Hegui Building

Welcome to the Hegui Building, or Huh-gway-lo, located in the serene Pushan Village of Meilin Town. As we examine this structure, it is important to note that while Huaiyuan was defined by its circularity, Hegui is a grand…

Stand here at the entrance and consider the ground beneath your feet. In the 18th century, the choice to build a five-story fortress on a swamp seemed foolhardy. …

Look upward at the five levels of galleries circling the courtyard. Hegui's height of over 13 meters makes it a skyscraper of the pre-modern era. …

In the center of the courtyard, you will find the 'wee market' of Hegui. This is not merely a tourist trap; it is a manifestation of the Hakka's adaptability. …

Let us move toward the ground-floor kitchens. In Hegui, each family has its own designated cooking area, a tradition that reinforces the blend of individual and communal life. …

Step outside for a moment to view the exterior walls of Hegui. From this vantage point, the defensive nature of the building is unmistakable. …

As we conclude our tour of Hegui, we must reflect on the future of this 'highest' building. We are witnessing the 'abandon général' of a centenarian mode of life. …

As you exit the Hegui Building, take one last look at its towering rectangular frame against the Fujian mountains. You have walked through a structure that is both a military fortress and a communal home, a building that defies…