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Tianluokeng Village is known for its unique "earth building" architecture, particularly the circular tulou (traditional Hakka dwellings). Visitors can explore the tulou structures, learn about the Hakka culture, and enjoy scenic hikes through the surrounding hills. The village provides excellent photo opportunities, especially the famous "four-dragons" view of the circular buildings. Visitors can also interact with local residents, taste traditional Hakka food, and learn about the rural way of life.
Tianluokeng Village, located in Nanjing County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province, is a village of tulou, a cluster of buildings known as "four dishes and one soup." It comprises five buildings: one square, three round, and one oval. These five buildings are staggered along the mountainside. Surrounded by mountains, from a high vantage point, they resemble a blooming plum blossom dotting the landscape or a flying saucer descending from the sky. The result is a breathtaking fusion of human artistry and natural beauty, a unique gem in the garden of vernacular architecture.
Subtropical monsoon climate
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended place to visit: Tianluokeng Tulou Group
Recommended playing time: 1 hour
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Tianluokeng Village is located in the Fujian province and is home to a unique cluster of tulou, large circular or square earthen buildings that served as communal living spaces for the Hakka people. These structures date back to the Ming Dynasty and have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village is an important example of Hakka architecture and rural life in southern China.
Tianluokeng Village is located in the Yongding district of Fujian Province. The best way to get there is by taking a bus or taxi from Longyan, which is the nearest city. There are also private tours available that include transportation. From Longyan, it takes around 1.5-2 hours to reach Tianluokeng by car or bus.
Tianluokeng Village is open year-round. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surroundings are lush and green. The village can get crowded during national holidays and weekends, so it's recommended to visit on weekdays if possible.
The entrance fee for Tianluokeng Village is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel websites. It is advisable to check for availability and any discounts before visiting.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (such as national holidays) to avoid long queues. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient.
To fully explore Tianluokeng Village and its surroundings, including the tulou structures and scenic areas, 2 to 3 hours is recommended. If you plan to take photos and hike around, you might want to allocate additional time.
The must-see highlights include the "four-dragons" view of the tulou, the large circular tulou buildings, and the surrounding terraced fields. The Tianluokeng tulou complex is the most famous, with stunning views of the earthen buildings and the surrounding rural landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available on request, but it's a good idea to book in advance. Audio guides are also available, though they are typically in Chinese, so a local guide may be more useful for non-Mandarin speakers.
The best photography spot is the viewpoint that overlooks the entire Tianluokeng tulou complex, offering a stunning view of the four circular buildings. Other great spots include the hiking paths surrounding the village, which provide sweeping views of the countryside and terraced fields.
Start by exploring the main tulou buildings in the village center, then take a hike up to the viewpoint for the famous "four-dragons" view. Afterward, visit the smaller tulou in the area, and take time to enjoy the local culture and architecture. End your visit with a meal at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Hakka cuisine.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Tianluokeng Village. The best experience is during daylight hours, as the scenic views and traditional buildings are most visible during the day.
Tianluokeng Village can get crowded, particularly during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available near the entrance. There are also small shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. However, there are limited dining options, so it's a good idea to bring snacks or water if you plan to spend a long time in the village.
The village itself is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and steps. However, children can explore the area with ease. For elderly or disabled visitors, some areas might be challenging, but it is still possible to enjoy the village from the main entrance and certain viewpoints.
Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the ticket booth, shops, and food stalls. Cash may still be accepted in some areas, but it’s recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few small restaurants and food stalls near the village serving traditional Hakka dishes. If you're looking for more options, the nearby city of Longyan offers a wider variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, though vegan options may be limited. Halal food options are rare in the area, but it’s best to check the menu at local eateries before ordering.
There are several guesthouses and hotels near Tianluokeng Village. For more luxurious options, you may need to stay in Longyan city, which has a wider range of hotels and accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Tulou Cluster, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique architecture. The Hakka Earth Building Museum in Longyan is also worth visiting for a deeper understanding of the region's culture.
There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Hakka crafts, such as embroidered goods, tea, and other handmade items. Local specialties like Hakka tea and dried fruits are popular souvenirs to bring home.
After visiting Tianluokeng Village, you can return to Longyan city by taxi or bus. Longyan has good transportation connections to other parts of Fujian province, including rail and bus services to Xiamen and Fuzhou.
