A weekend in Fujian to explore the famous tulou buildings. These homes are unique in so many ways!.
We are James and Keli, previously Two Tickets Around the World. We are originally from Kansas in the United States and after many years of traveling during our holidays together, we took a leap of faith and moved to China. While we teach English during the week, we use our holidays and weekends to explore the different wonders of China.
Once the borders open, we'll continue our adventures exploring the rest of the world. Until then, let's explore China together.
James and Keli explore Fujian's stunning Tulou villages, experiencing Hakka culture and history firsthand. A captivating journey filled with unique architecture and warm local encounters.
Travel Guides & Tips in this video
James and Keli, from Two Tickets Around the World, take us on a whirlwind weekend trip to Fujian province, China, to explore the incredible Tulou buildings. These unique circular structures, homes to the Hakka people, offer a fascinating glimpse into history and culture. From exploring the symmetrical three-story buildings to learning about the Hakka people's ingenious preservation techniques, this journey is filled with surprising discoveries and heartwarming local interactions. Join them as they delve into the rich history and unique architectural marvel of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
Next travel video:
12 min
2021
Fujian Tulou Villages: Hakka Homes & UNESCO Heritage
A weekend in Fujian to explore the famous tulou buildings. These homes are unique in so many ways!
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Explore the enchanting Tulou villages in Fujian, China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Discover the unique architecture and rich Hakka culture of these fascinating homes. James and Keli, seasoned travelers based in China, share their weekend adventure, showcasing the beauty and wonder of this hidden gem. A captivating journey awaits!
More about the current video:(Published on 2021-05-24)
This video follows James and Keli of Two Tickets Around the World as they journey from Shanghai to Fujian province to explore the Tulou, unique circular earthen buildings that are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their adventure begins with a 3:30 AM wake-up call for a flight to Xiamen, the gateway to the Tulou region. The video highlights the historical significance of the Tulou, explaining that they were built by the Hakka people for defense against mountain tribes nearly 600 years ago. These structures are impressive, three stories high with thick mud walls, and are completely symmetrical. The video shows the ingenious preservation methods of the Hakka people, who dry vegetables on walls and railings to eat throughout the year. Each Tulou was self-sufficient, containing wells, crops, grain storage, and animals within its walls. The trip includes visits to several unique Tulou clusters, including one representing the five elements of China with three circular, one oval, and one square structure. James and Keli were invited for tea in one Tulou and learned about the 18 families who live and work together, maintaining a unique communal lifestyle. They explore various Tulous, highlighting the communal living areas on the first floor and family living quarters upstairs. One Tulou, almost 300 years old, boasts 102 rooms housing over 100 people. James and Keli also showcase the equality represented in the Tulou's room sizes. The couple hired a private driver, making their exploration of the different villages and transportation seamless. They share the cost of ascending one of the larger Tulous for panoramic views. The video ends with a visit to the Hekong village and the Chunguan, Yangzhaolou, and Yongronglou Tulous, each with its unique history and features. James and Keli conclude their Fujian adventure, encouraging viewers to subscribe and leave comments. Throughout the video, James and Keli engage with locals, sharing tea and conversations, providing authentic cultural insights and showcasing the warmth of the Hakka people.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: How did the Hakka people use the Tulou?
A: They used them for defense against mountain people, and the entire structure was designed for self-sufficiency, with wells, crops, and storage all within the walls.
Q: What is special about the Tulou's construction?
A: They are completely symmetrical, three stories high, with thick mud walls, and the rooms are all the same size to represent equality.
Q: What did the Hakka people do to preserve food?
A: They dried vegetables and other foods on the walls and railings throughout the village to preserve them for the entire year.
