China: A child is paraded on an elaborately decorated palanquin in front of the Bell Tower (Zhonglou), Beijing

The Drum (Gǔlóu) and Bell (Zhōnglóu) towers were originally built in 1272 during the reign of Kublai Khan (r.1260-1294). Emperor Yongle (r. 1402-1424) rebuilt the towers in 1420 and they were again renovated during the reign of Qing Emperor Jiaqing (r. 1796 - 1820).

Both the Drum and Bell towers were used as timekeepers during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia