Tourism GuideGulou and Drum Tower Area
The historic heart of old Beijing where timekeeping traditions meet vibrant local life
Key Information
Construction Period
Drum Tower: 1272 (Yuan Dynasty), Bell Tower: 1420 (Ming Dynasty)
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese wooden structure with double-eaved hip roof
Height
Drum Tower: 46.7 meters, Bell Tower: 47.9 meters
Cultural Significance
UNESCO World Heritage Site component of Beijing's Central Axis
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October)
Nearest Metro Station
Gulou Dajie Station (Line 8)
Special Events
Traditional drum performances every hour, seasonal festivals
Accessibility
Limited accessibility due to steep stairs in towers
Photography Tips
Best light in morning, night illumination spectacular
Local Specialties
Beijing yogurt, jianbing, lamb skewers, traditional pastries
The Gulou and Drum Tower Area represents the authentic soul of old Beijing, where imperial timekeeping traditions blend seamlessly with vibrant local life. Located along the central north-south axis of ancient Beijing, this area served as the official timekeeping center of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Drum Tower (Gulou) and Bell Tower (Zhonglou) stand as magnificent architectural twins that once regulated the daily rhythms of the imperial capital. Today, this neighborhood preserves the traditional hutong alleyways, courtyard houses (siheyuan), and authentic Beijing lifestyle that has largely disappeared from other parts of the modern city. The area offers a living museum experience where visitors can witness traditional crafts, sample authentic local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of Beijing residents who have lived here for generations.
Things to Do
- Climb the Drum Tower to witness traditional drum performances and panoramic views of Beijing
- Explore the intricate network of traditional hutong alleyways by rickshaw or on foot
- Visit the Bell Tower to see the massive ancient bronze bell and learn about imperial timekeeping
- Sample authentic Beijing street food at the nearby Houhai and Shichahai food stalls
- Experience traditional tea ceremonies in one of the many teahouses scattered throughout the hutongs
- Visit local artisan workshops to see traditional crafts like paper cutting and kite making
- Take a boat ride on Houhai Lake during summer or ice skate during winter
- Attend a traditional Chinese opera or storytelling performance at a local theater
- Shop for unique souvenirs at the Yandai Xiejie (Tobacco Pipe Lean Street) market
- Photograph the stunning architecture of the Drum Tower illuminated at night