7. Bell and Drum Towers

The Drum Tower and Bell Tower, located in the heart of Xi'an, are called sister buildings. They are the symbols of the city. The Drum Tower offers an imposing view of Xi'an. Initially built in 1380, the drums were used to signal the running of time and on occasion were used as an alarm in emergency situations. In 1996, a new drum was put into the Drum Tower and is the biggest drum in China.

The Bell Tower, built in 1384, once marked the geographical center of the ancient capital. The tower is made of brick and timber and almost 40 meters high. During the Ming Dynasty, Xi'an was an important military town in Northwest China, a fact reflected in the size and historic significance of its Bell Tower.

Admission: 35 yuan each, or 50 yuan for a joint ticket

Opening hours: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (April to October); 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (November to March)

8. Famen Temple

The Famen Temple is located in Famen Town 120 kilometers west of Xi'an. It is a famous temple in China. It was built in Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) to house the bones of the fingers of Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism. The temple, originally called Asoka Stupa, was later renamed “Famen,” which means the initial approach to becoming a Buddhist believer.

Admission: 120 yuan (peak seasons): 90 yuan (off seasons)

Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (peak seasons); 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (off seasons)

Travel tips: It consists of two scenic spots, the Famen Temple and the museum. Many priceless relics are on display at the museum.