South China has always been outward-looking with many overseas Chinese able to trace their ancestry to one of the communities that still inhabit these lands today. The most diasporic among these migrants are the Hakka, who left a distinct stamp on the region’s history, architecture, language and cuisine. Make your way south and traverse the Hakka lands in search of their story.
- All-inclusive | small private groups,
- Personal Explorer (your multilingual host & chauffeur),
- 5 to 8 days tailor-made programs,
- Start from/end at Xiamen (XMN),
- Available all year (winter best time),
- Average 1,100 - 2,300 RMB per person per day,
- Kids aged 6-12 get 10% discount | kids aged <6 free of charge.
FUJIAN | FACING THE SEA
LEGACY OF AMOY
>> HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE | LOCAL CUISINE & ACTIVITIES
Make your way to the heart of the historic district on Xiamen Island to stroll the colonial-style arcades, have a break at the old marina and watch the sunset at one of the beaches. No visit to Xiamen is complete without a fresh seafood feast at the lively Bashi Market.
BEHIND HAKKA WALLS
>> HAKKA CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE | NATURAL ENVIRONMENT | HIKING
Travel to a secluded mountain hamlet to stay overnight in a still inhabited 400-year-old square tulou and immerse yourself in Hakka village life. Hike the tea bush covered hills and cool down in a remote waterfall after, or sample some of the local specialties (with or without alcohol). Perhaps visit some of the more famous tulou clusters around or just enjoy the peace and quiet of the village.
ISLAND FRONTIER
>> LOCAL CUSTOMS & CUISINE | BEACH ACTIVITIES
Fujian’s second largest island served as a coastal defence area until recent history but is now more appreciated for its expansive bays and seaside feel. Visit a genuine fishing community to inspect the catch of the day, and maybe source all ingredients for a tasty picnic lunch before settling on one of the island’s beaches.
GUANGDONG | HOME OF THE HAKKA
DRAGON HOUSES
>> HAKKA CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE
The area near the “capital of Hakka culture” is known for a unique version of the communal stronghold. The fortunate combination of merchant wealth and safe surroundings make that feng shui principles, rather than defensive purposes, dictated the design of the local weilongwu or dragon houses.
LITTLE HONG KONG
>> HAKKA CULTURE & ARCHITECTURE
Stop by a well-preserved commercial river town, for centuries the gathering point for inland Hakka who wished to leave China and try their luck abroad. The town’s overseas connections are reflected in its foreign inspired architecture and is therefore often dubbed “Little Hong Kong”.
A WORD ON ACCOMMODATION
Our Fujian programs include a selection of authentic homestays and boutique or contemporary hotels. While the tulou homestay might be more basic with shared commodities (guests only), all other lodgings come equipped with all sorts of modern conveniences and have some unique features.