Taxia Village in Nanjing County, Zhangzhou
Taxia Village (塔下村) is an administrative village located in Shuyang Town (书洋镇), Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市), Fujian Province (福建省), China. It is a traditional Chinese village that has been preserved in its original state, representing the culture and history of the Hakka (客家) people. The village is situated in the western part of Shuyang Town, covering an area of 5.68 square kilometers.
Taxia Village is a typical Hakka settlement built in the unique “Taiji” (太极) layout, nestled between mountains and water, embodying the harmonious relationship between human beings and nature. It is an important site for studying the history and evolution of Fujian Tulou (福建土楼) and rammed-earth building techniques. The village is home to national cultural heritage sites, including Deyuantang (德远堂) and Shilongqi (石龙旗), as well as traditional customs like the “Spring Festival Ritual” and “Making Great Fortune,” all reflecting the deep-rooted connection between Hakka culture and Central Plains (中原) traditions. These elements make Taxia Village a valuable cultural and historical asset.
In December 2016, Taxia Village was included in the Fourth Batch of Chinese Traditional Villages by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Ministry of Culture, National Heritage Administration, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Land and Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Tourism Administration. In January 2019, it was selected as one of the 7th Batch of Chinese Historical and Cultural Villages, and in August 2020, it became one of the Second Batch of National Key Rural Tourism Villages.
History
Ming and Qing Dynasties
During the Ming Dynasty (明代) and Qing Dynasty (清代), Taxia Village was part of the Jurenli (居仁里) of Nanjing County. The first ancestor of the Zhang (张) family, Zhang Huasun (张化孙), migrated to Fujian. In 1426 (the first year of the Xuande reign), he and his descendants founded the village. Later, as the Hakka people spread, they named the village “Taxia” (塔下) in memory of their ancestors, as “Tasha” (踏下) in Hakka dialect sounds similar to “Taxia.”
In 1631 (the fourth year of the Chongzhen reign), the village built the Fuxinglou (福兴楼), and over time, it constructed 42 Tulou (土楼). However, due to geographical limitations, the Zhang family began building smaller single-courtyard wooden and brick stilt houses along the creek, creating a landscape with a combination of larger and smaller buildings.
Republic of China and Modern Era
In the early years of the Republic of China, Taxia Village was part of the San Tuan District of Nanjing County. After 1949, it belonged to the Fifth District, Qujiang Township (曲江乡). In 1958, Qujiang and Shuyang merged into the Shuyang People’s Commune, and Taxia Village became part of the Taxia Brigade (塔下大队). In 1984, the village was reorganized as Taxia Village Committee (村委会), and in 1989, it became part of Shuyang Town.
Geographical Environment
Location
Taxia Village is situated in the southwestern part of Nanjing County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province. The village is accessible via County Road 562 (Meita Line) and is approximately 15 kilometers from Shuyang Town and 55 kilometers from Nanjing County. It is bordered to the north by Qujiang Village (曲江村), to the west by Wenfeng Village (文峰村), to the south by Xiabanliao (下版寮), and to the east by Nannou Village (南欧村).
Climate
Taxia Village is located in a subtropical maritime monsoon climate zone, transitioning from the central subtropical to the southern subtropical climate. The region enjoys mild winters and cool summers, with an average annual temperature of 21°C and an average annual rainfall of 1700mm. The abundant rainfall is critical for the village’s agricultural activities.
Terrain
Taxia Village is located in the southern section of Boping Mountain (博平岭). It is surrounded by tall mountains to the east and west, with a stream running through the middle of the village. The average elevation of the village is approximately 565 meters above sea level.
Natural Resources
Taxia Village is known for its agricultural production, especially tea (茶叶), persimmons (红柿), and bamboo (毛竹). It is a well-known tea-producing region in Zhangzhou and serves as a base for persimmon production.
Village Features
Location Philosophy
The village is strategically located with mountains surrounding it and water flowing through it. The terrain is flat, and the surrounding mountains offer protection. The village layout is a perfect representation of the harmonious balance between nature and human settlements, featuring four key elements:
Hidden: Surrounded by dense forests and high mountains, the village is secluded from the outside world.
Mountain: The nearby high mountains and valleys provide abundant natural resources, particularly wood for construction.
Water: The creek running through the village ensures ample water supply for irrigation and daily use. The creek flows from south to north, creating a tranquil environment with scenic views.
