First time in Fujian? Discover ancient dwellings!
by MIA STEWART
Dec 16, 2024
 If you're visiting the Fujian Tulou for the first time and want to experience a less crowded, off-the-beaten-path, and authentic destination, Chuxi Tulou is the place for you. The experience is amazing!
🍃 When you first arrive at Chuxi Tulou, the surroundings are so quiet that it feels like time has stopped. All you can hear is the sound of the stream and the occasional crowing of roosters and barking of dogs.
☀️ The core tulou are large and well-preserved, and there are still villagers living there. New and old coexist. New houses are being built, elderly people are playing cards on small benches, and children are going to school. It's a real village nestled in the mountains, full of life.
The original meaning of "Chuxi" includes deer attracting hunters and then hiding in the deep forest, making it feel like a village protected by spirits. 🌈
📸 Apart from a few shops at the village entrance parking lot, the entire village is basically not in business. Only the old man sitting at the tulou entrance invites you to have tea. It's very simple and authentic!
⛺ [Must-visit attractions]:
🎋 There is a 600-year-old ancient tulou here - Jiqing Lou, which is also one of the larger tulou in the village. It has four floors, and visitors can freely go up and down. There are almost no tourists in the village, and climbing Jiqing Lou feels like having the place to yourself. You can take photos of tulou like those in "Big Fish & Begonia" in no time.
🛖 Jiqing Lou is now uninhabited, but at its peak, it housed more than 500 families. Although this grand tulou is now dormant, walking on it and listening to the creaking floorboards, you can still imagine the lively scenes of the past.
🔍 There is a viewing platform in the village where you can overlook the entire tulou cluster. It takes 10 minutes to climb up. You may come across a surprising little village with chickens and ducks running freely. 🦆🐓
🍩 [Must-try food]:
👉 Hakka stuffed tofu: The aroma of tofu is rich, and it carries the wisdom and emotions of the Hakka people. Stuffed tofu, with its unique production process and deep cultural heritage, embodies the wisdom and emotions of the Hakka people. The perfect level of saltiness adds a rich layer and taste experience to this dish.
👉 Ai ban: The aroma of mugwort is overflowing, a blend of tradition and nature. The combination of glutinous rice and mugwort creates a soft and fragrant taste, full of Hakka style and simple flavor!
👉 Hakka lei cha: Mainly popular in the Hakka areas of southern China. It is made by grinding tea leaves, ginger, and raw coix seeds into powder, adding mint, pennywort, perilla, and other ingredients, and then mixing with hot water. It not only has a strong flavor and good color but also refreshes the mind and clears the eyes!
🧡 [Tips]:
Respect the environment, do not litter, and protect this beautiful land.
We hope you have an unforgettable journey in the ancient village of Chuxi Tulou!
Post by MIA STEWART | Dec 16, 2024












