Zhangzhou Taxia Village: A Rare Quiet Retreat

Introduction to Taxia Village
Taxia Village is located in the western part of Shuyang Town, Nanjing County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province. With a history of over 600 years, it is a traditional Hakka village known as the "Taiji Water Village" and "Southern Fujian's Zhouzhuang." It is a national 4A-level tourist attraction, a Chinese historical and cultural village, and a key rural tourism destination in China.

1. Village Features

(1) Taiji Water Village Layout
A stream flows through the village in an "S" shape, with two round earth buildings, Yude Building and Shunchang Building, situated on either side, resembling a Taiji diagram. Hence, it is called "Taiji Water Village."

The village is surrounded by mountains and water, with clear streams, small bridges, and flowing water, creating a picturesque and tranquil environment akin to a paradise.

(2) Earth Building Complex
The village has 42 existing earth buildings, including square, round, apron-shaped, and L-shaped structures. The most unique are the stilted buildings in the style of Zhejiang and Hangzhou water towns, forming a landscape of "large buildings accompanied by smaller ones, with varying heights."

Fuxing Building (built in 1631) is one of the oldest existing earth buildings.

(3) Deyuan Hall and Stone Dragon Flagpoles
Deyuan Hall (Zhang Family Ancestral Hall): Built during the Ming Dynasty, it is a national key cultural relic protection unit, with exquisitely decorated roof ridges and inscriptions of Zhu Xi's admonitions.

Stone Dragon Flagpole Group: Comprising 24 flagpoles over 10 meters high, symbolizing success in imperial examinations (civil officials with pen tips, military officials with lion carvings). It is the most complete stone dragon flagpole group in China.

2. Historical and Cultural Significance

Village History: Founded in 1426 by Zhang Hua Yiniang, the name "Taxia" derives from the Hakka pronunciation "Tasha," which sounds like "Taxia."

Imperial Examination Culture: During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the village produced 14 scholars and officials. Traditions like "Qujiang Literary Society" are preserved to inspire future generations to study.

Folk Activities:
Spring Sacrifice: Ancestral worship ceremony showcasing Hakka clan culture.
Newborn Tomb Sacrifice: Prayers for family prosperity.

3. Tourism Experience

(1) Natural Scenery
High Mountains and Valleys: With high forest coverage, fresh air, and abundant negative ions, it is ideal for hiking and photography.
Terraced Tea Gardens: Famous for Tieguanyin tea, visitors can experience tea picking and processing.

(2) Unique Accommodations
The village offers boutique homestays (e.g., "Huazhu" and "Shiguang Yijiu"), some converted from earth buildings, blending traditional and modern styles.

(3) Nearby Attractions
Close to Tianluokeng Earth Building Cluster ("Four Dishes and One Soup") and Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, making it convenient for combined tours.

4. Practical Information

Tickets: Free (some earth buildings or Deyuan Hall may charge separately).
Transportation:
By Car: Navigate to "Nanjing Taxia Village," about 1.5 hours' drive from Zhangzhou city.
By Bus: Take a bus from Nanjing Bus Station to Shuyang Town, then transfer to local vehicles.
Best Seasons: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November), with pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing and relaxation.

Conclusion
Taxia Village combines Hakka culture, earth building architecture, and natural ecology, making it a unique ancient village in southern Fujian. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of "small bridges and flowing water," explore imperial examination culture, or experience life in a tea-producing region.