Field: The village is located in a flat area at the foot of the mountains, providing fertile land for agriculture. Over time, the villagers have cultivated nearly all the land, reflecting their hardworking and innovative spirit.
Spatial Layout
The village follows the winding shape of the creek, with buildings primarily lining both sides of the stream. The Yude Lou (裕德楼) and Shunchang Lou (顺昌楼), two round towers, are located on either side of the creek. The arrangement of these buildings, along with the creek, symbolizes the “Taiji” (太极) form, and as a result, Taxia Village is also known as the “Taiji Water Village” (太极水乡).
Economy and Society
Population
As of March 2020, the registered population of Taxia Village is 1,600 people, with the same number of permanent residents. The majority of the population is Han Chinese (汉族).
Economy
In 2010, Taxia Village received 1.28 million tourists, generating over 78 million RMB in tourism revenue. The per capita annual income of the villagers reached 7,481 RMB. The main industries in the village include tourism, services, and agriculture. In 2020, the collective annual income of the village was 746,800 RMB, with the per capita income increasing to 9,049 RMB.
Major Attractions
Deyuantang (德远堂)
Deyuantang is a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, making it one of the most complete ancient ancestral halls of Chinese surnames still in existence. Built in the 25th year of the Qianlong reign (1760), it was renovated several times during the Qing Dynasty, including in 1850, 1898, 1928, 1941, 1977, and 1993. The current structure retains the classic Qing Dynasty style.
Deyuantang is situated on the eastern slope of the village, facing the stream and backed by a lush green mountain. The building follows a “two-entry” architectural style. On either side of the large entrance stand massive stone drums, carved with figures of the 24 filial piety figures from traditional Chinese tales. The roof features colorful porcelain tile mosaics depicting historical figures from the “Three Kingdoms” (三国志), “Eight Immortals” (八仙), “Investiture of the Gods” (封神榜), as well as mythical animals like dragons, tigers, lions, and phoenixes, along with flowers like peonies, camellias, orchids, and chrysanthemums.
The central beam of the main hall bears a quote by Zhu Xi (朱熹):
“Although the descendants may be foolish, they must not neglect reading poetry and books; although ancestors are distant, they must sincerely offer sacrifices.”
On the red columns of the hall are couplets by Zhang Ao (张翱), which are derived from the history of the Zhang family:
“From the great scholar Xuanyuan, the name was passed down; three heroes of the Han Dynasty were honored, and five fierce generals were bestowed with titles…”
In front of the hall is a crescent-shaped pond, with 24 towering stone flagpoles (石龙旗杆) standing on either side, each over 10 meters tall. These flagpoles are the largest collection of such flags in China and are a rare feature. The poles were originally erected to celebrate achievements in the imperial examinations. The size and design of the poles varied depending on the individual’s rank and whether they were civil or military officials.
At the back of Deyuantang lies a scenic forest, adding to the tranquil and reflective atmosphere of this historical site.
Shilongqi (石龙旗杆)
Shilongqi is the largest collection of stone dragon flagpoles in any Chinese surname ancestral hall. These flagpoles were erected to celebrate family members who passed the imperial examinations, each one a symbol of the family’s pride and scholarly tradition. The flagpoles are placed in a crescent-shaped pond in front of Deyuantang. The flagpoles vary in height, base style, and carvings based on the rank and profession of the individual they honor.
The first stone flagpole was erected in 1772 (the 37th year of the Qianlong reign). Over time, a total of 14 flagpoles were installed before the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and 10 more were added starting in 1978. The most recent, erected in 2012, was dedicated to a philanthropist who had lived in Thailand. These flagpoles have become a symbol of the Zhang family’s respect for education and tradition.
Historical Significance of Taxia Village
Taxia Village’s cultural heritage, represented by Deyuantang and Shilongqi, stands as a testament to the Hakka (客家) people’s adherence to and inheritance of Central Plains (中原) culture. The village’s architectural layout and traditions offer valuable insights into the migration history of the Han people (汉族) as well as the evolution of Hakka culture over time.
Historical Figures
Zhang Rongting (张荣汀)
Born in 1896 during the Qing Dynasty, Zhang Rongting was a prominent Hakka entrepreneur from Taxia Village. He played a key role in developing the tea industry in Nanjing County (南靖县) and founded the Qujiang Middle School (曲江中学). Despite his humble beginnings, Zhang moved to Southeast Asia where he built a successful tea business, particularly in Singapore and Malaysia. After making his fortune, he contributed greatly to his hometown, providing funds and sharing his knowledge to improve the local tea industry.
