Located in China’s Yongding County, the Tulou Fuyulou Changdi Inn is known as an “earth building.” The Hakka people built China's tulou, a Han subgroup that ventured into southern China about 2,000 years ago. Between the 12th and 20th centuries, these communal earthen buildings housed large families, providing protection from bandits known to roam the countryside.

Guests can enjoy the serenity of the Chinese countryside and will be welcomed by Stephen, the generous English-speaking landlord who strives to make travelers feel at home. Travelers will also get to try traditional Hakka cuisine, including Hakka pork and DouFu (tofu set in a spicy chili and bean-based sauce).

The Tulou Fuyulou Changdi Inn rooms are simple and basic; one traveler who stayed in 2014 posted this review: “As a Western tourist, Changdi Inn just gets it right. Most places in China think travelers want marble floors and lots of concrete, but here they have hot water with good pressure, coffee, English-speaking staff, toast for breakfast, and WiFi.”

And really, what more could you want? Location-wise, this is a great base for exploring Hongkeng village and some of the neighboring tulou villages. Though this is a World Heritage site, tourist groups tend to be most visible at lunchtime while the evenings are tranquil. Walk just ten minutes outside the gates, and you’ll find simple restaurants with cheap food and beer!