Gaobei Tulou Cluster

Introducing Gaobei Tulou Cluster

The Gaobei Tulou Cluster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fujian Tulou, is located in Gaobei Village, Gaotou Township, Yongding County. Dozens of these buildings are scattered across the hillsides and waterfront, each one a different height. The Wuyun Tower, built in the Ming Dynasty without a stone foundation, speaks to the rich history of the tulou, while the elegant Qiaofu Tower showcases the sincere patriotism of those residing overseas.

The complex is spread across 11 natural villages in Gaotou Township, southeast of Yongding County. The scenic area boasts Chengqi Tower, known as the "King of Round Towers," along with the historic Wuyun and Shize Towers, and Qiaofu Tower, also known as the "Doctor's Building." These tulou blend seamlessly with nature, creating a breathtakingly beautiful rural landscape.

Chengqi Tower is the most famous earth building. Built by Jiang Jicheng, the 15th ancestor of the Gaotou Jiang family, it took three years to complete, ending in 1708, the 47th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty. During these three years, the weather was ideal while the walls were being rammed. To thank the heavens for their help, the locals nicknamed it "Tianzhu Tower."

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Gaobei Tulou Cluster

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

Gaobei Tulou Cluster is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of well-preserved Hakka earthen buildings dating back to the 14th century. These tulous served as fortified communal homes, combining residential, defensive, and social functions. They are culturally significant as examples of Hakka communal living and traditional Chinese rural architecture.

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

• Location: Gaobei Tulou Cluster is located in Yongding County, Longyan, Fujian Province, China.
• By air: Fly to Xiamen or Zhangzhou, then take a bus or hire a taxi to Yongding (approximately 2–3 hours).
• By train: Take a train to Longyan Railway Station, then use a taxi or local bus to reach the tulou cluster.
• Walking: Most of the village can be explored on foot once inside the cluster.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for comfortable weather and scenic views.

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

• Entrance fee is around 80–100 RMB per person.
• Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or via Chinese travel platforms.

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

For peak season (holidays and weekends), booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended. For regular weekdays, tickets can be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 2–3 hours to explore the main tulous, courtyards, and surrounding village.

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

• Chengqi Lou, the largest circular tulou known as the “King of Tulou.”
• Interior courtyards showing daily life and communal spaces.
• Traditional Hakka ancestral halls and communal kitchens.
• Surrounding farmland and scenic hill views.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some English-language tours offered through travel agencies. Audio guides may be available in Chinese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• High vantage points overlooking multiple tulou clusters.
• Central courtyards inside the tulous for architectural details.
• Surrounding hills and farmland for panoramic landscape shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance → visit Chengqi Lou → explore surrounding tulous → visit local shops and cafes → end with scenic photography in surrounding hills.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed; there are no light shows, but some cultural performances may be arranged during festivals.

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

• It can be crowded during Chinese public holidays and weekends.
• Weekdays and early mornings offer a quieter experience.

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

• Public toilets are available near main tulous.
• Small restaurants and cafes serve local Hakka dishes.
• Souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and snacks.
• Rest areas and benches are located near main pathways.

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

Accessible for children and elderly with some walking; however, interior staircases in tulous may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted.
• Cash is recommended as backup, especially in small shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Hakka restaurants serving traditional dishes like stuffed tofu and Yongding rice wine.
• Cafes in nearby villages offer light meals and tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options such as vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and rice are available; halal options are limited but may be requested at certain restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses and boutique inns in Gaobei Village.
• Hotels in Yongding Town offer more standard accommodation.
• Some tulou clusters also provide homestay experiences.

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

• Hegui Lou and other nearby tulou clusters.
• Earth Building Museum in Yongding County.
• Scenic countryside routes for walking and cycling tours.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Local handicrafts such as bamboo and wood carvings.
• Hakka-style embroidered fabrics and traditional snacks.
• Miniature tulou models and postcards.

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

• Return to Yongding Town by taxi or local bus.
• From Yongding, take a train or bus to Longyan, Zhangzhou, or Xiamen.
• Car rentals are convenient for exploring nearby tulou clusters and rural areas.