Daimei Ancient Houses

Introducing Daimei Ancient Houses

Located in the lower reaches of the Jiulongnan River in Dongyuan Town, Longhai City, Fujian Province, Daimei Village is surrounded by water and is known as an "ancient village on the water." The village, home to numerous ancient houses, is a prominent example of Fujian red brick architectural culture and has been designated a Fujian Provincial and National Famous Historical and Cultural Village. Entering Daimei Village, one is struck by the classic Southern Fujian architectural style of red brick tiles, off-white walls, and swallow-tail slats. In recent years, the local government has continuously strengthened its conservation and environmental improvements, and has vigorously developed rural tourism. This legendary ancient village, nestled amidst the lush green mountains and waters of Southern Fujian, has shone with even greater beauty.

Climate and best time to travel

South subtropical monsoon;

Suitable all year round

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Daimei Ancient Houses

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

Daimei Ancient Houses (埭美古民居群) is located in Dongyuan Town, Longhai District, Zhangzhou, Fujian. The village was established in the Jingtai period of the Ming Dynasty (~1450 AD), giving it over 560 years of history. It is the largest and best-preserved ancient residential complex in southern Fujian, known for its uniform architectural style in red brick, hard mountain roofs with swallowtail ridges, and grid layout. The village is often called “the No.1 Village in Southern Fujian” and compared to “Minnan Zhouzhuang” (“Minnan water town”) because of its waterways and setting.

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

• It is in Dongyuan Town, Longhai District, Zhangzhou City, Fujian, on a delta between the Jiulong River and Nanxi River.
• It is about 2 km from the Shenhai Expressway Zhangzhou Port exit.
• Most visitors drive or take a car/taxi from Zhangzhou, Xiamen, or nearby cities; public transport to Dongyuan exists, but direct public transport into the village is limited.
• Once at the village, walking is the main mode to move between houses and waterways.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• The village is open year-round, 24/7 (public, free entry).
• Recommended visit duration is 0.5 to 1 day.
• Best times: spring to autumn, especially when weather is mild and light is favorable. Early morning or late afternoon gives better lighting and fewer tourists. (Inferred from architectural photography guidance)

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

Entry is free for basic access. There may be small fees for rooftop access in some houses (e.g. ~¥5).

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

No, advance booking is not necessary due to free entry. For rooftop access or guided tours, you may coordinate with a local guide or homestay owner on arrival. (Inferred from free entry status)

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A half day (3–4 hours) is sufficient to walk through major alleys, explore houses, and enjoy scenic water views; full day if combining photography, rest, and tours.

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

• Row upon row of red brick ancient houses, many in Ming and Qing eras (49 of them).
• The inner waterway loop (the river that encircles the village) giving the impression of a village floating on water.
• Typical swallowtail ridged roofs, uniform house heights and orientation.
• Rooftop/terrace vantage houses that allow aerial views of the layout.

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

Guided tour options may exist through local travel agencies (especially for private tours). No evidence of official audio guides in English is found.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From rooftop terraces or accessible upper floors overlooking rows of houses.
• Along the waterway wrapping around the village, capturing reflections.
• At the entrance facing the village front row, especially at dawn or dusk. (Travel reviews often note this)

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter via the main gate → walk the main axial alley roughly east-west → detour into side alleys to see interior courtyards → access rooftop/terrace where allowed → circle the water channel around the village → return via another alley to view contrasting old & new houses.

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

No prominent night lighting shows are documented. The village remains open at night, but most buildings close and activity slows. (Given 24/7 free entry but no mention of night programs)

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

It is relatively low-crowd even on weekends, though holidays may bring more people. Travel reviews note few visitors even on weekends. Weekdays and early mornings are best for peaceful experience.

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

• Free parking lot at the entrance.
• Small vendors and snack stalls inside village (local snacks, tea) per reviews.
• Some houses may allow terrace access for a fee (small internal fee).
• Benches and resting spots in alleys; public restrooms likely at entrance or near central area (common in such village sites). (Inferred)

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

Paths are mostly flat but narrow alleys and door thresholds may pose barrier for wheelchairs. Elderly and children should proceed with care. Rooftop access may involve stairs. (Inferred constraints)

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since entry is free, main cash needs are for rooftop fees or local purchase. Local shops may accept mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay) but it’s wise to carry small cash. (Common practice in rural areas)

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries near Dongyuan town and small food stalls in the village offering Fujian/minnan snacks and refreshments. Reviews mention mochi, braised noodles, pot edge, local tea shops.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options (vegetables, tofu) are available in local eateries. Halal options are rare, so planning ahead is advisable. (Inferred)

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and homestays in Dongyuan or near the village entrance serve visitors. Travel packages often include transport from Xiamen or Zhangzhou.

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

You can combine visit to the Zhangzhou Coastal Volcano National Geopark (coastal volcano geology park) in the same trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, postcards, traditional Minnan-style decorative items, small wood carvings or local specialty food (snacks, tea). (Based on typical rural ancient village offerings)

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

Return by car/taxi to Zhangzhou or onward to Xiamen, or combine with other Fujian coastal sites. Many tours link Daimei with volcano park and other regional attractions.