10 Types of Residential Houses Across China

portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>3. Centuries ago, waves of Han emigrants fled south to avoid natural disasters and social unrest in northern China. They settled in the mountains of Fujian and parts of Jiangxi and Guangdong provinces. They called themselves "Kejia,” or guests, and built fortress-like tulou for protection. Within their sturdy walls, the people became self-sufficient and somewhat isolated. If enemies come, the tulou will be strong fortress once the gate is locked. A tulou can accommodate as many as 200 to 800 people. 

portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>4. Boat-shaped homes, also called "boat-shaped thatched cottages" are the traditional residential dwellings of the Li people in Hainan province. Although the decoration and modification of the houses may be different, their general shape is that of an inverted boat. With fences woven with coconut, bamboo and mango leaves and roofs made of thatches, coconut and sunflower leaves, the crude materials needed for the boat-shaped houses were readily available. The houses provide shelter from rain and wind, and protect its inhabitants from wild animals. The structure and shape of the houses can withstand the powerful sun, typhoons and storms. 

portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>7. Diaojiaolou, or stilted houses, are special residences for Tujia, Miao, Buyi and Dong ethnic groups in Hunan, Guizhou, Guangxi and other regions. Sitting high above ground, the design is meant to avoid insects and animals. 

portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>portant; float: none;”>8. Tuzhangfang, or earthen homes of the Yi ethnic group, look like Tibetan stone-houses but their walls are made of earth beaten hard while under construction. Its flat roof is also used for drying items. Most of these houses are found in central and southeast Yunnan. The house in the photo consists of three to five rooms. The central room has a fire-pit and is the gathering spot both for family members and guests. 

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