Fujian Hakka Tulous in Yongding County, Longyan
The Yongding Hakka Tulous (永定土楼) are located in Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市), in the southwestern part of Fujian Province (福建省), China. The Yongding Tulous are a unique masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture. The layout of the Tulous combines influences from Suzhou Garden (苏州园林) and ancient Greek architecture, making them an exemplary fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Spanning over 2200 square kilometers in Yongding, there are more than 20,000 Tulous, with nearly 5000 large buildings over three stories high, including over 360 circular Tulous. Approximately one-third of these date back to the Qing Dynasty (清朝), with nearly 3000 iconic Tulous still standing today.
The Yongding Tulous include three main types: Fenglou (五凤楼), Square Tulous (方楼), and Round Tulous (圆楼). These buildings are a testament to the wisdom of the Hakka people, offering various functions such as earthquake resistance, fire protection, and defense, along with excellent ventilation and natural lighting. In addition, the Tulous provide a warm winter and cool summer environment. The structure of the Yongding Tulous reflects the Hakka people’s long-standing tradition of unity and mutual support.
The Yongding Tulous also preserve the traditional Hakka lifestyle, where multiple generations live together in the same building, a practice central to the Hakka community. The Fujian Tulou (福建土楼), originating from the Hakka people and rooted in Yongding, are often referred to as the “Hakka Museum without Doors.”
In July 2008, the Fujian Tulous, with the Yongding Tulous as the core, were inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site. During the 2010 Spring Festival, Hu Jintao (胡锦涛), then President of China, visited the Yongding Tulous and remarked: “The Hakka Tulous are a treasure of Chinese culture, representing a model of harmonious coexistence within large family communities. We must protect, inherit, and apply this precious heritage well.” In April 2010, the Yongding Tulous set four Guinness World Records for being the “oldest, largest, most numerous, and highest” of their kind.
Name in Chinese: 永定土楼
Name in English: Yongding Earth Building
History
The Yongding Hakka Tulous (永定客家土楼) originated before the Tang Dynasty (唐朝). After the Yuan Dynasty (元代), they became widespread, and by the Ming Dynasty (明代), they had reached their mature form. As the Hakka people migrated, the Tulou architecture spread to neighboring counties and districts such as Nanjing (南靖), Pinghe (平和), Xinluo (新罗), and Shanghang (上杭), even extending to non-Hakka areas.
Before the Tang-Song period, Hakka ancestors had already settled in Yongding (永定), and by the end of the Yuan Dynasty, over 40 villages and Tulous, referred to as “fortresses” (堡) or “settlements” (寨), were established in the area. By the Ming Dynasty, Tulou architecture had flourished, and it continued to thrive throughout the Qing Dynasty (清朝). Construction of Tulous still occurred as recently as 2001.
Architecture Features
The Yongding Tulous are renowned for their remarkable structural integrity and multifunctional design. The circular Tulous were originally designed as fortresses to protect the inhabitants from external threats, with thick earthen walls providing defense against both invaders and natural disasters. The Yongding Tulous showcase a blend of simplicity and functionality that ensures structural durability while providing a comfortable living environment. The buildings are designed with natural materials like earth, wood, and stone, sourced from the local environment. The integration of traditional construction techniques with modern requirements for ventilation, light, and defense highlights the unique architectural ingenuity of the Hakka people.
Recognition
July 6, 2008: The Yongding Tulous were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Spring Festival, 2010: Hu Jintao (胡锦涛) visited the Yongding Tulous and praised them as a cultural treasure and a symbol of harmonious family life.
April 2010: The Yongding Tulous earned four Guinness World Records for their remarkable features: “oldest,” “largest,” “most numerous,” and “highest.”
Architectural Features
The Yongding Tulous (永定土楼) are a fascinating and unique architectural form found in Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市), Fujian Province (福建省), China. These buildings are renowned for their distinct design and construction techniques, which showcase the resourcefulness and resilience of the Hakka people.
Feature 1: Ancient History – The Oldest Tulous Over 1300 Years
The Hakka people have lived in Yongding (永定) since the Tang Dynasty (唐朝), and by the end of the Yuan Dynasty (元朝), over 40 villages and Tulous, called “fortresses” (堡) or “settlements” (寨), were established. The oldest Tulou still in existence today is Long’an Village (龙安寨), which is over 1300 years old. The Ming (明代) and Qing Dynasties (清朝) saw the golden age of Yongding Tulous, and they continued to be built well into the 21st century.
Feature 2: Diverse Shapes – Over 30 Different Types
The Yongding Tulous are highly varied in shape and design, with over 30 different types. These include rectangular buildings, square buildings, courtyard-style square buildings, temple-style round buildings, Wufeng Lou (五凤楼), pentagonal, octagonal, “hat-shaped” Tulous, “hanging” Tulous, and more. The variety stems from differences in aesthetic preferences, population sizes, economic conditions, and Feng Shui beliefs.
