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The Yinchuan Drum Tower, located at the intersection of Jiefang East-West Street and Gulou North-South Street in Yinchuan, is also known as the "Cross Drum Tower," the "Four Drum Tower," and more commonly, the "Drum Tower." Standing 36 meters tall and covering 576 square meters, it comprises a platform, pavilions, and corner pavilions. The platform is square, 24 meters on a side and 8.5 meters high, constructed of brick and stone. It is now a key protected site in Yinchuan, Ningxia.
The Bell and Drum Tower is an ancient structure of revolutionary significance. In 1926, during the period of cooperation between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party, the Ningxia Special Branch of the Chinese Communist Party, the first Chinese Communist Party organization in Ningxia, and the offices of the Kuomintang County Party Committee were located in the northeast corner of the Bell and Drum Tower. Ningxia was liberated on September 23, 1949. On September 26, Commander Yang Dezhi and Political Commissar Li Zhimin of the 19th Corps of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, along with prominent Ningxia figures, reviewed the PLA's entry ceremony from the Bell and Drum Tower.
After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the People's Government carried out several reinforcement and repairs on the Bell and Drum Tower. In recent years, circular flower beds have been added around the tower, and a Party History Exhibition Room has been established upstairs. The Bell and Drum Tower is now a key cultural relic protection site in Yinchuan, Ningxia.
Temperate continental climate; the Drum Tower is a commemorative building where you can experience the party’s history and culture, and the red spirit. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Drum Tower Pedestrian Street;
It is recommended to play for 1 hour
5 yuan/person
9:00-18:00
The Yinchuan Drum Tower dates back to the Ming Dynasty and served as a vital part of the city's defense and communication system. The tower was used for signaling and marking time with drum beats, a tradition that continues with performances to this day. The tower is also an architectural symbol of Yinchuan’s historical and cultural importance.
The Yinchuan Drum Tower is located in the city center of Yinchuan, Ningxia. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus. The city’s central location makes it a short walk from nearby hotels and other tourist spots. Public transportation options like buses are frequent, and taxis are a convenient choice for tourists.
The Drum Tower is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the late morning or early afternoon when the weather is typically pleasant, and the crowds are manageable. Evening visits can also be enjoyable to witness the drum performances.
The entrance fee for the Yinchuan Drum Tower is around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and during peak seasons, you may also find tickets available for pre-purchase online through local platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally required unless visiting during a peak tourist season or for a special event. If you prefer to secure your ticket early, booking a day or two in advance should be sufficient.
It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the Yinchuan Drum Tower, including time to enjoy the drum performances, climb to the top for panoramic views, and visit the exhibits.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may be available, but it’s advisable to check at the entrance or in advance for language options.
Start by exploring the base of the tower, then make your way to the top for the best views. Take time to enjoy the exhibitions and watch the drum performance. Finish your visit by strolling around the tower's surrounding area, which has shops and food stalls.
While the Yinchuan Drum Tower does not typically offer special light shows, evening visits are popular for witnessing the traditional drum performances, which add a unique experience to the visit.
The Drum Tower tends to be busier during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or later in the afternoon when most tourists have left.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops and food stalls around the tower, but it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to spend a long time there.
The attraction is generally accessible for elderly visitors, although the stairs to the top may be challenging for those with mobility issues. There are resting spots along the way for breaks. The main exhibition areas are accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payments are the most convenient option for transactions at the tower.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the Drum Tower, serving traditional Ningxia cuisine. For a more formal dining experience, head to nearby hotels offering a variety of international and regional dishes.
Many restaurants around the Drum Tower offer halal options due to the large Muslim population in the region. Vegetarian options are also available at most eateries, particularly in local restaurants.
Hotels such as the Yinchuan Grand Hotel, and other mid-range hotels, are located within a short distance of the Drum Tower. Budget accommodations are also available in the area for those looking for cheaper options.
There are souvenir shops near the Drum Tower, selling items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, Ningxia specialty products, and cultural memorabilia like miniature drums and tea sets.
Taxis and public buses are available to take you to other attractions in Yinchuan. Renting a car or using a private tour service is recommended for visiting sites further out, such as Sand Lake or the Ningxia Museum.
