Explore Beijing's cultural heritage with a visit to the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Prince Gong’s Mansion. Discover the ancient-to-modern evolution of the central axis and the profound courtyard charm along Shichahai Lake.

Begin at the Drum Tower, first built in the Yuan Dynasty and renovated through the Ming and Qing dynasties. Admire its majestic multi-eave hip-and-gable roof, crimson walls, and dark grey tiles, embodying the exquisite aesthetics of traditional Chinese architecture.

See restored ancient drums and chronological artifacts of successive dynasties, vividly presenting the wisdom of ancient timekeeping civilization and how ancestors lived in harmony with natural rhythms. Stand on the high platform and gaze afar to overlook the authentic hutong landscape of old Beijing.

Next, head to the Bell Tower, located just north of the Drum Tower. See the giant 63-ton bronze bell cast in the Ming Dynasty, a pinnacle of ancient bell-founding art with delicate textures and exquisite craftsmanship.

Finally, visit Prince Gong’s Mansion near Shichahai Lake. See the best-preserved, most exquisitely structured, and elegantly landscaped royal mansion of the Qing Dynasty.