Geographical Location
Da Wan Shi Ju is nestled in a tranquil Hakka village in the southwestern part of Pinghuan Community, Pingshan District, Shenzhen. The address might sound tricky, but it’s actually easy to reach! It’s located at No. 33 Da Wan Road, Pingshan Street, Longgang District, Guangdong Province. Surrounded by lush greenery and rice fields, this historic site feels like a step back in time, yet it’s just a short drive from central Shenzhen.
How to Get There
For those without a car, take Shenzhen Metro Line 13 to Laojie Station (老街站), then transfer to bus M497 or M325. Get off at Da Wan Shi Ju Stop—the signs are in both Chinese and English. If you’re driving, there’s a free parking lot right next to the entrance. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds!
Natural Scenery
The area around Da Wan Shi Ju is peaceful and picturesque. Right outside the main gate, there’s a half-moon shaped pond (locals call it “Yuechi”) that reflects the sky, especially stunning at sunset. During spring, you’ll see locals planting rice in nearby fields, and wildflowers bloom along the stone paths. The climate here is mild year-round, so it’s perfect for a stroll.
Cultural Highlights
Da Wan Shi Ju isn’t just a building—it’s a window into Hakka history. Built in the 1700s during the Qing Dynasty, this fortress-like structure covers 15,000 square meters, making it one of the largest square-shaped Hakka forts in China. The walls are almost 10 feet tall, with four watchtowers at the corners and a grand six-story gatehouse facing south. Walk along the roofed corridors (called “Ma Lu”) to get a bird’s-eye view of the compound. Inside, you’ll find old-fashioned rooms where families once lived—imagine hundreds of people sharing this space!
Every year, the village buzzes with life during the Hakka Potpourri Feast (盆菜宴). Families from Hong Kong and overseas return to celebrate their roots. You’ll see traditional dances like Lion Dances and Qi Lin (Unicorn) Performances, and the air smells amazing from the giant stew pots. Even if you visit on a regular day, the preserved flagpole stones and ancestral halls whisper stories of the past.
Facilities for Visitors
The site is tourist-friendly! A small visitor center near the entrance offers free maps (in English!) and bottled water. Clean restrooms and shaded resting areas make it easy to explore. For food, there’s a local snack stall selling Hakka specialties like “Zhai Jian” (fried tofu) and sticky rice cakes. If you’re hungry for more, the nearby village has a few family-run restaurants.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Walking through Da Wan Shi Ju feels like stepping into a living museum. Start at the south-facing gate, which bears the name “Da Wan Shi Ju” in bold Chinese characters. The open plaza in front (called “He Ping”) used to be where villagers dried crops. Don’t miss the hidden details: carved wood beams, drainage systems built into the stone floors, and tiny windows designed to defend against invaders.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional music performance by local elders. They often play the erhu or sing Hakka folk songs in the courtyard. For photography fans, the sunrise over the watchtowers is a must-capture moment. Just chat with the friendly staff—they might even share tips on the best angles!
Whether you’re into history, architecture, or simply enjoying a quiet day in nature, Da Wan Shi Ju offers a unique slice of old-world China. And hey, who doesn’t love a good story? This place is packed with them!