In 1946, Zhang donated 150,000 RMB to the local educational foundation in Taxia Village. He also played an instrumental role in the promotion of tea cultivation, importing tea seedlings from Anxi (安溪), one of China’s major tea-producing regions.
Traditional Customs
Hakka Puppet Show (客家术偶戏)
The Hakka Puppet Show (客家木偶戏) is a traditional cultural art that originated in the Baisha (白沙) town of Shanghang County (上杭县). Over time, it spread to other regions including Nanjing County (南靖县). In Taxia Village, this folk art is well-preserved and has become a part of the community’s heritage. The puppet shows are regularly performed during festivals and are an important part of local cultural celebrations.
Marriage Customs (婚嫁)
Marriage is considered one of the most important life events in Taxia Village. The wedding ceremony is a formal, meticulous process involving several stages:
Matchmaking: A matchmaker arranges for the couple to meet, with the groom bringing gifts and a “face money” (面花钱) as a token of respect.
Betrothal: If both parties agree, the groom visits the bride’s family to formalize the engagement and offer gifts to secure the union.
Wedding Day: On the selected wedding day, the groom’s family decorates their house, and the bride is escorted by a “flower sedan chair” (花桥) to the groom’s home.
Return to the Bride’s Family: After the wedding, the bride returns to her parents’ house on a designated day, marking the “first visit to the family” (头转客).
Funerary Customs (丧葬)
Death and burial are solemn events in the village. The funeral process includes several steps:
Washing the Body: After a person passes away, the family burns incense and prepares the deceased for burial.
Consulting the Feng Shui Master: A Feng Shui master (风水先生) is invited to determine the appropriate time for the burial.
Funeral Service: A procession takes place, and the deceased is escorted to their final resting place.
Ceremonial Offerings: After the burial, family and friends gather to offer food and prayers, ensuring the deceased’s spirit finds peace.
Festival Celebrations (节庆)
Taxia Village celebrates several important festivals throughout the year:
Chinese New Year (春节): A time for family reunions, preparations begin in December, with the entire village involved in the celebrations.
Lantern Festival (元宵节): Celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, villagers gather at Deyuantang for traditional activities, including puppet shows and fireworks.
Spring Festival Ritual (春祭): Held in February, this ritual involves honoring ancestors and praying for prosperity.
Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节): Villagers share mooncakes and pray for a good harvest during this festival.
Educational Tradition (尚学文化)
Taxia Village has a long-standing tradition of valuing education. The 16th-generation ancestor, Jiacheng Gong (嘉程公), established Wenxuan Lou (文选楼) to promote learning and create an environment conducive to studying. The village has a history of producing educated scholars, with many villagers attending universities abroad.
Intangible Cultural Heritage
Hakka Earth Building Construction Technique (客家土楼营造技艺)
Taxia Village is home to the Hakka Earth Building Construction Technique, which is part of the third batch of China’s national intangible cultural heritage. The construction of the earth buildings (土楼) involves a meticulous process, including the preparation of special clay and the application of various natural materials to reinforce the walls. The earth buildings are often circular or square and can rise up to five stories, with thick outer walls designed for defense.
Local Products and Cuisine
Local Products
Taxia Village (塔下村) is home to the first tea plantation in Nanjing County (南靖县), and it produces a variety of teas. The village is also abundant in citrus fruits, persimmons, plums, and other fruits. Taxia Village boasts over 2,000 acres of tea plantations and nearly 1,000 acres of fruit orchards, with an annual tea production of 125,000 kilograms and over 500,000 kilograms of fresh fruits.
Among the tea varieties, Taxia is known for producing Anxi Tieguanyin (安溪铁观音), Mao Xie (毛蟹), Mei Jian (梅尖), and Oolong (乌龙). Each year, its refined Tieguanyin tea is exported to Singapore. In Singapore, Taxia’s Tieguanyin tea is renowned for its “seven brews with lasting fragrance,” a reputation that reflects its premium quality.
