Chengqi Building

Introducing Chengqi Building

Chengqi Tower, the king of earth buildings, is located in Gaobei Village, Gaotou Township, Yongding District, Longyan City, Fujian Province. Legend has it that its foundation stone was broken during the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty and its construction was completed during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, spanning three generations and half a century. Its massive scale, unique shape, and antique charm imbue it with a rich, rural atmosphere.

"Four stories high, four circles of buildings, four hundred rooms up and down; circles within circles, circles within circles, through three hundred years of vicissitudes." In 1986, China's Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications issued a set of stamps dedicated to "Chinese Folk Houses." Among the stamps, the one-yuan stamp depicts a Fujian folk house, a ring of interconnected earthen buildings. This building is the now-famous Chengqi Tower, a castle—a family city. Stamps are a nation's "calling card," with far-reaching influence. It was through this tiny stamp that the vast Chengqi Tower became known worldwide.

Chengqi Tower houses dozens of plaques inscribed by Lin Sen, then-President of the Nationalist Government, and others. The most precious item is the nanmu longevity screen. This rare treasure was presented by the imperial court's ministers and imperial scholars in Beijing in 1754, the 70th birthday of Jiang Jianyong, the second son of Jiang Jicheng, the founder of Chengqi Tower. The screen is composed of 12 connected nanmu panels and covers an area of ​​15.03 square meters. A large carving depicts "Guo Ziyi Paying Homage to His Birthday" in the center of the front, flanked by "The Twenty-Four Filial Exemplars" and "The Four Seasons." The carvings depict 187 figures, from the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers, civil and military officials, to ordinary people, each one vividly and vividly brought to life.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

7:00-19:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Chengqi Building

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chengqi Building is a classic example of Fujian Tulou, a traditional earthen structure built by the Hakka people. It is a masterpiece of communal living architecture, recognized for its unique design and cultural significance, reflecting the Hakka people's values of self-sufficiency and security.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chengqi Building is located in the Nanjing County of Longyan, Fujian Province. You can reach it by taxi, or by taking a bus from the Longyan city center. The site is not close to a metro, but there are transportation options like taxis and buses available from nearby areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Chengqi Building is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the morning hours on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Chengqi Building is approximately 50-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the building. It's best to arrive early to avoid long lines.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons, booking a few days in advance is recommended to avoid waiting in line.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Chengqi Building, depending on your interest in the history and architecture of the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The unique round shape of the building, which is a remarkable feature of Fujian Tulou.
• The inner courtyards and rooms where the Hakka community lived and worked.
• The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the building.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available for rent at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The upper levels of the building offer fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and other Tulou buildings.
• The central courtyard is a great spot for capturing the unique architectural layout of the building.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the outer walls of the building, then head towards the inner courtyards. Finally, climb to the top for the best panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Chengqi Building does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available during certain cultural festivals or holidays, so it is advisable to check in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The building can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are restrooms and basic facilities near the entrance of the building.
• A small shop selling souvenirs and local snacks is available near the site.
• It is recommended to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to stay for a longer period.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Chengqi Building is not fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues due to its steep stairways. However, the ground level and some areas around the building can be accessed by elderly and children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash payments are accepted, but mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local eateries serving traditional Fujian cuisine near the site.
• For more dining options, you can head to the nearby town center of Longyan for a wider selection of restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants, though vegan and halal food may be limited. It is best to ask the staff for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near the site.
• For more upscale accommodations, you can find hotels in Longyan city, which is about 1-2 hours away by taxi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The nearby Fujian Tulou Cluster offers more Tulou buildings to explore.
• The scenic areas around Longyan, such as the Yongding Earth Tower, are also great options for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around the building sell traditional Hakka handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, and local snacks. You can also find miniature models of the Tulou buildings.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxis and local buses are available for transport to other nearby attractions.
• If traveling back to Longyan, buses and taxis are your best options for onward transportation.