Fujian Tulou Yongding Scenic Area in Longyan

overview

? Fujian Tulou Yongding Scenic Area is a true masterpiece of Hakka dwellings, hailed as the “Oriental Castle.” With a long history, unique style, grand scale, exquisite structure, practical functions, and rich cultural heritage, it has earned global recognition as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Here’s your essential guide for exploring this one-of-a-kind destination.

✨ Highlights of the Scenic Area

Yongding Tulou is home to hundreds of earthen buildings (Tulou), each showcasing the ingenuity, unity, and cultural traditions of the Hakka people. These spectacular round and square fortress-like dwellings are often described as “magical architectural wonders unique in the world.” The site combines architecture, intangible cultural heritage, and living Hakka traditions, making it an unforgettable cultural journey.

?️ Quick Facts

?️ Major Attractions

The Yongding Tulou Scenic Area is mainly composed of the famous “Three Clusters and Two Buildings”. Must-see highlights include:

Hongkeng Tulou Cluster (Hakka Folk Culture Village)

• Zhencheng Lou – Known as the “Prince of Tulou,” designed in Bagua layout with a unique official-hat shape.
• Fuyu Lou – A mansion-style “Five Phoenix Tulou,” elegant and majestic.
• Kuiju Lou – A palace-style square Tulou built in 1834.
• Rusheng Lou – A “mini round Tulou” with a diameter of only 8 meters.

Gaobei Tulou Cluster (Tulou King Scenic Area)

• Chengqi Lou – The “King of Tulou,” the largest, four concentric rings, built over 83 years.
• Wuyun Lou – Built during Ming Dynasty, the oldest in the area.
• Shize Lou – A square Tulou next to Chengqi Lou.
• Qiaofu Lou – Nicknamed “Doctor’s Tulou” as many scholars emerged from here.

Chuxi Tulou Ancient Village

Composed of 5 round and 31 square Tulou, nestled in the mountains, famous for Jiqing Lou, the oldest and most unique circular Tulou, built without iron nails and with 72 stairways.

Nanshi Tulou Valley

Stretching over 10 km with hundreds of Tulou in various shapes (round, square, octagonal, D-shaped), resembling a “Tulou Great Wall.” Notable: Zhenfu Lou, twin sister of Zhencheng Lou.

? Cultural Experiences

• Intangible Heritage Performances: Hakka puppet shows, lion dances, drum performances, and Ten Music Ensemble.
• Folk Customs: Traditional weddings, dragon and lion dances.
• Hakka Spirit: Inspiring family mottos and ancestral traditions inside the Tulou.
• Digital Tourism: Immersive light shows such as “Echoes of Tulou” and themed homestays.

? Food & Local Products

Must-try Dishes:

• Yongding Beef Banquet – Famous for its rich flavors.
• Hakka specialties – Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables, Taro Dumplings, Beef Balls, Pickled Duck Feet.
• Traditional Tulou Banquets – Tulou Fortune Feast, Hakka Tulou Banquet.

Souvenirs: Dried vegetables, bamboo shoots, persimmon cakes, Hakka rice wine, ginger candy, tea sets, handicrafts.

? Travel Information

• Transportation: Self-driving is the most flexible. Shuttle buses are available from Longyan and Xiamen.
• Accommodation: Stay overnight in a Tulou homestay or hotels in Yongding/Longyan.
• Tips: Hire a guide for deeper insights, respect local residents, prepare for sun in summer and cold in winter.

?️ Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Highlights

Morning at Hongkeng Cluster (Zhencheng Lou, Fuyu Lou, Kuiju Lou, Rusheng Lou). Afternoon at Gaobei Cluster (Chengqi Lou, Wuyun Lou, Shize Lou, Qiaofu Lou). Evening: optional night show.

2-Day Cultural Exploration

• Day 1: Hongkeng + Gaobei Tulou, overnight in a Tulou homestay.
• Day 2: Visit Chuxi Tulou Village and Nanshi Valley, optional hot spring experience.

? Final Thoughts

The Fujian Tulou Yongding Scenic Area is more than just ancient architecture—it’s a living museum of Hakka culture, a symbol of harmony between people and community. If you’re passionate about architecture, history, or folk traditions, spending 1–2 days here will be a journey into the heart of Hakka heritage.