Xi’an attraction guide
Xi’an Bell Tower Tickets, Entrance and Visitor Guide
西安钟楼
Visit Xi’an Bell Tower with underground entrance guidance, ticket options, central metro access, evening lighting and an efficient Bell-and-Drum Tower plan.
- Allow
- 1–2 hours
- Ticket
- Paid interior; exterior is free
- Access
- Bell Tower station
- Bring
- Passport for ticket checks
Xi’an Bell Tower marks the city’s historic central axis and is one of its easiest landmarks to see from outside. Entering the tower is a separate paid experience reached through underground passages.
The building is especially photogenic after illumination, while the interior visit works better when daylight supports city views. Decide whether exterior photography or climbing the tower is your priority.
Quick answer
The Bell Tower stands inside a major traffic circle; use the signed underground passage rather than attempting to cross roads at street level. Buy the correct single or combined tower ticket and pair the visit with the Drum Tower and Muslim Quarter.
Photo guide
What Bell Tower looks like
Xi'an Bell Tower at the center of the historic city (view 1)
Photo: Wang Zhongyin. Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
Xi'an Bell Tower at the center of the historic city (view 2)
Photo: This image was produced by me, David Castor ( user:dcastor ). The pictures I submit to the Wikipedia Project are released to the public domain. This gives you the right to use them in any way you like, without any kind of notification. This said, I would still appreciate to be mentioned as the originator whenever you think it complies well with your use of the picture. A message to me about how it has been used would also be welcome. You are obviously not required to respond to these wishes of mine, just in a friendly manner encouraged to. (All my photos are placed in Category:Images by David Castor or a subcategory thereof.). Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
Xi'an Bell Tower at the center of the historic city (view 3)
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas. Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
Tickets, reservations and passport checks for Bell Tower
Check the official attraction channel for current single-entry and Bell-and-Drum Tower combination products. Confirm the date, included buildings and entry method before payment.
Bring the identity document used for any real-name booking. Do not buy from informal sellers in underground passages without verifying the ticket product.
The Bell Tower exterior can be viewed without admission. Pay only if you want the interior and elevated views or a clearly defined combined ticket.
A practical route through Bell Tower
- Enter the signed underground pedestrian passage from Bell Tower metro or a nearby corner.
- Follow the attraction signs to the ticket and security area beneath the traffic circle.
- Visit the main hall and upper viewing areas without blocking narrow stairs.
- Exit underground toward the Drum Tower side.
- Continue to the Muslim Quarter or return after dark for exterior photographs.
How to fit Bell Tower into a Xi’an itinerary
The Bell Tower, Drum Tower and Muslim Quarter form one compact central cluster. Add a short City Wall visit at Yongning Gate only when time and energy allow.
Do not schedule a tight airport or railway transfer through the central traffic circle. Pedestrian passages and crowds take longer than the map suggests.
Keep a workable backup
- Enjoy the exterior and central square if interior tickets are unavailable.
- Visit only one tower interior when time is short.
- Use the underground passages during bad weather instead of crossing at street level.
- Return after dark for the illuminated facade without buying another admission.
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Plan My Xi’an TripFrequently asked questions
How do I enter Xi’an Bell Tower?
Use the signed underground pedestrian passage. The tower sits inside a busy traffic circle and is not approached by crossing the road directly.
Can I see the Bell Tower without a ticket?
Yes. Exterior views are free; admission is for the interior and elevated viewing areas.
Should I buy a Bell and Drum Tower combined ticket?
It can make sense if you want both interiors. Compare the current product and opening hours before buying.
Official information used for this guide
Operational details last checked August 14, 2026. Tickets, hours, transport, closures, and passport workflows can change; confirm final details with the venue.
