Fujian Tulou

Fujian Tulou: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Overview

Fujian Tulou, located in the southern part of Fujian Province, China, is a unique architectural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site. These earthen buildings, called tulous, are fortified housing complexes built by the Hakka people over centuries as a means of protection against invaders.

Location and Accessibility

The Fujian Tulou cluster is primarily located in two counties: Nanjing (南京县) and Yongding (永定县). These counties are part of the prefecture-level city of Longyan (龙岩市). The nearest major cities are Xiamen and Quanzhou.

How to Get There

  1. By Air: The closest international airport is Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), which has direct flights from various Asian countries. From Xiamen, you can take a train or bus to Longyan city.

  2. By Train: Longyan East Railway Station (龙岩东站) and Longyan West Railway Station (龙岩西站) have frequent trains from cities like Xiamen, Fuzhou, and Shanghai.

  3. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from major cities in Fujian Province and beyond.

Key Tulous to Visit

  1. Earthen House of King’s Mother (母王寨) - This is the largest and most representative tulou, located in Nanjing County. It has a circular layout with seven concentric rings and can accommodate up to 80 families.

  2. Jia family’s Tulou Cluster (贾家土楼群) - Located in Yongding County, this cluster includes the Earth God Temple and the Bell Tower. The Jia Family’s Tulou is another large tulou with a star-shaped layout.

  3. Hekeng Tulou (合kern土楼) - This site is located higher up on the mountain slopes and is less touristy than the other sites. It includes the Earth God Temple, the Bell Tower, and various smaller tulous.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fujian Tulou is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, keep in mind that during national holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day), these sites can get very crowded.

What to Expect

  1. Architecture: The tulous are built with rammed earth and wooden structures. They feature thick walls, central courtyards, and communal areas for shared activities like cooking and entertainment.

  2. Culture: The Hakka people have their own unique customs, dialects, and cuisine. Visitors can learn about these cultural aspects through guided tours, local festivals, and tulou museums.

  3. Activities: Activities include visiting the earth god temples, climbing to the top of tulous for panoramic views, exploring surrounding villages, and trying local Hakka cuisine.

  4. Lodging: There are various guesthouses inside the tulous where you can stay overnight to experience the local lifestyle.

Tips for Visitors

  1. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking involved.
  2. Carry sunscreen, water, and snacks, especially if visiting during the summer months.
  3. Respect the local culture and traditions by dressing appropriately and following any rules or guidelines provided by tour guides.
  4. Consider hiring a local guide to get a deeper understanding of the tulous and Hakka culture.

Conclusion

Fujian Tulou offers a unique insight into China’s rural history and architecture. By visiting these magnificent structures, you will not only enjoy their stunning beauty but also learn about the resilient spirit of the Hakka people.

Fujian Tulou: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Fujian Tulou
  2. History and Cultural Significance
  3. Architectural Features
  4. Location and Best Time to Visit
  5. How to Get There
  6. Top Tulou Clusters to Explore
    • Earthen Buildings Cluster in Xiamei
    • Gaobei Tulou Cluster
    • Yongding Tulou Cluster
  7. What to Expect During Your Visit
  8. Local Cuisine and Traditional Festivals
  9. Tips for a Memorable Experience
  10. Recommended Tour Packages
  11. Safety Tips and Responsible Travel

1. Introduction to Fujian Tulou

Fujian Tulou, also known as Hakka Fortified House, are unique earth buildings scattered across the mountainous regions of southern Fujian Province in China. These circular or rectangular structures were built by the Hakka people for defense and community living purposes between the 15th and 20th centuries.

2. History and Cultural Significance

The Tulou architecture is a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and cultural heritage of the Hakka people. These earth structures were designed to protect inhabitants from invasions and bandit attacks during turbulent times in history. UNESCO recognized Fujian Tulou as a World Heritage Site in 2008 due to their outstanding universal value.

3. Architectural Features

Tulou are made primarily of earth, wood, and stone, with thick walls that can reach up to 6 meters (19 ft). The architectural design includes circular towers, square towers, and rectangular buildings connected by corridors. The most iconic feature is the central hearth, which symbolizes family unity and serves as a gathering place for social activities.

