Built during the 32nd year of Emperor Kangxi’s reign (1693), Huanjilou is a titan among the Nanxi Tulou Cluster. For over 300 years, it has stood as a symbol of Hakka resilience, surviving both the violent shifts of the earth and the turbulence of modern history.
Earthquake Survivor
In 1918, a powerful 6.2 Richter scale earthquake struck the region. While many structures crumbled, Huanjilou remained standing. Remarkably, a 20-centimeter crack caused by the quake eventually “healed” itself over time due to the building’s circular gravity—a testament to ancient engineering.
Red Army Base
During the Chinese Civil War, this Tulou served as a strategic base for the Red Army. It survived heavy bombing by the Kuomintang; historical accounts tell of a miraculous moment when the moat’s water extinguished fires at the main gate, saving the structure from destruction.
The Acoustic Mystery
Unlike any other earth building, Huanjilou possesses a mysterious acoustic echo. If you stand in the center of the courtyard and speak, your voice reverberates clearly around the entire building. It is said that the building was designed this way to allow for rapid communication among its residents during times of siege.
Guided Tours from Xiamen
Step Into the Echoes of History
Contact our consultants to arrange your visit to the legendary Huanjilou.
