Location & Transportation

Longtian Shiju, a hidden gem in Shenzhen’s Longgang District, sits quietly in Tianduanxing Village, Kengzi Town. Though tucked away, it’s easy to reach by public transport or car. From downtown Shenzhen, take Metro Line 13 to Longtian Shiju Station (exit A), then walk 10 minutes through a tranquil village. Driving? Punch “Tianduanxing Village, Kengzi” into Google Maps—free parking is available near the entrance.

Fun fact: This area used to be part of Bao’an County, Shenzhen’s old name, before the city expanded!

Natural Charm Around the Site

Don’t expect mountains or beaches here—Longtian Shiju thrives in a humble rural setting. The surroundings are calm, with rice fields and banana trees nearby. Locals still grow crops, so you’ll smell fresh soil and hear birds chirping. Visit in spring for blooming wildflowers or autumn for cooler weather. It’s a perfect escape from Shenzhen’s urban buzz.

Cultural Heart of Hakka Heritage

Longtian Shiju is a Hakkatulou (客家围楼), a traditional fortified house built by the Hakka people. Constructed in 1837 (Qing Dynasty), it’s one of Shenzhen’s most intact examples. Covering 5,000 square meters, its walls are thick, windows small, and roofs sloped—all designed to defend against invaders.

Inside, you’ll find courtyards, halls, and rooms arranged like a mini-village. Ancestral altars and wood-carved plaques tell stories of the Huang family, who lived here for generations. It’s not just a museum—it’s a living link to their ancestors.

Did you know? Shenzhen has over 10 similar Hakkatulou sites, like Hehu Xinju and Dawan Shiju. But Longtian Shiju stands out for its simplicity and history.

Preservation & Recognition

In 1987, Longtian Shiju became one of Bao’an’s first protected cultural sites. Later, in 2002, it earned省级文物保护单位 status. Guides will share how locals repaired the roof with traditional tiles and restored wooden beams. Despite Shenzhen’s rapid growth, this place feels frozen in time.

Facilities for Visitors

The site is tourist-friendly! A small visitor center offers maps and English-speaking guides (¥50/hour). Clean restrooms and shaded benches let you pause between tours. No food stalls inside, but the nearby village sells snacks and tea. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk on uneven stone floors.

Immersive Tour Experience

Walking through Longtian Shiju feels like stepping back to the Qing Dynasty. Highlights include:

  • The Main Hall: Filled with ancestral tablets and red lanterns.
  • Defensive Moat: Now dried up, but imagine water guarding the fort in ancient times.
  • Hidden Rooms: Tiny spaces where women and children once sought shelter.

Local guides might share tales of how the Huang family survived wars here. For a deeper connection, bring a Chinese speaker to read the wall plaques—they’re poetic!

Why Visit Longtian Shiju?

Unlike Shenzhen’s skyscrapers, Longtian Shiju offers raw history. It’s ideal for:

  • Culture lovers curious about Hakka roots.
  • Photographers (gorgeous morning light!).
  • Families wanting a peaceful day trip.

Pro tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. And say hi to the villagers—they’re proud to share their heritage.

Explore Longtian Shiju and connect with Shenzhen’s soul!