4. Location and Best Time to Visit

The Tulou clusters are located in the counties of Nanjing, Yongding, and Shunxian, approximately 3 hours by car from Xiamen or Fuzhou cities. The best time to visit is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and scenic.

5. How to Get There

The most convenient way to reach the Tulou clusters is by taking a high-speed train or flight to Xiamen or Fuzhou, followed by a car or bus transfer. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from some major cities like Shanghai or Guangzhou.

6. Top Tulou Clusters to Explore

Earthen Buildings Cluster in Xiamei

This cluster is one of the best-preserved and most scenic Tulou groups. It includes over 30 circular and rectangular buildings, with the iconic Bell Fort, Drum Tower, and Sheng Congwen’s House as highlights.

Gaobei Tulou Cluster

Located in Yongding County, this cluster features tall circular towers and is known for its impressive central hearth. The Gaobei Earth Buildings Museum offers insights into the Hakka culture.

Yongding Tulou Cluster

This is the largest Tulou cluster with over 100 earth buildings, including the famous Kuangfu Earth Building and Tianluokeng Tulou Village. The latter serves as a museum dedicated to the Hakka people’s history and culture.

7. What to Expect During Your Visit

Visitors can explore these ancient structures, learn about the Hakka culture, and experience traditional customs. Some clusters offer overnight stays in restored Tulou buildings, providing an authentic immersion into this unique way of life.

8. Local Cuisine and Traditional Festivals

Don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as smoked chicken, bamboo rice, and Hakka noodles. The annual Dragon Boat Festival in June and the Mid-Autumn Festival in October are great opportunities to experience traditional Hakka celebrations.

9. Tips for a Memorable Experience

Be sure to dress modestly and respect local customs. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring. Additionally, hiring a guide or joining a tour can enhance your understanding of the Tulou and Hakka culture.

Many travel agencies offer customizable tours to Fujian Tulou, allowing visitors to experience multiple clusters within a few days. Consider booking a tour that includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide.

11. Safety Tips and Responsible Travel

Always follow the advice of your guide or host when visiting the Tulou clusters. Respect the local customs and traditions, and avoid causing any disturbance to the community’s daily life. By being a responsible traveler, you can help preserve these remarkable earth buildings for generations to come.

Fujian Tulou: A Unique Architectural Marvel in Xiamen, China

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on Fujian Tulou! This fascinating architectural wonder is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and architecture. Located in the southeastern part of China, in the Fujian province, these unique earth buildings are an outstanding example of rural earthen construction, representing a remarkable achievement of human creative genius.

Overview

Fujian Tulou, also known as the Hakka Earth Buildings, are a cluster of circular or rectangular earthen fortresses built by the Hakka people over 500 years ago to protect themselves from invaders. The name “Tulou” translates to “Earth Castle.” These impressive structures are not just homes but also social units, community centers, and defensive fortifications.

History

The construction of Fujian Tulou began during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and continued through the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). The Hakka people, who migrated from central China to the mountainous regions of Fujian province, built these structures as a means of protection against frequent invasions.

Architecture

Fujian Tulou are characterized by their massive earthen walls and unique circular or rectangular shapes. The walls can be up to 15 feet thick and 6-7 stories high. The buildings have a central courtyard surrounded by residential units, and the entrance is often located at the top of the structure, offering a strategic advantage in case of an attack.

The architecture of these buildings reflects the Hakka people’s ingenuity and resilience. They are built using a technique called “kang” construction, where rammed earth is used to create thick walls with hollow spaces inside for insulation and heating purposes.

Location

The Fujian Tulou are primarily concentrated in three counties: Nanjing, Yongding, and Longyan. The most famous site is the Yongding Tulou Cluster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. This cluster consists of over 1,500 well-preserved Tulou buildings.

Visiting Fujian Tulou

When planning your visit, consider the following tips:

  1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and you’ll have a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

  2. Getting There: The nearest international airport is Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the Tulou area.

  3. Guided Tours: It’s recommended to take a guided tour to fully understand and appreciate the history, culture, and architecture of Fujian Tulou. Many tours are available from Xiamen or other nearby cities.

  4. Accommodation: There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Tulou area. Some of the Tulou themselves have been converted into hotels, offering a unique overnight experience.

