Travel Diary: A Day in the Timeless Village of Nanjing Tulou

About two and a half hours by car from Xiamen, passing through vast terraced fields and tranquil mountain slopes, lies Nanjing Tulou. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this traditional earthen village in Fujian Province features circular earthen buildings where families or clan communities have lived together for hundreds of years. The outer walls of the buildings are made of thick, sturdy yellow earth, while the interiors consist of wooden structures with rooms and staircases layered intricately. Stepping inside, you can feel the traces of life intertwined within the complex layout. The open circular design of the ceiling is particularly striking. The most famous building is 'Chengqi Lou,' a 400-year-old structure. Its four-layered circular design is still home to residents, a sight that is both fascinating and awe-inspiring. Visitors can also try homemade noodles and tofu prepared by the villagers, offering a simple yet heartwarming taste. Nanjing Tulou feels like stepping into a completely different time zone compared to Xiamen city. Unlike the fast-paced urban life, this place moves slowly and quietly, preserving its unique charm.