Bianjing Drum Tower, Drum tower in Dai County, Xinzhou, China

The Bianjing Drum Tower stands 39.3 meters tall with a stone base measuring 40 meters in length and 33 meters in width, featuring three stories of traditional Chinese wooden construction topped with a classic pagoda-style roof.

Originally constructed in 1374 during the Hongwu Emperor's reign and rebuilt in 1476 after fire damage, this Ming Dynasty tower has undergone multiple restorations including major repairs in 1957, 1976, and 1986.

The tower's name means "Pacify the Border," and it was first called Jingbian Lou before being renamed Bianjing Lou after the 1476 rebuilding. Its three plaques date from the Qing: "Audible in All Directions" and "Majestic Across the Three Passes" were both inscribed in 1733, while "First Tower of Yanmen" was added in 1847.

Designated as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in 2001, the tower operates as a museum with guided tours available year-round and nearby amenities including information centers.

The tower displays two significant plaques reading 'First Tower of Yanmen' and 'Audible in All Directions,' emphasizing its strategic position near the historically important Yanmen Pass defense corridor.