Fujian's tulou — massive fortified earthen communal homes built by the Hakka people — became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The Yunshuiyao area in Nanjing County, made famous by the film Yunshuiyao, is the most accessible cluster from Xiamen. Here's how to visit with Hengtong Holiday (+86 137 9925 4912).
Getting There
Yunshuiyao is about 150 km (2.5 hours) from Xiamen via the Shenhai and Xiarong expressways. We recommend a small-group or private tour; self-driving is straightforward, while public transport requires a high-speed train to Nanjing Station plus a local bus.
What to See
Hegui Lou
Built in 1732, this is a 5-storey square tulou astonishingly constructed on a marshland. Stamp on the courtyard floor and you can feel the ground tremble. Two wells inside, one clear and one murky despite being only 18 m apart, are known as the "Yin-Yang Wells".
Huaiyuan Lou
Built in 1909, this is the best-preserved double-ring round tulou, with 136 rooms across four storeys. The central family school, "Sishi Shi", features exquisite woodcarving and calligraphy.
Yunshuiyao Ancient Path
A 2 km cobblestone path along a stream links the two tulou, passing 13 ancient banyans. The largest shades almost 2,000 m² and was a filming location for the movie Yunshuiyao. The water wheel, stone bridge and tree-lined riverbank are perfect for photos.
Practical Tips
The combined ticket is RMB 90. Allow about 3 hours for the full walking route. Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestones are uneven. Bring insect repellent in summer. With more time, add the Tianluokeng "Four Dishes One Soup" cluster, about 40 minutes away.
Our 3-Day Xiamen Classic (from RMB 1,280) and 8-Day Fujian Panorama (from RMB 4,980) both include a relaxed, in-depth Yunshuiyao visit — no rushed schedules or shopping stops. Contact +86 137 9925 4912.