Feature 3: Large Scale – Housing Hundreds of People
Many of the Yongding Tulous are monumental in size, with some covering areas of 500 square meters. About 80% of the Tulous are more than three stories tall. The largest Tulou covers an area of 11,519 square meters and stands 6 stories high. The largest round Tulou has a diameter of 84 meters, and its four concentric rings have over 400 rooms. A single Tulou can house dozens or even hundreds of people. For example, the Tulou King Chengqi Lou (承启楼) housed 800 people at its peak.
Feature 4: Ingenious Structure – Earthquake-Resistant Design
The Yongding Tulous are renowned for their earthquake-resistant design. Key structural features include:
A prominent central axis, where the main entrance, hall, and main building align along a straight line, with auxiliary buildings symmetrically placed on either side.
A central courtyard with a “corridor-style” layout that creates easy movement within the building, setting the Yongding Tulous apart from other architectural styles.
The use of strong, compacted earth walls, which are tightly integrated with the wooden framework. Inside the walls, long wooden beams and bamboo strips serve as reinforcements, enhancing earthquake resistance. The round Tulous are particularly strong due to their compact and radial structure.
Feature 5: Complete Functionality – A “Small Family Kingdom”
Each Yongding Tulou is not just a home but a self-sustaining community. They offer a range of functions, including:
Living spaces for extended families.
A central ancestor hall for family meetings, celebrations, and rituals.
Water wells and sometimes gardens or fish ponds within or around the Tulou.
Gathering spaces and areas for agricultural activities, such as drying crops.
Large Tulous are referred to as “small cities” or “family kingdoms” due to their self-contained nature and the multiple generations that often live together under one roof.
Feature 6: Rich Cultural Heritage – A Deep Legacy
The Yongding Tulous are more than just architectural feats; they represent a deep cultural legacy. They embody the Hakka people’s philosophy of family unity and traditional values passed down over generations. They also showcase traditional building techniques that blend with Feng Shui principles and the Hakka’s unique construction methods.
Types of Yongding Tulous
Wufeng Lou (五凤楼)
The Wufeng Lou is an elegant and grand building, with its name originating from the five mythical phoenixes in Chinese culture, symbolizing harmony and balance. The layout of the Wufeng Lou follows the traditional design of ancient Chinese residences, based on the three halls and two corridors system, signifying the hierarchy and importance within the family. It is a continuation of the ancient Chinese courtyard style architecture, with the main hall (祖堂) in the center and smaller halls and rooms radiating outwards.
Square Tulou (方楼)
The Square Tulou is the most common type of Tulou and is often considered a predecessor to the round Tulous. It has a rectangular or square shape, with the walls extending from the main hall to the outer boundary, providing strong defense against external threats. Square Tulous are highly functional, with large central halls used for family gatherings, and extensive corridors connecting various sections of the building.
Round Tulou (圆楼)
The Round Tulou is the most iconic and well-known type of Tulou. These buildings are circular, with the main family hall at the center, surrounded by smaller rooms arranged in concentric rings. The round shape allows for better wind resistance and earthquake resistance. The layout is designed to maximize the use of space, and each room has a consistent size, typically about 10 square meters. The round Tulou has multiple advantages, including improved airflow, better Feng Shui, and enhanced stability during earthquakes.
Advantages of Round Tulous Over Square Tulous
Light and Ventilation: Round Tulous have no corners, which eliminates dark, poorly ventilated rooms typically found in square buildings.
Space Efficiency: The circular design maximizes the internal space, as a circle is more efficient than a square in enclosing a larger area.
Wood Usage: The curved walls of a round Tulou require fewer wooden beams, reducing the need for large amounts of timber.
Wind Resistance: The round shape reduces wind resistance, making it ideal for protecting the building from high winds.
Earthquake Resistance: The structure of the round Tulou helps distribute earthquake forces more evenly, providing better stability during seismic events.
Main Buildings
Chuxi Tulou Cluster
The Chuxi Tulou Cluster (初溪土楼群) is located in Chuxi Village (初溪村), Xiayang Town (下洋镇), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市), Fujian Province (福建省). It consists of several Tulous, including Ji Qing Lou (集庆楼), Yu Qing Lou (余庆楼), Sheng Qing Lou (绳庆楼), Hua Qing Lou (华庆楼), Geng Qing Lou (庚庆楼), Xi Qing Lou (锡庆楼), Fu Qing Lou (福庆楼), Gong Qing Lou (共庆楼), Fan Qing Lou (藩庆楼), Shan Qing Lou (善庆楼), Long Qing Lou (隆庆楼), and Hong Qing Lou (鸿庆楼). Among them, Ji Qing Lou (集庆楼) is one of the oldest round Tulous in Fujian Province (福建省), with a unique structure and 72 staircases, one for each household. This cluster has high historical, scientific, and artistic value. In July 2008, the Chuxi Tulou Cluster was included in the World Heritage List as part of the Fujian Tulou (福建土楼) group.
