Hongkeng Tulou Cluster

What are the most recommended things to do in Hongkeng Tulou Cluster?

  • Explore the unique circular and rectangular Hakka Tulou buildings, some over 700 years old.
  • Learn about traditional Hakka architecture and communal living.
  • Take guided tours of select Tulou interiors to see local customs and artifacts.
  • Photography of the iconic Tulou clusters and surrounding countryside.
  • Walk or hike through the scenic village paths connecting the Tulou buildings.
  • Engage with local villagers and experience Hakka culture and cuisine.

Introducing Hongkeng Tulou Cluster

The Hongkeng Tulou complex, known as the Yongding Hongkeng Hakka Tulou Folk Culture Village, is located in Yongding County, Fujian Province, surrounded by mountains. The clear, lively, and winding Hongchuan Creek flows through the village. The village embodies the essence of Yongding Tulou. Visitors can also enjoy Hakka dragon dances, weddings, Hakka folk songs, and leaf-blowing performances, showcasing local customs.

This ordinary natural village is renowned for its surviving over 30 Hakka earth buildings of varying sizes and shapes. Among them are the magnificent Zhencheng Tower, known as the "Prince of Earth Buildings," the smallest "pocket-sized round building," the Rusheng Tower, the Potala Palace-like Kuiju Tower, the mansion-like Fuyu Tower, and the thickest-walled Yangyang Tower.

Zhencheng Tower, known as the "Prince of Earth Buildings", is the most magnificent one in the scenic area. There are also Kuiju Tower, a palace-style earth building in the style of the Potala Palace, Fuyu Tower, a classic of the Wufeng Tower and an outstanding representative of the Yongding mansion-style earth building, and Rusheng Tower, known as the "pocket earth building". They are arranged in a staggered manner along the stream and blend in with the green mountains, green waters, and lush bamboo countryside.

Climate and best time to travel

Yongding County has a mid-subtropical marine monsoon climate, which is characterized by moist and mild weather, long summers without extreme heat, and short winters without severe cold.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tickets

90 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

7:00-19:00


Most Popular FAQs for Hongkeng Tulou Cluster

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

Hongkeng Tulou Cluster is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fujian Tulou, traditional Hakka earthen buildings built between the 12th and 20th centuries. They served as communal homes and defensive structures, reflecting Hakka social organization, architectural ingenuity, and cultural heritage.

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

Located in Hongkeng village, Yongding District, Longyan, Fujian. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Longyan city center. Walking or short local transport may be needed to reach individual Tulou buildings.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours are typically 8:00–17:30. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.

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

Entrance fee is around 60–80 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased onsite or through authorized online booking platforms.

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

Booking is recommended during weekends and public holidays. 1–2 days in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours to explore the main Tulou cluster, walk the village paths, and take photos. Longer if visiting multiple clusters or hiking nearby trails.

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

  • Chengqi Lou – the “King of Tulou” and largest building in the cluster.
  • Yongding Hongkeng Tulou cluster – notable circular and square Tulou.
  • Central courtyards showing communal life.
  • Surrounding rice paddies and hillside viewpoints.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; some English guides may be available by prior arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Elevated paths overlooking the circular Tulou clusters.
  • Main courtyards inside select Tulou buildings.
  • Surrounding countryside for panoramic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start at the visitor center or main entrance.
  • Visit the largest Tulou (Chengqi Lou) first.
  • Follow village paths to explore smaller Tulou buildings.
  • Return via a scenic trail to capture landscape views.

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

Night visits are generally not permitted. Special cultural events may occur occasionally, check locally.

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

Less crowded on weekdays outside major holidays. Peak tourist season is spring, summer, and national holidays.

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

Facilities include public toilets, rest areas, small cafes, and souvenir shops near main clusters.

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

Some buildings and pathways have stairs and uneven terrain. Elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance; children should be supervised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is useful for smaller shops; major payments, including tickets, often accept mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries offer Hakka cuisine and simple meals. Some Tulou clusters have small cafes and snack vendors.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; halal options are limited and may require planning in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, small hotels, and homestays are available in Hongkeng village or nearby Longyan city.

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

  • Gaobei Tulou Cluster
  • Hakka cultural museums in Yongding
  • Nearby scenic hiking trails and countryside villages

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Hakka handicrafts, miniature Tulou models, local tea, and postcards.

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

Taxi or private car back to Longyan city. Local buses connect to other Tulou clusters or nearby cultural sites.