  5. Food: Try the local Hakka cuisine, which is famous for its strong flavors and use of preserved foods.

Conclusion

A visit to Fujian Tulou offers a glimpse into China’s rich rural heritage and the incredible ingenuity of its people. Don’t miss out on this unique architectural wonder!

Fujian Tulou: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
    • Definition and History
    • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  2. Location
    • Geographical Position
    • How to Reach Fujian Tulou
  3. Key Tulous
    • Earth Buildings (Tu Di)
      • Xiakou Earth Building
      • Gaobei Earth Building
    • Round Buildings (Tu Lu)
      • Yuchanglou
      • Chengqilou
    • Rectangular Buildings (Tu Hui)
      • Jiaoyu Lou
      • Kying Lou
  4. Culture and Customs
    • Daily Life
    • Festivals and Celebrations
  5. Visiting Tips
    • Best Time to Visit
    • What to Pack
    • Local Delicacies
  6. Eco-Tourism
  7. Sustainable Travel
  8. Accommodation Options
  9. Tour Operators and Guides
  10. Useful Resources

1. Introduction

Definition and History

Fujian Tulou, also known as Fengshun Earth Buildings, are unique earthen architectural structures found in the rural areas of Fujian Province, China. These circular, square, or rectangular fortress-like buildings were primarily inhabited by Hakka people who migrated to this region during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368 - 1912). They were built for self-defense against bandits, as well as to withstand natural disasters such as typhoons.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Fujian Tulou are recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2008. The inscription recognizes the outstanding universal value of these earthen structures, which represent an exceptional example of a traditional, living architectural tradition.

2. Location

Geographical Position

The Fujian Tulou are located in the central and western regions of Fujian Province, particularly in the county of Nanjing, in the prefecture of Longyan. The area is known for its hilly terrain and subtropical monsoon climate.

How to Reach Fujian Tulou

By Air: The nearest international airport is Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, which has direct flights from many cities in Asia. From there, you can take a train or bus to Longyan city.

By Train: Longyan East Railway Station is the main station connecting Longyan with other major cities like Xiamen and Fuzhou.

By Bus: There are numerous buses available from Longyan city to the Tulou villages.

3. Key Tulous

Earth Buildings (Tu Di)

  • Xiakou Earth Building: Located in Xiakou Village, this is one of the largest earth buildings with a total area of 4,500 square meters and a circumference of about 296 meters. It was built around 1480.

  • Gaobei Earth Building: This massive earth building, located in Gaobei Village, covers an area of 3,000 square meters and was constructed between 1477 and 1486. It is one of the earliest and best preserved earth buildings.

Round Buildings (Tu Lu)

  • Yuchanglou: Built in 1796, Yuchanglou is a circular tower with seven stories and eleven rings of rooms. It is located in Xiache Village.

  • Chengqilou: This four-story, nine-ring circular building was built in 1802. It is located in Chengqi Village.

Rectangular Buildings (Tu Hui)

  • Jiaoyu Lou: Constructed between 1796 and 1845, this rectangular fortress has eight stories and covers an area of about 10,000 square meters. It is located in Jiaoyu Village.

  • Kying Lou: Built around 1480, Kying Lou is a six-story, nine-ring rectangular building. It is located in Kying Village.

4. Culture and Customs

Daily Life

Life in the Tulou communities revolves around farming, animal husbandry, and weaving. The Hakka people have preserved many of their traditional customs, such as ancestor worship, marriage rituals, and festivals.

Festivals and Celebrations

The most famous festival is the Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated in June to ward off diseases. Another important celebration is the Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang), held on the ninth day of the ninth month according to the lunar calendar. This day is traditionally spent climbing mountains for health benefits and enjoying chrysanthemums.

5. Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fujian Tulou is between March and May, when the weather is mild and pleasant, or from September to November, when the autumn scenery is stunning.

What to Pack

Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear (just in case). Don’t forget your camera!

Local Delicacies

Try local specialties like Tongmian Rice Noodles, Hakka Ham, and Longyan Grapes.

6. Eco-Tourism

The Fujian Tulou area is rich in biodiversity, with numerous plants and animals found here. Consider joining an eco-tour to explore the local flora and fauna.

