The Bell Tower stands directly behind its more famous companion the Drum Tower, the pair having marked official time for the capital from the Yuan dynasty until 1924. Where the Drum Tower is red and timber-framed, the Bell Tower is a sober grey stone structure, rebuilt in 1745 after fire, housing a huge bronze bell whose toll once carried across the whole old city.
The steep climb up the interior stair is rewarded with one of the best views over the surrounding sea of grey hutong rooftops, and the small square between the two towers is a fine place to watch neighbourhood life — old men playing chess, children, the occasional drum performance. Come at the same time as the Drum Tower; they are a single visit.