Xian Landmarks and Monuments

(Xian, Shaanxi, China)

Some truly spectacular landmarks can be anticipated by visitors headed to Xian, with temples, mosques, towers and oriental monuments all being ever present within this alluring Chinese city. Always impressive in Xian is the Drum Tower (Gu Lou), the Great Mosque (Daqingzhen Si) and the Temple of the Eight Immortals (Baxian An).

One of the most famous of all Xian's landmarks, the Bell Tower stands within Xian city centre and is one sight that is very hard to miss. Particularly historic, the Bell Tower was built during the 14th century, although was subsequently relocated and rebuilt in the early part of the 18th century, during the Qing dynasty.

Drum Tower (Gu Lou)

Address: Beiyuanmen, Xian, China, CN
The Drum Tower is another very prominent landmark in central Xian and is somewhat smaller than the nearby Bell Tower, which stands directly to the east. Constructed during the Ming Dynasty and in the latter part of the 14th century, the Drum Tower stands within the city's characterful Muslim Quarter and on the Beiyuanmen, where many craftsmen and street traders await. Interestingly, the tower is named after the enormous drum housed inside.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge

Bell Tower (Zhong Lou)

Address: Bell Tower Square, Xian, China, CN
The Bell Tower has become something of an iconic image of the city and is around some 40 metres / 131 feet in height, housing a number of ancient bronze bells. Each morning and afternoon, crowds come here to enjoy musical performances, which take place within the tower itself and are well worth attending.
Open hours: daily - 07:30 to 19:00, seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Great Mosque (Daqingzhen Si)

Address: Huajue Xiang, Xian, China, CN
Tel: +86 029 8727 2541
Known for its stylish Chinese architecture and beautiful oriental gardens, the Great Mosque of Xian is close to the Drum Tower and is amongst China's oldest and biggest mosques currently in existence. The present-day structure was built during the middle of the 18th century, although it is widely believed that the mosque was originally established here many centuries before, during the Tang dynasty. Still an active place for worship, the Great Mosque features daily prayer services, where all are welcome to attend.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 20:30, seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Temple of the Eight Immortals (Baxian An)

Address: Yongle Lu, Xian, China, CN
Serving as the city's largest and most impressive Taoist establishment, the Temple of the Eight Immortals is an extremely important part of Taoist mythology and is still used by worshippers today. The temple itself is situated close to the Zhongshan Gate (Zhongshan Mén) and is reputed to have been built on the site of a historic winery. The interior features elaborate and colourful decor, with paintings depicting Taoist scenes surrounding the inner courtyard.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge