Fujian tulou

The Fujian tulou are large, enclosed and fortified earth dwellings unique to the Hakka people, located in the mountainous regions of southeastern Fujian, China. Constructed primarily between the 12th and 20th centuries, these buildings are typically rectangular or circular in shape, featuring very thick load-bearing rammed earth walls that rise three to five stories high and can house up to 800 people. The outer walls enclose smaller interior structures, including halls, storehouses, wells, and living areas, creating a layout reminiscent of a small fortified city. These walls are built by compacting earth mixed with stone, bamboo, wood, and other local materials, often reinforced with branches, strips of wood, or bamboo chips. The result is a well-lit, well-ventilated, windproof, and earthquake-resistant building that remains warm in winter and cool in summer. Most tulous have only one main gate, guarded by heavy wooden doors reinforced with an iron plate shell, and the top level features gun holes for defense.

Most Fujian tulou are concentrated in a small area straddling the Yongding, Nanjing, and Pinghe counties of Fujian, with some also found in neighboring Guangdong province. In 2008, 46 Fujian tulou sites were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as exceptional examples of a building tradition that exemplifies communal living and defensive organization in harmony with their environment. The term "Fujian Tulou" specifically refers to these large, load-bearing rammed earth buildings used for community residence, distinguishing them from smaller single-family structures or other rammed-earth buildings common across China. Notable clusters include those in Yongding and Nanjing counties, such as the Gaobei, Hongkeng, Chuxi, and Tianluokeng clusters.