A Journey Through Time: Discovering the Tulou Castles

As I embarked on the Tulou Adventure, I was filled with anticipation. The allure of the Tulou, or Earthen Buildings, in Fujian, a UNESCO World Heritage site, had long intrigued me. These ancient structures, built by the Hakka people, promised a glimpse into a world where tradition and community thrived in harmony.

The journey began with a scenic three-hour drive from Xiamen to the Tianluokeng Hakka cluster. As we ascended the mountain, the view of the Tulou Castle unfolded before us, a breathtaking sight of four round houses encircling a rectangular one. This unique formation, known as “4 dishes and 1 soup,” was a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Hakka people.

Our local guide, a native of the region, shared stories of the Hakka’s resilience and their deep connection to the land. As we explored the village, I was struck by the simplicity and beauty of their daily lives. The traditional Hakka lunch we enjoyed was a culinary delight, rich in flavors and history.

Immersing in Hakka Culture

The afternoon took us to Xiaban Village, where we visited Yuchanglou, a leaning structure that defied gravity and time. The village of Taxia, with its serene stream and the Zhang clan’s ancestral hall, offered a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the Hakka people. The hall, a national cultural relic, stood as a proud symbol of their heritage.

As the day drew to a close, we checked into a Tulou guesthouse. The experience of staying in one of these ancient buildings was surreal. The thick earthen walls, designed to withstand the elements, enveloped us in a cocoon of history and tradition. As night fell, the quiet of the countryside was punctuated only by the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of nocturnal creatures.

A Morning of Architectural Marvels

The next morning, we set out for Gaotou village to visit Chengqilou, the largest circular Tulou. This architectural marvel, composed of four concentric rings, was a testament to the Hakka’s communal way of life. Each ring served a purpose, from living quarters to storage, reflecting a harmonious balance between individual and community needs.

Our journey continued to the Yongding Hakka Cultural Village, where we explored a series of Tulou, each with its unique style and story. Zhenchenglou, with its blend of Chinese and Western architectural elements, stood out as a symbol of cultural fusion. Kuijulou, Fuyulou, and Rushenglou, each with their distinct designs, added to the rich tapestry of Hakka architecture.

As we made our way back to Xiamen, I reflected on the profound connection between the Hakka people and their Tulou. These structures were more than just buildings; they were living embodiments of a culture that valued community, resilience, and harmony with nature. The Tulou Adventure had not only enriched my understanding of the Hakka heritage but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse cultural landscapes of Asia.