The Fujian Tulou, embracing the heavens and earth while containing an inner universe, narrates stories of time through the ages, documenting the development of social civilization. In July 2008, at the 32nd World Heritage Conference, Fujian Tulou was officially inscribed on the World Heritage List.

Fujian Tulou are primarily distributed in Yongding, Longyan; Nanjing, Zhangzhou; Hua’an and other areas. In the late 20th century, these regions successively initiated applications for World Cultural Heritage status, but there was disagreement over the “naming rights”—whether they should be called “Hakka Tulou” or “Southern Fujian Tulou.” Ultimately, this “pen and ink dispute” was brought to then Governor of Fujian Province Xi Jinping.

Xi Jinping specifically arranged a governor’s office meeting to study issues related to the Tulou heritage application. During the meeting, he stated, “Tulou are found throughout Fujian. Now that we’re applying for World Heritage status for all of Fujian’s Tulou, we should call them Fujian Tulou, so that the entire Fujian region is included.” Everyone found his reasoning sound and comprehensive, showing consideration for the bigger picture, and they all expressed agreement. Thus, Xi Jinping resolved the issue with ease, and the Fujian Tulou heritage application subsequently accelerated.

Ultimately, after value assessment and selection, “six clusters and four buildings” totaling 46 Fujian Tulou were successfully inscribed on the World Heritage List.

Fujian Tulou are acclaimed as uniquely large-scale architectural achievements in rammed earth construction worldwide, and they also serve as historical witnesses to the traditional culture of bloodline ethics and clan-based living in the East. To protect this cultural treasure, all parties are making strenuous efforts.

Xi Jinping emphasized the need to further strengthen holistic and systematic protection of cultural and natural heritage, effectively enhance heritage protection capabilities and standards, and safeguard the cultural treasures and natural jewels of the Chinese nation.

Fujian Tulou, this marvel in architectural history, embodies the hardworking, brave, and persevering spirit of the Chinese people. They are not merely shelters from wind and rain but also unique cultural symbols of the Chinese nation.

Fujian Tulou

Fujian Tulou are large, fortified earthen buildings in southeastern China, constructed between the 12th and 20th centuries by the Hakka people. These unique multi-storied structures, often circular or rectangular in shape, were designed as communal housing for entire clans, providing both defense and a harmonious living environment. In 2008, they were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their exceptional example of human settlement.

World Heritage List

The World Heritage List is a prestigious catalog of cultural and natural sites deemed to have outstanding universal value, maintained by UNESCO since 1972. It includes landmarks like the Great Wall of China and the Galápagos Islands, protecting them for future generations through international cooperation. Inclusion on the list signifies a site’s exceptional importance to humanity’s shared heritage.

Hakka Tulou

Hakka Tulou are large, fortified earthen buildings in Fujian Province, China, constructed by the Hakka people between the 12th and 20th centuries. These unique communal residences were designed to house entire clans, providing both protection and a self-sustaining community. Recognized for their exceptional architectural style, many Tulou clusters are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Southern Fujian Tulou

The Southern Fujian Tulou are large, fortified earthen buildings constructed by the Hakka people between the 12th and 20th centuries. These unique communal living structures, often circular or rectangular, were designed for defensive purposes and to house entire clans. Recognized for their exceptional architectural tradition, they were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008.