A man stands in the entrance to a tulou (土楼) in Xiazhai, Fujian. Tulou are large, almost castle-like structures with a thick, circular, earthen wall around the outside and homes around the inside and a courtyard and well in the middle. The unique structures serve as both a means of defense in rough times and as a place to keep a large family together in one place. The tulou in some areas have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Those have been restored and of course have a hefty entrance charge slapped on them. We've been told the one we considered going to costs 120 yuan ($18) to get into.
