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Visit the Drum Tower to learn about its historical significance, enjoy panoramic views of Tianjin from the top, and listen to the drum performances that happen daily. You can also explore the surrounding area for traditional architecture and local shops.
The Three Treasures of Tianjin are the Drum Tower, the Fort, and the Bell Tower, which are considered one of the Ten Scenic Spots of Tianjin. The modern city of Tianjin was formed with the Drum Tower as its center, expanding outwards. Some say the Drum Tower is the birthplace of Tianjin.
The Drum Tower stands three stories high. The base is a square brick platform, wide at the bottom and narrow at the top, with four arched doorways providing access to the four main streets, east, west, south, and north. Atop this platform, two floors were built. The first floor is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, the Queen Mother of Heaven, Guan Yu, and Yue Fei. On the second floor, a 300-jin iron bell hangs. This bell now rests on a cement base in the corridor of Suiyuan Garden. Although it cannot be struck, it remains a beautifully crafted work of art, a place for people to admire and contemplate.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 1 hour
27.00 yuan (excluding bell ringing fee)
Bell and Drum Tower combined ticket: 40.00 yuan/person
April 1st ~ October 25th: 08:30~22:00
October 26th ~ March 31st: 08:30~17:00
The Tianjin Drum Tower, built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty, was once used to announce the time to the public with drumbeats. It is a symbol of Tianjin’s history, reflecting the city’s cultural and architectural heritage.
The Drum Tower is located in the heart of Tianjin, near the Ancient Culture Street. It is accessible by metro (Line 1, Drum Tower Station), taxi, or a short walk from the nearby shopping and cultural areas.
The Drum Tower is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is around ¥30. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It’s recommended to buy them offline, as online booking is not commonly required.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can buy them directly at the entrance.
A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, which is enough to explore the tower, learn about its history, and enjoy the surrounding areas.
The main highlights are the drum performance on the hour, the panoramic view of Tianjin from the top of the tower, and the historical exhibits inside the building that showcase the tower’s significance.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but a local guide can provide detailed information about the tower and its history.
The best photography spots are from the top of the tower, where you can capture a panoramic view of Tianjin’s skyline and the surrounding ancient architecture. The views are especially beautiful during sunset.
Start by exploring the first floor where you can learn about the tower’s history, then head up to the observation deck for views of Tianjin. Finish your visit by watching the drum performance at the top.
Night visits are not commonly available, but the tower is beautifully lit up at night, offering a great opportunity for evening photography. No special tours or light shows are regularly held at the site.
The Drum Tower can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are typically early mornings and weekdays.
There are basic facilities available, including public toilets and rest areas. Nearby, you will find cafes and souvenir shops selling local goods.
The Drum Tower is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the climb to the top may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The surrounding area is also pedestrian-friendly.
Cash is not required, as most transactions are accepted via mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) or credit cards. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Nearby restaurants and cafes offer a mix of Chinese and international cuisine. The Ancient Culture Street area has traditional eateries serving local Tianjin specialties, like baozi (steamed buns).
Yes, there are vegetarian and halal food options in nearby restaurants, particularly in the Muslim Quarter of Tianjin, which is not far from the Drum Tower.
Nearby hotels include the Tianjin Maritim Hotel, Holiday Inn Tianjin, and local budget options. These accommodations are within walking distance of the Drum Tower and other key attractions.
Other nearby attractions include the Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye, and the Italian Style Town. These can easily be visited in one day, offering a mix of cultural and scenic experiences.
Souvenir shops around the Drum Tower sell traditional Tianjin items such as silk products, handicrafts, and local snacks. The Ancient Culture Street is also a great place for unique souvenirs.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or metro to continue exploring Tianjin. The Tianjin Eye and Ancient Culture Street are nearby and easily accessible via public transport.