Local Cuisine
Taxia Village is known for its variety of traditional foods. Some of the most popular dishes include:
Persimmon Cake (柿饼): Made from ripe persimmons, the skin is peeled off, and the fruit is dried in the sun during the day and exposed to dew at night. After about a month, the persimmons are placed on a mat and left to dry for another month, transforming them into a sweet, chewy persimmon cake.
Spring Rolls (润饼): These are especially popular during the Qingming Festival and are widely enjoyed in Fujian, Chaozhou, and Taiwan. The spring roll wrapper is made from flour and baked into a thin sheet. The fillings vary, including shredded carrots, shredded meat, fried oysters, cilantro, peas, bean sprouts, tofu, fish balls, shrimp, diced meat, fried egg strips, deep-fried seaweed, crushed peanuts, fried noodles, and garlic.
Hakka Red Braised Pork (客家红烧肉): A staple dish on the Hakka family’s festive table. This dish is known for its vibrant red color, tender fat, and aromatic flavor. The braised pork is fragrant but not greasy, and the savory sauce is often used to mix with noodles.
Stuffed Tofu (酿豆腐): A famous Hakka dish also known as Dongjiang Stuffed Tofu (东江酿豆腐). It involves deep-fried tofu or white tofu cut into small pieces, hollowed out, and filled with a mixture of minced meat, mushrooms, and garlic. The tofu is then simmered slowly in a clay pot. The dish is usually served with seasoning like MSG and pepper.
Five-Spiced Rolls (五香卷): A traditional dish in Fujian. These rolls are a must-have during festivals, weddings, and other celebrations. Made with bean curd skin, the rolls are filled with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. After wrapping, they are deep-fried to a golden brown and served with dipping sauce. The rolls are fragrant, crispy, and delicious.
Honors and Recognition
In 2007, Taxia Village was included in the “Chinese Scenic Villages” list for its historical charm, beautiful landscapes, clear waters, and simple rural culture.
In December 2016, Taxia Village was added to the fourth batch of traditional Chinese villages by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Ministry of Culture, National Heritage Administration, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Land and Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Tourism Administration.
In January 2019, Taxia Village was selected as one of the seventh batch of Chinese Historical and Cultural Villages (中国历史文化名村).
On August 26, 2020, Taxia Village was included in the second batch of Key Rural Tourism Villages in China (全国乡村旅游重点村).
Travel Information
Transportation
Taxia Village is located in the western part of Shuyang Town (书洋镇), Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou (漳州市), Fujian Province (福建省). The route to the village is as follows: Starting from Nanjing County, travel through Nankeng Town (南坑镇), Shipyard Town (船厂镇), Shuyang Town (书洋镇), and Qujiang (曲江), then arrive at Taxia Village (塔下村).
Guide
Parking Lot at the Entrance of the Village
Shunqing Tower (顺庆楼)
Dechang Tower (德昌楼)
Yinan Tower (倚南楼)
Taxia Deyuantang (塔下德远堂)
Shunchang Tower (顺昌楼)
Yude Tower (裕德楼)
Zhenyuan Tower (振源楼)
Tourism Service Center (旅游服务中心)
Hexing Tower (和兴楼)
Sanba Tower (三巴楼)
Daba Natural Village Parking Lot (大坝自然村停车场)
How to Get There
To reach Taxia Village, you can take a bus or hire a private car from Nanjing County. The village is located about 20 km from the county, and the route passes through several towns before reaching the village.
By Car: The most convenient way to reach the village is by car. You can rent a car or hire a local driver for a scenic trip through the area.
By Public Transport: There are buses that pass through Nankeng, Shipyard, Shuyang, and Qujiang, which will take you near Taxia Village. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the entrance.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Taxia Village is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is most beautiful. Tea harvest season, usually in late spring and early summer, is also a great time to visit if you want to experience the tea-making process.
Respect Local Customs: The Hakka people of Taxia place great importance on respect for elders and traditional family values. When visiting local homes or participating in community events, always be respectful of these customs.
Stay Hydrated: The subtropical climate in Taxia Village can get quite hot, especially in the summer. Be sure to carry water and wear comfortable clothing to stay cool.
Explore on Foot: Taxia Village is best explored by walking. The village offers beautiful views and traditional Hakka houses, and walking will allow you to experience the community’s charm at a leisurely pace.
Tea Shopping: If you are a tea lover, be sure to purchase some of Taxia’s famous Tieguanyin tea. It is known for its high quality, and you can even find varieties that are exported internationally.
