Audio Guide of the Drum Tower

The Drum Tower is located within the ancient village of Xidi and follows the site's general opening hours, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To get there, you can take a direct bus from the Huangshan or Tunxi bus station, a journey of approximately an hour and a half.

Access to the tower is included in the general admission ticket to Xidi Village, which costs around 104 CNY (about 14–15 USD). You do not need a separate ticket to see the structure, but make sure to keep your main ticket with you throughout the visit.

To properly appreciate the tower's architecture and surroundings, you will need about 20 to 30 minutes. However, I recommend setting aside at least 3 hours to enjoy the entire historic complex of Xidi at a relaxed pace.

This building is a classic example of Huizhou-style architecture and traditionally served to mark time and warn of emergencies in the village. It is a key site for understanding the social organization of the Ming and Qing dynasties; you can read more about this heritage on the UNESCO website.

The best time is during spring (March–April) to see the rapeseed fields in bloom, or in autumn for the mild weather. I suggest arriving early in the morning, before 9:00 a.m., to avoid tourist groups and get the best photos.

Keep in mind that Xidi is an ancient village with uneven cobbled streets, and the tower may have narrow steps. Accessibility is limited and may be difficult for wheelchairs without considerable assistance.

Just 20 minutes away by car is the famous village of Hongcun, which is often visited on the same day. You should also not miss the impressive Hu Wenguang Memorial Arch, located right at the entrance to Xidi, an essential photographic gem.

Wear very comfortable shoes because you will be walking on old stone the entire time, and be prepared to bargain if you buy local handicrafts. To truly understand what you are seeing beyond the stones, an audio guide is your best investment for unlocking the hidden stories of the place.