As the symbol of Xi'an, Bell Tower and Drum Tower are called 'sister buildings' or 'morning bell and dark drum' for the bell in the Bell Tower was stricken at dawn and the drum in the Drum Tower was beat at sunset to indicate the end of the day in ancient times. Drum Tower is located in the heart of Xi'an City, half of kilo mile away from Bell Tower.

The Drum Tower was erected in 1380 during the early Ming Dynasty and was renovated twice in 1699 and 1740. It is a two-storied post and panel structure which combines the architecture styles of the Tang Dynasty and the Qing Dynasty. The tower is 34 meters (about 112 feet) high and 52.6 meters (about 172 feet) long from east to west as well as 38 meters (about 124 feet) wide from north to south. On the Drum Tower's first floor, lies a hall which hangs many large drums, each of which was decorated with intrinsic and beautiful Chinese writing. On the second floor there is a drum museum, where a variety of drums are on display. In 1996, a new drum, covered by a whole piece of cowhide was given a place on the Drum Tower; it is the biggest drum in China at present.

In ancient times, especially from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), the drums were used to signal the running of time and on occasion were used as an alarm in emergency situations. Nowadays the Drum Tower stands towering above the city center and offers incredible view of Xi'an. Musical performances which will enlighten one on the power of ancient Chinese culture are provided on the Drum Tower. The admission fee is CNY 27 for the Drum Tower only and CNY 40 for the joint ticket of Bell Tower and Drum Tower.