Hongkeng Tulou Cluster
The Hongkeng Tulou Cluster (洪坑土楼群) is located in Hongkeng Village (洪坑村), Hukeng Town (湖坑镇), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市). It consists of several notable Tulous, including Yu Cheng Lou (玉成楼), Qing Cheng Lou (庆成楼), Zhen Cheng Lou (振成楼), Yong Yuan Lou (永源楼), Fu Xing Lou (福兴楼), Jing Yang Lou (景阳楼), Yang Lin Lou (阳临楼), Zhao Yang Lou (朝阳楼), Qing Fu Lou (庆福楼), Guang Yu Lou (光裕楼), Jiu Sheng Lou (九盛楼), Fu Yu Lou (福裕楼), Kui Ju Lou (奎聚楼), Ru Sheng Lou (如升楼), Wan Sheng Lou (万盛楼), Shang De Lou (尚德楼), Hui E Lou (辉萼楼), Qing Yi Lou (庆宜楼), Yong Chang Lou (永昌楼), and Yong Cheng Lou (永成楼). These Tulous date back to the Song Dynasty (宋代) and the Yuan Dynasty (元朝), and by the year 2000, there were 638 households with 2310 residents living in the Hongkeng Tulou Cluster. The larger Tulous built in the Ming Dynasty (明朝) include Feng Sheng Lou (峰盛楼), Yong Yuan Lou (永源楼), and others. The Tulous built during the Qing Dynasty (清朝) include Fu Yu Lou (福裕楼), Kui Ju Lou (奎聚楼), and Yang Lin Lou (阳临楼), among others. The Hongkeng Tulou Cluster was also included in the World Heritage List in July 2008.
Gaobei Tulou Cluster
The Gaobei Tulou Cluster (高北土楼群) is located in Gaotou Village (高头村), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市), and spans across 11 natural villages. It includes Tulous like Chengqi Lou (承启楼), Shize Lou (世泽楼), Qiaofu Lou (侨福楼), Wuyun Lou (五云楼), Beichen Lou (北辰楼), Qingyu Lou (庆裕楼), Huayu Lou (华裕楼), Fuxing Lou (福兴楼), Yuchang Lou (裕昌楼), and others. The most famous is Chengqi Lou (承启楼), known as the “King of Tulous.” It covers an area of more than 5000 square meters and consists of four concentric circular buildings, with the largest outer circle measuring 73 meters in diameter and standing 4 stories tall. In the 1950s, additional Tulous like Shize Lou (世泽楼) and Qiaofu Lou (侨福楼) were built, forming today’s Gaobei Tulou Cluster. This cluster was also added to the World Heritage List in 2008.
Chengqi Lou
Chengqi Lou (承启楼), also known as the “Tulou King,” is the largest round Tulou (土楼) in Fujian Province (福建省) and one of the most famous. It is a nationally protected historical site and was included in the Guinness World Records in 2010. Chengqi Lou was built from 1628 to 1642 during the Ming Dynasty (明朝), and its construction continued into the Qing Dynasty (清朝). The building has a total of 402 rooms and at its peak, could accommodate up to 800 people. A famous rhyme about Chengqi Lou goes:
“High on four floors, within four rings,
Up and down, four hundred rooms,
Round within round, rings within rings,
Hundreds of years of change passed through,
A building within a building, heavens beyond heavens,
Close to a thousand people dwell,
Yin and Yang, Bagua within,
The Heaven, Earth, and Man converge within.”
In 1981, Chengqi Lou was included in the “Dictionary of Chinese Scenic Spots” and in the “History of World Architecture.” Models of the building were displayed in Guangzhou (广州), Shenzhen (深圳), and Taoyuan (桃园) in Taiwan. In 1986, the Chinese Postal Service issued a set of stamps featuring Chengqi Lou.
Zhencheng Lou
Zhencheng Lou (振成楼), also known as the “Prince of Tulous,” is a nationally protected historical site located in Hongkeng Village (洪坑村), Hukeng Town (湖坑镇), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市). Built in 1912, it is a round Tulou with an area of about 5000 square meters. The building is divided into two concentric circles and follows the I Ching (易经) Bagua layout, with each hexagon containing six rooms. The building’s walls are reinforced with blue bricks to prevent fire. It is often regarded as the most magnificent round building in Fujian and is well-preserved with one of the most sophisticated interior designs among round Tulous.
