Nestled in the lush mountains of Fujian Province, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fujian Tulou stands as a testament to centuries of Hakka ingenuity and communal living. These massive, circular earthen buildings are more than just architectural marvels—they’re living museums, where history, culture, and daily life intertwine. Spend a day here, and you’ll uncover stories of resilience, tradition, and a way of life that’s as captivating as the structures themselves.
The Fujian Tulou, often referred to as "earth buildings," were constructed between the 12th and 20th centuries by the Hakka people. These structures served as fortified villages, designed to protect against bandits and wild animals while fostering a tight-knit community. Each tulou could house up to 80 families, with rooms arranged around a central courtyard. The thick walls—made of compacted earth, bamboo, and stone—kept the interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.
Start your day early, when the mist still clings to the mountains. Wander through the central courtyard of Chengqi Lou, where locals might be grinding tea leaves or airing out dried vegetables. The rhythmic sounds of daily life—chickens clucking, elders chatting, and the occasional clang of a wok—create a symphony of authenticity.
Don’t miss the chance to climb to the upper floors (if permitted) for a bird’s-eye view of the tulou’s concentric rings. The wooden balconies, worn smooth by generations of footsteps, tell silent stories of the past.
Fujian is famous for its tea, and the tulou region is no exception. Stop by a family-run teahouse for a gongfu tea ceremony. The host will expertly pour steaming cups of Tieguanyin (铁观音), a local oolong variety, while explaining the tea’s role in Hakka hospitality.
If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a cultural performance. Traditional Hakka folk songs, sung in the distinctive Hakka dialect, or a lively lion dance can sometimes be arranged for visitors. These art forms, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into the soul of the community.
To truly immerse yourself, book a homestay in one of the tulou. As dusk falls, the courtyard transforms into a communal dining area. Share a meal of Hakka dishes like braised pork with preserved vegetables (梅菜扣肉) or stuffed tofu (酿豆腐), prepared with recipes older than the tulou themselves.
After dinner, join the locals for a stroll under the stars. The absence of city lights makes the night sky here unforgettable. Listen as elders share tales of the tulou’s history—how they survived wars, natural disasters, and the passage of time.
A short drive from the tulou clusters, this picturesque village is straight out of a postcard. Stone pathways, ancient banyan trees, and a tranquil stream set the scene for a leisurely walk. The village gained fame after being featured in the Chinese film Yunshuiyao, and it’s easy to see why.
For a deeper dive into Hakka history, visit the Hakka Culture Museum in Yongding. Exhibits showcase traditional clothing, farming tools, and migration patterns of the Hakka people, who spread across southern China and beyond.
The Fujian Tulou are more than just buildings—they’re a living, breathing culture. A day here isn’t just a visit; it’s a journey into the heart of the Hakka spirit.
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Author: Xiamen Travel
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