How much is the Drum Tower?

The Drum Tower is about $4.20, and the combo with the Bell Tower is about $7. Verify the live price on site.

Is there a drum show at the Drum Tower?

Yes, drum performances run in the evening, often around 19:00 and 20:00. Times change by season, so check on arrival.

How do I get to the Drum Tower?

It sits by the Muslim Quarter, west of the Bell Tower. Take metro Line 2 to Bell Tower station, then walk west.

How long does the Drum Tower take?

About 45 minutes to climb and see the drums. Pair it with the Muslim Quarter and the Bell Tower next door.

Should I buy the combo ticket?

Yes, if you plan both towers. The combo is cheaper than two singles and saves a second queue.

Drum Tower Xi'an 2026: Tickets, Shows & How to Visit

The Drum Tower is the Bell Tower's twin above the Muslim Quarter. Learn the $4.20 ticket, the drum shows and how to pair it in 2026.

The Drum Tower of Xi'an lit at night — Photo: kowal-tyler · Pexels License · source page · author

The Drum Tower is the Bell Tower’s twin, standing above the entrance to the Muslim Quarter. It once marked the night hour with a great drum. Today you climb it for views and an evening drum performance, then step straight into the food lanes.

Intro: why go

Built in 1380, the Drum Tower faces the Bell Tower across the old city core. Its upper deck looks down on the Muslim Quarter’s tiled roofs. For foreign visitors it is the natural gateway to the best eating in Xi’an.

Tickets & booking

The Drum Tower is about $4.20, and the combo with the Bell Tower is about $7. Buy at the desk or the official channel and verify the live price on site. No reservation is needed.

How to get there & in-site route

Metro: Line 2 to Bell Tower, then walk west past the tower to the Drum Tower base.
The route that works: climb the tower for the roof view, catch a drum show, then descend straight into the Muslim Quarter lanes.
On foot: the core is flat; the two towers are a 5-minute walk apart.
The interior is compact; ramps reach the upper deck.

Facilities

Toilets and a small shop are at the base. The surrounding lanes have food and drinks. Card and Alipay both work; keep some cash for tiny stalls.

Best season & seasonal pros and cons

Spring (Apr–May) & autumn (Sep–Oct): mild evenings for the lit tower.
Summer (Jun–Aug): hot by day; the night show is the cool pick.
Winter (Dec–Feb): cold but atmospheric under the lanterns.
Holidays: the lanes below get packed; the tower stays calm inside.

Tips & scams

Use the combo ticket if you plan both towers; it saves money.
Show times shift by season; confirm on arrival to avoid missing it.
Buy only at the official desk; touts near the base sell nothing real.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the Drum Tower?: The Drum Tower is about $4.20, and the combo with the Bell Tower is about $7. Verify the live price on site.
Is there a drum show at the Drum Tower?: Yes, drum performances run in the evening, often around 19:00 and 20:00. Times change by season, so check on arrival.
How do I get to the Drum Tower?: It sits by the Muslim Quarter, west of the Bell Tower. Take metro Line 2 to Bell Tower station, then walk west.
How long does the Drum Tower take?: About 45 minutes to climb and see the drums. Pair it with the Muslim Quarter and the Bell Tower next door.
Should I buy the combo ticket?: Yes, if you plan both towers. The combo is cheaper than two singles and saves a second queue.

Page last reviewed: 2026-10-18. Ticket seasons and crowd seasons are different things — this page states both where they differ.