Nanjing Drum Tower

Introducing Nanjing Drum Tower

Nanjing Drum Tower, located on Drum Tower Hill in the center of Nanjing City, opposite to Nanjing Bell Tower, was the timekeeping center of the old Nanjing City. It was also an important building to urge civil and military officials to be diligent in their government affairs and remind the people to work hard. It was also an important building for major celebrations such as welcoming the king, receiving imperial edicts, and selecting concubines in the capital. It was an important building in the capital of the Ming Dynasty and one of the representatives of ancient Chinese official brick structures.

The Drum Tower, originally built in 1382 (the 15th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty), was a grand and high-end tower. It was later destroyed by war, and by the Qing Dynasty, only the city gate remained. Emperor Kangxi ascended the tower during his southern tour, where he gazed around and erected a stele and built a tower, renamed the "Stele Tower." The existing wooden structure atop the pedestal was constructed in 1684 (the 23rd year of the Kangxi reign). This significant difference in size between the present-day massive Ming Dynasty tower and the towers of the later Qing Dynasty gave rise to the nickname "Ming Drum Tower and Qing Stele Tower."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Drum Tower

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Nanjing Drum Tower, built during the Ming dynasty, was originally used to mark time and signal the beginning of important events. The tower is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of Nanjing's cultural heritage and history. The drums inside the tower were once used to signal the hours, and it remains an important landmark in the city.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Nanjing Drum Tower is located in the central area of Nanjing, Jiangsu province. It can be reached by taxi, metro (Line 2, Drum Tower Station), or bus. It's also a short walk from the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and other key landmarks.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Drum Tower is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to the Nanjing Drum Tower is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official ticketing websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. A few days in advance should be sufficient, though tickets can also be purchased on-site if availability permits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1-2 hours to explore the Drum Tower and its surrounding area, including the exhibits and the views from the top. If you want to take a walk in the nearby parks or visit the surrounding historical sites, you may need an additional hour.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main tower itself, where you can view the drums and learn about their historical use.
• The panoramic views from the top, offering a great sight of Nanjing's skyline.
• The museum exhibits detailing the history of the city and the tower.
• The surrounding grounds, which feature beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides are provided in multiple languages, including English. It's recommended to check availability at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the Drum Tower provides a great panoramic view of the city, perfect for photography.
• Near the base of the tower, the surrounding gardens and the tower's architecture make for excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main floor and learning about the history of the tower. Then, head to the top for the panoramic views. Afterward, visit the museum exhibits before taking a stroll through the nearby gardens.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically offered at the Drum Tower, though the surrounding area is beautifully lit in the evening, making for a scenic visit. Special cultural events and performances may occur during holidays or festivals, so it's worth checking ahead.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Drum Tower can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, try visiting during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Toilets are available on-site for visitors' convenience.
• There are food stalls and small shops selling snacks and drinks near the entrance.
• Rest areas are available inside the tower and in the surrounding gardens.
• Souvenir shops offer traditional crafts and other local products.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Drum Tower is accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, there are stairs leading to the top of the tower, so visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging. The surrounding area is generally accessible, with paved paths and rest areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, and credit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to carry a mobile payment option for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several small restaurants near the Drum Tower offering traditional Chinese dishes.
• Cafes and tea houses can be found in the nearby shopping districts.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but there are dedicated restaurants in Nanjing catering to these diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are many hotels in the area, ranging from budget options to luxury accommodations, including the Nanjing Grand Hotel and local guesthouses.
• Hotels near the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge also offer convenient access to the Drum Tower and nearby attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Nanjing City Wall, a major historical site in the city.
• The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, one of China's most famous bridges.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the Drum Tower selling local handicrafts, traditional Chinese art, and small mementos like postcards and keychains.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public buses, taxis, and the metro are all convenient options for continuing your trip after visiting the Drum Tower. You can easily access other parts of Nanjing from the nearby metro station.