Fujian Zhangzhou Tulou: Which is more fun, Tianluokeng or Yunshuiyao?

The Fujian Zhangzhou Tulou Cluster gained fame thanks to the animated film Big Fish & Begonia and the movie Yunshuiyao. Tianluokeng and Yunshuiyao are representative examples of this national intangible cultural heritage. Many people rush through their travels like special forces soldiers, but this is not recommended! Take your time, and you'll discover many surprises within the Tulou. - 🔻Tianluokeng Scenic Spot: Tianluokeng, Taxia Village, and Yuchanglou. 🔻Yunshuiyao Scenic Spot: Huaiyuanlou, Heguilou, and Yunshuiyao Ancient Town. - 1⃣Driving is a must! Public transportation to both Tianluokeng and Yunshuiyao 🚘 is not very convenient. - 2⃣Some of the more commercial Tulou buildings allow visitors to go upstairs. Remember! Communicate with the villagers before going upstairs, and do not enter other people's homes without permission. - 3⃣Avoid rushing through your trip like a special forces soldier. It is recommended to stay overnight in both locations. When visiting Tianluokeng, you can stay in a homestay in Taxia Village. When visiting Yunshuiyao, you can stay in a homestay near the big banyan tree! (If you're unsure where to stay🏡, feel free to ask me!) - 4⃣Heguilou and Huaiyuanlou are quite far apart, and the walking path between them is a gravel road. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes👟. - 5⃣Compared to Tianluokeng, Yunshuiyao is significantly more popular🔥. The downside is that during peak seasons and holidays, Yunshuiyao is extremely crowded, and photos are filled with people. Taxia Village is quieter and is considered a hidden gem~. - 6⃣The cuisine in both Tulou clusters is basically the same🥢, sharing the same origins. Local specialties include light fish, mountain bamboo shoots, free-range chicken, Jinxianlian (a type of orchid), milk root, and taro buns.