The Drum Tower of Datong, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, was initially erected to complement the Bell Tower and serve the purpose of timekeeping. Throughout the Qing Dynasty's reigns of Shunzhi, Qianlong, and Xianfeng, the tower underwent several renovations. According to the "Datong County Annals," during the Ming Dynasty, Datong was replete with towers and pavilions. To the east stood the Taiping Tower in Heyang Street, the Bell Tower in Qingyuan Street to the west, the Kui Xing Tower in Wuding Street to the north, and the Drum Tower in Yongtai Street to the south. Presently, only the Drum Tower remains intact.

The plan of the Drum Tower is nearly square-shaped, with three bays in both width and depth, reaching a height of about 20 meters. It spans roughly 18 meters from east to west and 14 meters from north to south. The base is crafted from bluestone, forming the corners, and features a central cross-shaped entrance. Above, a three-story wooden and brick structure adorned with projecting eaves, bracket sets, and a hip-and-gable roof caps the base. Each level comprises doors on all sides, encircled by corridors and supplemented with railings. Previously, a large drum adorned the top floor for evening timekeeping, though it no longer remains.

Practical Information:

  • Location: Datong City
  • Transportation: Take Bus 17 or 18 to the Drum Tower station within the city.
  • Admission: Free admission with valid ID; tickets are obtained at Chunyang Palace ticket windows.
  • Opening Hours: 09:00-18:00 (Daily)
  • Visit Duration: Typically under 1 hour

The Drum Tower stands as a testament to Datong's historical landscape, an enduring relic that transports visitors back to an era of architectural splendor and timekeeping significance.