Fujian's Tulous: Exploring Ancient Hakka Villages

China's Tulous: Life inside an ancient Chinese fortress

Destination:ChinaProvince:FujianCity:Yongding
China's Tulous: Life inside an ancient Chinese fortress
Nico2022-08-2224 min

This week we visited one of the most picturesque and interesting villages we've been to in China. We headed down to Fujian to see the famous 'Tulous' which are ancient Chinese fortresses built by the Hakka people.

Not only did we see some of the most amazing pieces of architecture in these round house buildings but we learnt about the local culture and we we stayed inside one to really experience life here.

--- Nico
August 22, 2022, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Introduction to Tulous
  2. 0:25Village life begins
  3. 2:02Entering the Tulou
  4. 3:01History of Tulous
  5. 4:46Tulou structures
  6. 6:08First impressions of village
  7. 7:24Meeting the locals
  8. 10:21Second largest Tulou
  9. 13:02Rice wine distillery
  10. 20:08Sunrise at Lookout Point

Nico explores Fujian's stunning Tulous, ancient round fortresses. A cultural immersion filled with local interactions and unforgettable experiences in rural China.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1For a truly immersive experience, consider staying inside a Tulou. Many offer unique accommodations that allow you to connect with local life. (2:11)
  2. Tip 2Visit Yongding during the cooler months for a more comfortable experience. Summer in Southern China can be extremely hot and humid. (3:01)
  3. Tip 3Engage with the locals! Many villagers are welcoming and eager to share their culture and traditions. Don't be afraid to strike up conversations. (7:30)
  4. Tip 4Sample local delicacies and beverages. Yongding is known for its rice wine and other traditional foods, offering a unique culinary adventure. (13:02)
  5. Tip 5Be prepared for the heat. Carry water, wear light clothing, and seek shade when possible. An umbrella can be surprisingly useful. (15:20)
  6. Tip 6Embrace the slower pace of life. The village offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, allowing you to relax and connect with nature. (22:28)

Join Nico on an unexpected journey to Fujian Province, China, to explore the ancient "Tulous," unique round fortresses built by the Hakka people. This captivating adventure unveils the rich Hakka culture, from communal living within the Tulous to heartwarming interactions with locals. Witness Nico's immersion in daily life, sharing meals, and forging friendships in this breathtaking village. Discover the history and architecture of these remarkable structures, and experience the charm of rural China.

More about the current video:( 3 / 44 )

China's Tulous: Life inside an ancient Chinese fortress

This travelogue follows Nico's unplanned yet enriching journey to the charming village of Yongding in Fujian Province, China. The central focus is on the unique Tulous, ancient round fortresses built by the Hakka people. Nico and Jack, initially intending to visit Guiyang, found themselves unexpectedly in Yongding, experiencing a captivating blend of cultural immersion and architectural wonder.

Their exploration begins with a stay in a Tulou, a communal home where they quickly integrate with the local community. The video beautifully portrays the daily life within the Tulou, from sharing simple meals with locals to playing games with children. Nico highlights the warmth and hospitality of the villagers, emphasizing the strong sense of community.

Beyond the personal interactions, the video delves into the history and architecture of the Tulous. Nico explains that these structures, varying in size and shape, served as both homes and fortresses. The preservation of these Tulous, thanks to government protection and UNESCO status, is highlighted, underscoring their cultural significance. The video also showcases the natural beauty surrounding the village, including streams and rice paddies, adding to the idyllic setting.

Nico and Jack's exploration extends beyond their Tulou residence, including visits to the second-largest Tulou in the world, where they marvel at its scale and intricate design. They also explore a local rice distillery, sampling traditional rice wine and experiencing the local craftsmanship. The video captures moments of both adventure and reflection, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise view from a lookout point. Throughout, Nico's personal insights and emotional responses to the experience add depth and authenticity to the narrative. The video concludes with a promise of a future episode focusing on the history of the Tulous, as told by the people who know them best.

The overall tone is conversational and informative, effectively blending personal travel experiences with cultural and historical insights. Nico's genuine enthusiasm for the experience is contagious, making the video engaging and inspiring for viewers interested in exploring the less-traveled paths of China.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was it like living in a Tulou?
A: It was intense but nice, like a close-knit community. We loved it!
Q: What was the most surprising thing about the village?
A: Probably how cheap everything was, like our lunch under the bridge!
Q: What was the best part of the trip?
A: Definitely the sunrise at the Lookout Point. Absolutely stunning!

Fujian's Tulous: Exploring Ancient Hakka Villages

This week we visited one of the most picturesque and interesting villages we've been to in China. We headed down to Fujian to see the famous 'Tulous' which are ancient Chinese fortresses built by the Hakka people. Not only did we see some of the most amazing pieces of architecture in these round...

Fujian Tulous: Exploring Ancient Chinese Fortresses

Explore the captivating world of China's Tulous, ancient fortresses built by the Hakka people. Discover stunning architecture, learn about the rich local culture, and experience life within these unique round houses. A journey into rural Fujian province, offering a glimpse into a fascinating past.

Attractions in this video: Tulous, Roundhouses, Ancient Chinese Fortress