Sky-High History: Fujian’s Tulou Buildings From Above

Guardians of the Valleys

Drones soaring over Fujian province reveal a secret: clusters of circular tulou buildings nestled between misty mountains like ancient stone sentinels. These UNESCO World Heritage wonders, built by the Hakka people centuries ago, aren’t just architecture—they’re time capsules blending defense, community, and tradition.

Living Museums

From above, the tulou look like giant mushrooms sprouting from the earth. Their thick earthen walls (some up to 6 feet wide!) once protected families from invaders. Today, they house generations who keep ancestral customs alive. Imagine attending a moonlit tea ceremony in their central courtyards!

A Timeless Journey

As one local historian puts it: \"Each cracked window frame whispers stories of dynasties, migrations, and mooncakes shared under the same roof.\" For travelers, visiting these structures—like the iconic Chengqi Lou—feels like stepping into a wuxia film set… minus the CGI.

Pro tip: Spring visits mean emerald-green rice terraces framing the tulous—perfect for that #TravelTok moment.

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Aerial view of the tulou buildings of Fujian

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