Xiamen day trip

Fujian Tulou: the earth-building clans

A day trip from Xiamen to the UNESCO Fujian Tulou at Nanjing — giant circular Hakka fortresses of rammed earth, and one of China's most surreal cultural landscapes.

Fujian Tulou earth buildings

What are the Fujian Tulou?

The Fujian Tulou are large communal buildings of rammed earth, some over four storeys high, built by Hakka clans between the 15th and 20th centuries. Dozens of families lived inside a single ring, with defensive outer walls and open courtyards within. Forty-six of them were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. It is a popular full-day option from Xiamen; accessible sites, travel timing and tickets are confirmed before travel.

What we visit

01

Yunshuiyao ancient town

A riverside village of old banyans and stone paths, and a filming location for the movie "Yunshuiyao."

02

Hegui building

A remarkable tulou built on marshland — famous for its slight, stable lean.

03

Huaiyuan building

One of the best-preserved round tulou, seen in the TV show "Dad, Where Are We Going?" and echoed in the animation "Big Fish & Begonia."

Good to know

  • A Fujian Tulou day is a custom itinerary option from Xiamen; accessible sites, travel timing and tickets are confirmed before travel.
  • Best combined with a 5-day Xiamen itinerary so the city days stay relaxed.
  • Comfortable shoes and a hat; there is walking between buildings.
  • Your guide explains Hakka clan life, feng shui and construction — it is far richer with context.

Add the Tulou to your Xiamen trip

The Fujian Tulou are the highlight day of our 5-day Xiamen & Tulou route — and can be added to any custom itinerary.

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