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Zhangzhou Tulou are spread all over the mountainous areas of Nanjing, Hua'an, Pinghe, Zhao'an, Yunxiao and Zhangpu in Zhangzhou City. They are known as "mythical mountain architecture" for their strange shapes and unique styles.
Tulou (earth buildings) are the predecessors of the barracks, castles, and mountain strongholds built during the Tang Dynasty when Chen Yuanguang opened up Zhangzhou. They emerged from the unique social environment of southern Fujian, characterized by the frequent incursions of foreign invaders and internal strife among bandits. Zhangzhou tulou are primarily constructed from raw earth, mixed with lime, fine sand, glutinous rice, brown sugar, bamboo strips, and wooden planks. These structures are repeatedly pounded and compacted, typically three to five stories high. The first floor serves as a kitchen, the second as a warehouse, and the third and subsequent floors as living rooms. They can accommodate 200 to 700 people and offer advantages such as cohesive living, security against theft, earthquakes, beasts, fire, moisture, ventilation, natural light, and warmth in winter and coolness in summer.
Zhangzhou boasts a vast number of tulou, totaling over 800. The oldest is the Qiyun Tower in Shajian Town, Hua'an County, the oldest authentically dated tulou discovered to date, built in 1371 during the fourth year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty. The largest is the Zaitian Tower in Gongpi Township, Zhao'an County, with a diameter of 94.5 meters. It's known as the "Super Tulou." Tulou come in a variety of shapes, including round, square, oval, half-moon, chair, umbrella, windmill, and the Bagua. The most unique is the Tianluokeng Tulou in Shuyang Township, Nanjing County, a magnificent and breathtaking structure comprised of five buildings: one square, one oval, and three circles.
In the subtropical monsoon climate, the earthen buildings are mostly located on slopes close to mountains and rivers or in valleys near streams, or in geographical environments where mountains, water, fields and buildings are in harmony, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Huaiyuan Tower
Huaiyuan Tower, located in Changxiaokanxia Village, Meilin Township, Nanjing County, was built in 1909, the first year of the Xuantong reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is a beautifully constructed, well-preserved, medium-sized garden earth building. It was designated a county-level cultural relic protection site in 1988.
Changyuan Building
Located in Shiqiao Village, Shuyang Township, Nanjing County, Changyuan Tower was built in 1723, the first year of the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is a square-shaped earthen building situated on the bank of a tributary of the Jiulong River's Xixi River, following the slope of the riverbank.
Recommended one-day tour
Line A: 115.00 yuan/person;
Route B: 80.00 yuan/person (Hegui Tower ~ Yunshuiyao Ancient Town ~ Huaiyuan Tower)
08:00-18:00
Zhangzhou Tulou, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, represents an ancient form of communal living developed by the Hakka people. These earthen structures are notable for their architectural ingenuity and cultural importance, serving as fortresses for defense and homes for entire clans over centuries.
Zhangzhou Tulou is located in Nanjing County, Zhangzhou, Fujian Province. To reach the site, you can take a taxi or bus from Zhangzhou city center. It is also accessible via private car or guided tour.
The Zhangzhou Tulou is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends or public holidays.
The entrance fee typically ranges from 30 RMB to 100 RMB depending on the specific Tulou site and the number of sites you wish to visit. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via online platforms, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak travel seasons such as Chinese New Year and national holidays. A few days ahead of time should be sufficient.
Exploring the Zhangzhou Tulou complex typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how many of the sites you wish to visit and how in-depth you wish to explore the culture and architecture.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in English can also be found at most Tulou sites for self-guided exploration.
The best photography spots are around the main round Tulou buildings, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. The surrounding hills and rice terraces also provide beautiful backdrops for photos.
Start your visit by exploring the largest and most famous Tulou, then walk around the other structures to see variations in design. Be sure to take time to enjoy the scenic views and visit any Hakka culture exhibitions for a deeper understanding.
Night visits are not generally available. However, some special tours may offer cultural experiences such as Hakka music or traditional performances, usually during festival seasons.
The site can get crowded, especially during weekends and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during the off-season or on weekdays, preferably early in the morning.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the main Tulou sites. Small food stalls and souvenir shops are also located around the entrance, selling local snacks and handcrafted items.
The Tulou site has some rough terrain, which may not be easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, some areas are accessible by paved paths, and it’s recommended to inquire in advance about accessibility needs.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used at the site. Credit card payment options may be available at larger ticket booths and shops.
There are a few local restaurants offering traditional Hakka dishes near the Tulou complex. In Zhangzhou city, you can find a variety of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to more upscale dining options.
Vegetarian options are available, and some local restaurants may offer halal food. It is advisable to ask in advance, as most restaurants focus on Hakka-style cuisine.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels near the Tulou, as well as some eco-lodges offering a more immersive experience. For more luxury accommodations, Zhangzhou city offers many options.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Hakka-related handicrafts, traditional tea sets, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include handmade pottery, tea, and textiles.
From Zhangzhou, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby attractions, or travel by high-speed train to Xiamen or other cities in Fujian. Renting a car is also a convenient option for those planning to explore more remote areas.
