Visit Hakka Earthhouses in Remote Fujian Countryside

Ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life fortress straight out of ancient China? Welcome to the Hakka Earthhouses—massive, circular earthen buildings tucked deep in the misty hills of Fujian Province. These aren’t just homes; they’re architectural marvels that have stood for over 1,000 years. And guess what? You can actually visit them today.

Hidden in remote villages like Tulou, these UNESCO World Heritage-listed structures were built by the Hakka people—a resilient, migratory Han Chinese group. Need safety from bandits and wild animals? No problem. The Hakka stacked earth, bamboo, and stone into towering, multi-story fortresses that could house up to 80 families. Talk about community living!

Let’s break it down with some real numbers:

Cool, right? But why go?

First, the vibe. Walking into a tulou feels like entering a giant clay drum surrounded by generations of history. The scent of wood smoke, the creak of wooden stairs, and the echo of voices bouncing off thick earth walls—it’s immersive. Plus, many are still inhabited, so you’ll get real culture, not just tourist acts.

Top picks? Head to Chengqi Lou—the “King of Tulou”—in Yongding. With four rings and over 400 rooms, it’s mind-blowing. Or check out Tianluokeng, where five tulou cluster like a cosmic stamp from above (yes, drone shots go crazy here).

Getting there? It’s rural, so plan ahead. Fly to Xiamen, then take a 2.5-hour bus to Nanjing or Yongding. Local guides (~$30/day) make a huge difference—they unlock family stories and hidden corners.

Pro tip: Visit in spring or autumn. Summer brings crowds and humidity; winter’s quiet but chilly. And don’t skip the local tea—Hakka lei cha (pounded tea) is a must-try.

In short: If you want off-the-beaten-path magic, rich heritage, and jaw-dropping architecture, the Hakka Earthhouses should be on your China bucket list. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s time travel.