Part of the Xian tour is a visit to the Drum and Bell Towers, both built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty. Our guide told us that these were primarily used to advise everyone about the time. The bell is rung at dawn, start of the day, and the drums are played at the end of the day when the gates to the city are to be closed. Now it is one of the main tourist attractions with a drum show held daily and a drum museum inside. There's daily performances too at the Bell tower but we didn't get to watch this.

Photos c/o hubby

Sound of drums, instead of bell, to tell time - how unique. gilda t garbanzos · 2011-03-23: 18:23

nice set! honzicek · 2011-03-24: 08:20

Lovely photos - thanks for sharing. I'm hoping to visit Xi'an with my family soon. Can you remember at what time the drum show takes place? Elizabeth · 2011-05-29: 00:44

We were able to watch the 4 or 4:30pm show. Have fun! LJGarbanzos · 2011-05-29: 21:29

Tagged: travels hubby gfamily