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At the Quanzhou Bell Tower, you can explore the historical significance of this ancient tower, which is a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage. Enjoy the panoramic views of Quanzhou from the top, visit the surrounding areas of the tower, and photograph the intricate details of the structure. The tower is a great place to immerse yourself in local history and enjoy scenic city views.
The Quanzhou Bell Tower is a standard European-style clock tower located at the intersection of East and West Streets in Quanzhou. Designed by a British-educated designer, it stands 13.8 meters tall. Currently, the clock has been replaced with a quartz clock, and festive lights have been installed, giving it a new, dazzling glow at night.
The Bell Tower is located in the heart of Quanzhou city, just a stone's throw from the thousand-year-old Kaiyuan Temple and facing the East and West Pagodas in the distance. The Weiyuan Tower, the East and West Pagodas, and the Bell Tower create a unique and picturesque scene. The clock atop the Bell Tower is known as the "standard clock" by the "old Quanzhou" community for its accuracy. In the past, when watches were not widely available, many residents passing by the Bell Tower would habitually glance up to check the time. Those who wore watches would also stop to check the time. Elderly residents nearby say this clock was once the only public clock in Quanzhou.
Subtropical maritime monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to watch for about ten minutes
free
All day (external viewing only)
The Quanzhou Bell Tower, built during the Song Dynasty (1276), served as a landmark and a timepiece for the local population. It stands as a symbol of Quanzhou’s historical importance as a thriving port city and center of trade along the Maritime Silk Road. The tower is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture.
The Quanzhou Bell Tower is located in the heart of Quanzhou city. It can be easily reached by taxi, bus, or on foot from the city center. If you are close to the Quanzhou city center, it's a short walk to the tower. Taxis and buses are also convenient options if you're traveling from other parts of the city.
The Quanzhou Bell Tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly on weekdays to avoid larger crowds. It is especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights begin to shine.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site at the ticket counter. Online ticket sales are not common for this location, but it's always good to check before visiting during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can easily buy tickets on-site, even on the day of your visit. However, during the peak tourist seasons (like national holidays), it may be beneficial to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines.
A visit to the Quanzhou Bell Tower generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This includes time to explore the tower, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding area. If you're interested in learning more about its history, you might spend up to an hour.
The main highlight of the tower is the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Quanzhou. The bell itself is also a significant feature, as well as the intricate carvings on the tower. The surrounding courtyard and nearby cultural sites are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are also audio guides in Mandarin. English audio guides may be available, but it’s advisable to check in advance or hire a local guide for more in-depth information.
The best photography spots are from the top of the Bell Tower, offering a stunning view of Quanzhou’s cityscape, including the nearby temples and historical sites. The intricate details of the tower’s architecture also make for beautiful close-up shots.
Start by visiting the base of the tower to admire its architectural details. Then, climb to the top to take in the views. After exploring the tower, stroll around the surrounding park area to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the other nearby historical landmarks.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Bell Tower. However, the tower is beautifully lit up at night, providing a wonderful opportunity for evening photography and enjoying the quiet ambiance of the area.
The Bell Tower can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the larger tourist crowds.
The tower has basic facilities, including public toilets and rest areas. There are no large food or drink outlets at the tower, but small shops offering water and snacks are nearby. For meals, you can explore local restaurants in the city center.
The Bell Tower has stairs that lead to the top, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the ground level and surrounding park area are accessible for everyone, and the area is family-friendly.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted. Credit cards may be accepted in some cases, but it’s safer to rely on mobile payments or cash.
There are several local restaurants near the Bell Tower offering traditional Fujian cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and seafood. For coffee and snacks, you can find cafes in the nearby areas of Quanzhou.
Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants, and halal food can be found in some places catering to Muslim visitors, especially in the city center of Quanzhou.
There are a variety of hotels near the Bell Tower, ranging from budget guesthouses to more upscale accommodations. Many are located in the city center and within walking distance from the tower.
Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, Quanzhou Maritime Museum, and Qingjing Mosque. These can easily be combined in a day trip to explore more of Quanzhou’s rich cultural heritage.
The Bell Tower has a small gift shop selling souvenirs such as local crafts, historical books, and traditional Chinese items like tea sets and silk products. Additional souvenir shops can be found in the nearby areas of Quanzhou.
Taxis and buses are available to continue your trip. If you're heading to other attractions in Quanzhou, public transportation is a convenient option. The train station is also easily accessible for those wishing to continue their journey to other cities.
