Fucheng Drum Tower

　　    The Fucheng Drum Tower is situated on the ancient city wall at the southern end of Wenzhuang Road in Fucheng Town, Qiongshan. It is a simple and elegant wooden and earthen structure. Also known as the Eaves Tower or the Civilization Tower, it was first built during the Hongwu era of the Ming Dynasty by Wang You, the commander of Hainan Wei. According to the *Qiongzhou Prefecture Records* and the *Qiongshan Prefecture Records*, Fucheng had four city gates—east, west, south, and north. The drum tower is located slightly south of the city center and was the site of Hainan Wei. Heavily guarded soldiers were stationed atop the tower, from where they could observe movements both inside and outside the city to maintain public security. It served as a military facility in ancient times.

　　     The drum tower is majestic and imposing. Below it, the city wall is broad and thick, overlooking the open fields, with stone steps leading up to the gate. Originally three stories high, only two stories remain today. Due to its long-standing significance, it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. The current structure was reconstructed in the 14th year of the Wanli era (1605) under the supervision of Minister Wang Hui. Climbing the tower offers a sweeping view of the landscape of Haikou and Qiongshan, evoking a sense of historical reflection.