Zhenfu Lou
Zhenfu Lou (振福楼) is located in Xiaonanxi (下南溪), Hukeng Town (湖坑镇), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市). Built in 1913, Zhenfu Lou follows the Bagua layout and features intricate stone and brick carvings. It is often referred to as the “sister building” to Zhencheng Lou (振成楼). The structure consists of three halls and 96 rooms, and incorporates both Chinese and Western architectural elements. The Zhenfu Lou is an iconic example of the fusion of traditional and modern construction in the Fujian Tulou.
Yanxiang Lou
Yanxiang Lou (衍香楼) is a round Tulou located in Xinnan Village (新南村), Hukeng Town (湖坑镇), Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市). Built in 1880 during the Guangxu Era (光绪六年), it has a diameter of 40 meters and is a striking example of the Hakka architectural style. The building is designed to house up to 136 rooms and includes features such as multiple water wells, large courtyards, and significant carvings. The architecture embodies the Hakka people’s cultural values, including respect for ancestors and their connection to the land.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Hakka Tulou Construction Skills (客家土楼营造技艺) are recognized as an important part of the cultural heritage of the Hakka people (客家人). These architectural techniques, passed down through generations, embody both the practical and symbolic aspects of Hakka society.
Notable Individuals
Lin Dan
Lin Dan (林丹) is a famous Chinese badminton (羽毛球) player from Linjiang Town (临江镇), Shanghang County (上杭县), Longyan City (龙岩市), Fujian Province (福建省). He is a two-time Olympic Champion in men’s singles (2008 Beijing Olympics and 2012 London Olympics) and the first player in badminton history to win all major titles, including the Olympics, World Championships, World Cup, Sudirman Cup, Thomas Cup, Asian Games, Asian Championships, All England Open, and multiple BWF Super Series tournaments. On January 1, 2014, Lin Dan and his wife, Xie Xingfang (谢杏芳), were bestowed the honorary title of Tulou Lords by the Yongding Hakka Tulou (永定土楼).
He Wenna
He Wenna (何雯娜) is the 2008 Beijing Olympic trampoline champion (女子蹦床冠军) and serves as the official ambassador for the Yongding Hakka Tulou (永定客家土楼).
Anecdotes
In the early 1960s, during the Cold War, the United States launched the most advanced spy satellite, “Dapeng” (大鹏), which photographed China’s southeastern coast and the Longyan (龙岩) and Yongding (永定) regions. Initially, American intelligence believed they had discovered a large network of intercontinental ballistic missile silos, due to the unusual shape of the Hakka Tulous (客家土楼). The American government was shocked and sent a Chinese expatriate to investigate. However, the “missile silos” turned out to be Hakka Tulous, which were large, round buildings designed for family living.
Cultural and Architectural Value
The Symbol of Hakka Culture
Tulou (土楼) are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of Hakka culture (客家文化). The Yongding Hakka Tulous (永定客家土楼) are closely tied to fields such as geology, ecology, landscape studies, feng shui, architecture, anthropology, sociology, ethnology, folklore, Hakka studies, ethics, military studies, education, literature, and aesthetics. The unique construction techniques of these Tulous have their roots in ancient Central Plains (中原) residential architecture.
The practice of living together in family units reflects traditional clan-based ethical and bloodline beliefs. The Tulous contain couplets and inscriptions on their beams and walls that reflect the Confucian virtues of filial piety, loyalty, and benevolence, all integral parts of the Hakka people’s (客家人) commitment to Confucian values. The schools (学堂) attached to the Tulous serve as strong historical evidence of the Hakka people’s reverence for education and scholarship.
Protection and Conservation
In July 2008, the Yongding Hakka Tulous (永定客家土楼) were officially included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (世界文化遗产名录). During the 32nd World Heritage Committee meeting in Quebec City, Canada (加拿大魁北克市) on July 6, 2008, Fujian Province’s (福建省) Tulou (土楼) structures, including those in Yongding (永定), Nanjing (南靖), and Hua’an (华安), were recognized as part of this prestigious heritage. The Fujian Tulou group comprises 46 Tulous (46座土楼), including the Chuxi Tulou Cluster (初溪土楼群), Hongkeng Tulou Cluster (洪坑土楼群), Gaobei Tulou Cluster (高北土楼群), Yanxiang Lou (衍香楼), Zhenfu Lou (振福楼), Tianluo Pit Tulou Cluster (田螺坑土楼群), Hekeng Tulou Cluster (河坑土楼群), Huaiyuan Lou (怀远楼), He Gui Lou (和贵楼), and Dadi Tulou Cluster (大地土楼群).
