Yongding Tulou

Introducing Yongding Tulou

Yongding Tulou are located in Yongding District, Longyan City, Fujian Province, on China's southeast coast. The oldest of these is the Fuxin Tower. Located in Xiazhai Village, Hulei Town, Fuxin Tower is the oldest extant Tulou in Fujian Province, having been built in 769 AD, giving it a history of over 1,200 years.

Yongding Tulou boasts a wide variety of styles and forms, divided into two main systems: square and round. Yongding is known as a Chinese Hakka Tulou Museum without gates. Among the numerous Tulou, the most representative are the Five Phoenix Tower, the large square tower, and the round tower. The Yongding Tulou are truly unique and magical mountain dwellings, a remarkable gem of ancient Chinese architecture. In July 2008, they were inscribed on the World Heritage List.

It was successfully listed as a World Heritage Site in July 2008. In August 2011, it was awarded the title of National 5A Tourist Attraction. In January 2016, it was selected as a "National Advanced Civilized Tourism Unit."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; among the many shapes of earth buildings, round earth buildings are the most magical and charming, and are suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Hongkeng Village has been designated a Chinese Tulou Cultural Tourism Village. In addition to the Zhencheng Tower, a provincially protected cultural relic, other distinctive buildings include the Wufeng Tower, the Fuyu Tower, the palace-like Kuiju Tower, and the smallest Rusheng Tower. The unique square and round tulou, the beautiful Eight Scenic Spots, and the quaint folk customs blend into a magnificent painting, a moving poem, and a beautiful song, captivating and captivating.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

Tulou King 50 yuan/person,

Folk Culture Village 90 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yongding Tulou

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

Yongding Tulou are traditional communal residences of the Hakka people, built from the 12th to 20th centuries. They are UNESCO World Heritage sites, notable for their unique circular and square structures made of earth, wood, and stone, reflecting the social, defensive, and communal aspects of Hakka life.

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

The tulou clusters are located in Yongding District, Longyan, Fujian Province. Visitors can reach Yongding from Xiamen or Longyan by bus or taxi. Local buses connect major tulou villages, or private cars/taxis are convenient for direct access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typical opening hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are scenic.

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

The entrance fee varies by village, generally 80–100 RMB per adult. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via online travel platforms like Trip.com.

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

Booking in advance is recommended for weekends, holidays, or larger groups, ideally 2–3 days ahead. On weekdays, tickets can often be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the main tulou clusters typically requires 3–5 hours, depending on how many villages are included in the itinerary.

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

• Chengqi Lou (the largest circular tulou).
• Hekeng and Gaobei tulou clusters.
• Interior courtyards and traditional communal spaces.
• Surrounding rice terraces and scenic landscapes.

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

Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese and sometimes in English. Audio guides may be offered in major tulou sites, especially for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Chengqi Lou from nearby hills for aerial shots.
• Sunrise and sunset over circular tulou clusters.
• Inside the tulou courtyards for detailed architectural photography.
• Paths overlooking rice terraces surrounding the villages.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the visitor center or main parking area.
• Visit Chengqi Lou, then explore nearby tulou clusters like Hekeng and Gaobei.
• Walk inside selected tulous to view communal spaces and interiors.
• Finish with a scenic walk through surrounding rice terraces and hills.

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

Night visits are generally not offered, though some villages host special cultural events or festivals during the day that can include performances.

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

The tulou clusters are crowded on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially mornings, are the least crowded times.

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

Basic facilities include public toilets, small food stalls, and souvenir shops at major tulou clusters. Rest areas are available near main entrances.

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

Some tulou sites have uneven floors and stairs, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can access most areas, but supervision is recommended.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used at ticket counters, restaurants, and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries offer Hakka cuisine, including traditional dishes such as stuffed tofu, braised pork, and local rice specialties. Small cafes may be available near main villages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants, while halal options are limited; planning ahead is recommended.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses in Yongding District.
• Yongding Tulou Boutique Hotels.
• Family-run inns near major tulou clusters.

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

• Gaobei Tulou Cluster
• Hekeng Tulou Cluster
• Fujian Tulou Museum in Yongding
• Local tea plantations and countryside trails.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, miniature tulou models, Hakka-themed gifts, and Fujian specialty snacks.

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

Private cars or taxis are the most convenient. Local buses connect to Yongding town, from where visitors can continue to Longyan city or Xiamen for further travel.