7. Sustainable Travel

When visiting the Tulou villages, opt for local transportation such as bicycles or electric tricycles. Support local businesses and respect the local culture and environment.

8. Accommodation Options

There are various accommodation options available in the Tulou area, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Many of these offer cultural experiences such as Hakka cooking classes or traditional dance performances.

9. Tour Operators and Guides

Consider booking a tour with a local operator to ensure you make the most of your visit. They can provide insights into the culture, history, and daily life of the Hakka people.

10. Useful Resources

A Comprehensive Guide to Fujian Tulou: Unraveling the Mystery of Earth Buildings

Welcome to our guide for the enchanting and unique Fujian Tulou! Nestled in the mountains of southeastern China, these remarkable earth buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, awaiting your discovery. This guide will take you on a journey through the history, architecture, culture, and practical tips to make the most of your visit to these marvelous structures.

I. Introduction

The Fujian Tulou, also known as the Hakka Earth Buildings, are a series of fortified, communal residential structures built by the Hakka people over several centuries in the mountainous regions of Fujian Province. These earthen dwellings have stood the test of time and offer a glimpse into China’s rich rural history and traditional architecture.

II. History

The construction of these earth buildings dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), with the majority being built during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. The Hakka people, who migrated from northern China during times of conflict and agricultural reforms, found the mountainous areas of Fujian to be an ideal location for their new homes due to its abundant resources and defense potential.

III. Architecture

1. Design

Tulou are circular or rectangular earthen buildings, often with multiple stories. They have thick walls made from compacted earth, measuring between 4 to 6 meters in thickness. The architectural design of these structures was intended for both residential and defensive purposes, making them self-sufficient communities.

2. Layout

A typical Tulou is composed of several courtyards, each with a central tower (gudun) used as a watchtower to provide security. The living quarters are arranged around these central courtyards, and each family has its own private living space within the building.

3. Ingenious Features

Tulou showcase impressive engineering feats that make them not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical for the harsh mountainous climate. For instance, they have a unique drainage system to prevent water from seeping into the walls and underground water tanks for storing rainwater.

IV. Culture

1. The Hakka People

The Hakka people are known for their strong work ethic, resilience, and self-reliance. They have maintained a unique culture distinct from other ethnic groups in China, which is reflected in the Tulou’s architecture and traditions.

2. Festivals & Celebrations

The Hakka people celebrate several traditional festivals, such as the Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day) and Dragon Boat Festival. These celebrations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture by witnessing colorful processions, dragon dances, and traditional music performances.

V. Must-Visit Tulou Clusters

  1. Earthen Buildings of Xiamei - A cluster of 12 Tulous, including the famous Bell Tower Tulou, showcasing various architectural styles.
  2. Hongkeng Tulou Cluster - One of the best-preserved and most impressive clusters with over 80 Tulous. The highlight is the Shaking House Tulou, which is said to shake like a leaf in the wind.
  3. Tianluokeng Tulou Village - A picturesque cluster of Tulous surrounded by lush rice paddies and waterways. Don’t miss the Seven Star-Coupled Houses!

VI. Practical Tips for Visiting Fujian Tulou

  1. Best Time to Visit - The best time to visit is during the spring (March – May) or autumn (September – November), when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its finest.
  2. Getting There - The easiest way to reach Fujian Tulou is by taking a flight to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport or Fuzhou Changle International Airport and then arranging transportation to the Tulou clusters.
  3. Accommodation - Many of the Tulou have been converted into guesthouses, offering a unique stay experience. If you prefer more comfortable accommodations, there are hotels available in nearby towns.
  4. Guided Tours - Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history, culture, and architecture of the Tulou from knowledgeable guides.
  5. Respect Local Customs & Traditions - As a tourist, it is essential to respect local customs and traditions, including dressing modestly and following any rules or guidelines provided by your guide or at the Tulou sites.

VII. Conclusion

The Fujian Tulou offer an unparalleled experience of China’s rich rural history, unique architecture, and vibrant culture. By visiting these remarkable earth buildings, you will have a chance to immerse yourself in the stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations. So pack your bags, embrace your inner explorer, and discover the enchanting world of Fujian Tulou!