Changjiao Ancient Village

Changjiao Ancient Village

Changjiao Ancient Village is a place where Minnan people and Hakka people blend, a serene and mystical destination. Surrounded by mountains on all sides and spanning over 10 square li, the gently flowing Changjiao Stream meanders through the village, leaving behind patches of green grass and crystal-clear pools before continuing on to the distant hills.

Entering Changjiao Village by walking along the pebble path by the stream from Héguì Building, you’ll encounter long, quiet ancient lanes, century-old banyan trees, magical tulou buildings, and the beautiful landscape of lush mountains and clear waters—all of which bring a sense of tranquility and transcendence. Within the village, by the stream, and under the banyan trees, ancient cobblestone paths crisscross in silence, steeped in mystery and grandeur. Though some of these paths are now uneven and have gradually been forgotten by many, their smooth stones still carry the joys, sorrows, dreams, and hopes of generations of Changjiao people.

Winding through the tranquil paths, you can take in the stunning sights of tulou and the pastoral scenery, full of charm. On both sides of the stream, a cluster of 12 century-old banyan trees forms an impressive sight. With their twisted roots and lush foliage, these enduring trees remain vibrantly alive despite the passage of time. Their roots spread out in all directions but notably lack aerial roots, making them a rare variety of small-leaf banyan. Sitting beneath these ancient trees, listening to the murmuring stream, feeling the gentle countryside breeze, and watching the simple, leisurely villagers pass by evokes a deep sense of connection to the land and a return to nature.

In Changjiao, every step leaves a trace of culture, and every view echoes with history. The old streets and arcades are like fine aged wine—growing richer and more mellow with time. At the old marketplace end of Changjiao, there is a row of two-story brick-and-wood structures—the old street market of Changjiao. The ground floors along the street were once shops, most retaining their wooden plank walls, while the upper floors served as residences. The two levels were connected by wooden eaves extending toward the center of the street, providing shelter from rain and sun for the shops below, much like the arcades of southern Fujian. Shopfront after shopfront still hints at the bustling prosperity this small mountain village enjoyed 700 years ago. Today, this century-old street still houses grocery stores, barbershops, tin workshops, pharmacies, and more—though some now stand quiet and desolate.

Source: Fujian Provincial Department of Tourism Development

Meilin Town: Located in the northwest of Nanjing County, Meilin Town covers a total area of 109 square kilometers. The area is rich in resources and has convenient transportation. The Sāntuán Stream flows from south to north into the Shūjiào Stream, and the Shāncháng Highway runs through the entire region. During the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, Meilin belonged to the Meilin District of Jūrén Li, while Changjiao belonged to the Chángjiào District. In the early years of the Republic of China, it was part of the Sāntuán District and Changjiao District. In 1943 (the 32nd year of the Republic of China), it became part of Chángméi Township. Historically, the area has produced many notable figures, including 3 jinshi (imperial examination graduates) and 22 juren (provincial examination graduates). In the early years of the People's Republic of China, it was designated as the Fifth District. In September 1958, it became the Meilin People’s Commune, was restructured as Meilin Township in July 1984, and in 199… More detailed information about Meilin Town++