10 mins walk
- Taxi: ~45 mins
- Airport metro line → transfer to Line 2 → Bell Tower Station

What to Bring

Water bottle (especially in summer)
Camera or smartphone (beautiful views both day and night)
Light jacket in spring/autumn
Comfortable shoes — nearby attractions require walking
Cashless payment is common, but bring some cash for small shops

Photography Tips

Best daytime shot: Northeast side of Bell Tower Square
Best night shot: Across the street from the south side (the main boulevard provides wide angle)
For aerial-style shots, go to nearby Bell Tower Hotel top floor café

Accessibility Notes

The square has wheelchair access
The interior of the tower requires stair climbing; no elevator
If mobility is an issue, spend more time enjoying the square views from the outside

Suggested Itineraries Including the Xi’an Bell Tower

Half-Day Itinerary: Classic Bell Tower Walking Route

Perfect for: Short layovers, first-time visitors, travelers with limited time

Start at Xian Bell Tower (1–1.5 hours)

Visit the museum
Explore the wooden structure
Take panoramic photos from the top

Walk to Drum Tower (10 minutes / 1 hour visit)

Explore drum exhibitions
Watch cultural performances (available most afternoons)
Enjoy a quieter rooftop view compared to Bell Tower

Wander Through Muslim Quarter (1–1.5 hours)

Suggested stops:
- Lamb skewers
- Roujiamo (Chinese burger)
- Persimmon cakes
- Pomegranate juice
- Great Mosque (optional detour)

This half-day route answers exactly what are some things to do in Xi’an within a short time.

One-Day Itinerary: Xi’an City Center Essentials

Perfect for: Travelers who want both cultural sites and local food

Morning (8:30–12:00)

Xian Bell Tower
Drum Tower
Walk along the Muslim Quarter alleys
Visit the Great Mosque for history and quiet atmosphere

Lunch (12:00–13:00)

Try these highly-rated spots:

Lao MiJia for noodles
Hanjia Liangpi for cold noodles
Yongxing Fang (a short taxi ride away) for more diverse traditional snacks

Afternoon (13:30–17:00)

Xi’an City Wall

Rent a bike at the South Gate
90–120 minutes to cycle the full loop
Enjoy views of old vs. modern Xi’an
Best for photographers and families

Evening (18:00–21:30)

Return to Bell Tower Square for night photography
Enjoy the lively atmosphere around Drum Tower
Optional: Small musical fountain show at the City Wall South Gate

This itinerary gives visitors a full picture of the best places to visit in Xi’an, China in one day.

Two-Day Itinerary: Full Xi’an Experience

Day 1: Bell Tower + City Center + Night Life

Morning

Xian Bell Tower
Drum Tower
Muslim Quarter food tasting
Great Mosque

Afternoon

Xi’an City Wall cycling or walking
Visit the South Gate Exhibition Hall
Optional: Go to Yongxingfang for traditional performances

Evening Choose one of the following:

Bell Tower night views
Watch the Drum Tower night light show
Explore Defu Lane (bars, cafés, live music)
Visit Datang Everbright City for Tang Dynasty atmosphere

Day 2: Terracotta Warriors + Pagodas + Cultural Shows

Morning (8:00–12:00)Terracotta Army

1 hour drive from city center
Spend 2–2.5 hours exploring the three pits
Recommended: hire an English-speaking guide at the entrance
Return to city around noon

Lunch (12:30–13:30) Eat near Dayanta (Big Wild Goose Pagoda):

Shaanxi noodles
Roujiamo
Dumplings

Afternoon (14:00–17:00)Big Wild Goose Pagoda + Da Ci’en Temple

Learn about Monk Xuanzang
Climb the pagoda for views
Explore the gardens

Evening (19:00–21:00) Choose one:

Tang Dynasty Music & Dance Show
Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain Show
Grand Tang Mall night walk

This two-day plan perfectly answers what are the best things to see and do in Xi’an, offering both ancient heritage and modern cultural experiences.

Three-Day Itinerary (Optional Upgrade)

Day 3: Nature + Hot Springs + Imperial History

Choose one of the following:

Mount Huashan (famous for hiking cliffs and views)
Huaqing Palace Hot Springs (Tang Dynasty royal gardens)
Shaanxi History Museum (free ticket but needs booking)

From cultural relics to modern nightlife, from delicious street food to world-famous historical sites, Xi’an is a city where ancient stories come to life around every corner. And it all begins right here—at the center of the city—at the Xian Bell Tower.

Xi’an Bell Tower: the Best Things to See and Do in Xi’an

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