Publications
A Value-Oriented Digital Twin Framework for Architectural Heritage Value Interpretation: Taking the Hegui Building of the Fujian Tulou as an Example
A novel value-oriented digital twin framework has been developed to interpret the heritage value of architectural sites, addressing limitations in current approaches that focus solely on geometric modeling and visual presentation. This framework integrates physical modeling, semantic organization, dynamic simulation, and interactive representation to systematically organize and interpret relationships among construction techniques, structural logic, social patterns, and environmental adaptation. Demonstrated through a case study of the Hegui Building, a Fujian Tulou World Heritage site, the framework effectively links fragmented heritage information into an interconnected value network, transforming static data into observable processes. This advancement enhances public understanding of heritage values by providing dynamic simulations and interactive visualizations, shifting the focus from object-oriented representation to value-oriented interpretation.
Geo-Cultural Factors Shaping Traditional Residential Architecture in Eastern China: A Comparative Study of the Hui, Su, and Fujian Styles
Traditional residential architecture in Eastern China is shaped more by cultural transmission than by climate, according to a comparative study of the Hui, Su, and Fujian styles. Despite similar climatic conditions, these styles—found in provinces like Anhui, Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Shandong—developed distinct characteristics due to cultural influences such as Confucian philosophy and Feng Shui principles. The research highlights that while geography provides the material (e.g., stone and rammed earth), culture dictates the layout and symbolic details of these structures. The study used a qualitative comparative method, supported by case studies of representative sites like Xidi and Hongcun (UNESCO World Heritage Sites). This finding challenges the notion that climate alone drives architectural evolution, emphasizing instead the role of cultural heritage in shaping living traditions.
Immersive VR technology validation for Fujian Tulou heritage
A novel Cultural Visualization (CV) evaluation model demonstrates that immersive VR technology significantly enhances spatial cognition and cultural detail retention for Fujian Tulou heritage, achieving a 92% accuracy rate compared to traditional media. The study leverages metaverse virtual exhibition halls to transcend spatiotemporal limitations, offering a groundbreaking approach to cultural dissemination. Multimodal experiments combining electroencephalography (EEG), eye-tracking, and behavioral data validated the interaction between cultural salience and cost-effectiveness, providing empirical evidence for VR's potential in heritage preservation.
Microclimatic Effects and Durability of Surface Soil Materials in Fujian Tulou Rammed-Earth Wall
Research reveals that the durability of rammed-earth walls in Fujian Tulou is significantly influenced by microclimatic conditions, with solar radiation and wind speed correlating to particle size variation. The study found that southeast and north-facing walls exhibit severe degradation, including soil loss and quartz enrichment (79.9%), while traditional organic additives like bamboo strips and rice husks mitigate deterioration. Moisture-related moss growth on the east wall and slight salt crystallization on the north wall were also observed. Soil color diversity, linked to hematite and iron oxide, serves as a simple indicator of wall condition. The findings propose differentiated protection schemes for orientation-specific conservation, offering scientific guidance for preserving Tulou heritage and modifying modern rammed-earth materials.
Revealing the Inner Relationships Between Perceived Authenticity, Heritage Conscience and Heritage Responsibility
A study reveals that tourists' perceived authenticity of architectural heritage significantly influences their heritage conscience and, consequently, their sense of responsibility towards cultural preservation. Conducted across two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Kaiping Diaolou and Fujian Tulou—the research employs partial least squares structural equation modeling to demonstrate that while architectural authenticity impacts heritage conscience, traditional customs do not have a significant effect. It also highlights that interpersonal conscience shapes intrapersonal conscience, which in turn drives heritage responsibility. These findings underscore the role of perceived authenticity as a mediator between architectural heritage and responsible behavior, offering insights for sustainable heritage management.
Spatial Translation and Material Coupling: A Synergistic Methodology for Driving the Sustainable Regeneration of Vernacular Architecture
A synergistic methodology combining spatial translation and material coupling offers a promising path for the sustainable regeneration of vernacular architecture, as demonstrated by its application to Linpan structures. This approach decodes the 'house–forest–field–water' spatial prototype into contemporary formal strategies while integrating locally sourced ecological materials, significantly reducing embodied carbon emissions and reinforcing regional identity. Validated through the Daoming Zhuli project in Chengdu, the methodology's adaptability was further tested across diverse climatic and cultural contexts, including Fujian Tulou and Huizhou ancient villages. The study provides a design-oriented framework that bridges spatial typology with material selection, offering actionable insights for sustainable architectural renewal and contemporary adaptation of vernacular forms.
Tourist perceptions and living heritage experiences in Nanjing Tulou traditional villages, Fujian, China: A social media data analysis
Tourists' perceptions of living heritage experiences at Nanjing Tulou, part of China's Fujian Tulou World Heritage Site, are shaped by landscape features, village impressions, and service quality, with service-related issues dominating negative evaluations. A study analyzing 15 years of visitor reviews from Ctrip and Dianping revealed that while overall sentiment is positive, concerns about over-commercialization, accessibility, ticketing, interpretation, and service management persist. The research introduces the Culture-Service Symbiosis framework, highlighting how tourism services act as both a cultural decoder and authenticity buffer in living heritage destinations. This approach combines high-frequency word analysis, semantic network analysis, sentiment analysis, and stage-based topic-evolution analysis to uncover nuanced insights into tourist experiences.
Unbuilding psychological ownership: heritage governance and affective dispossession in rural China
World Heritage governance, when focused on material preservation and tourist experiences, can unintentionally weaken the living relationships that give heritage its meaning. This study reveals how residents of Hongkeng Tulou Village—a UNESCO World Heritage site in Fujian, China—experience affective dispossession through six interconnected mechanisms: restricted spatial autonomy, displacement of local storytelling, formalization of rituals, access control, commercialization, and ineffective communication. While psychological ownership persists in fragmented forms, such as attachment and resistance, these mechanisms highlight the relational and cultural dimensions of dispossession beyond material or legal aspects. The research combines ethnographic fieldwork with qualitative analysis to uncover how everyday institutional arrangements erode residents' sense of belonging without formal property transfers.
Cultural Communication and Digital Design of Fujian Hakka Tulou: Analysis on Shen Yuan Tulou Residents' Questionnaire Feedback
A high level of cultural awareness and openness to digital innovation among Fujian Tulou residents emerges as a key finding, offering a pathway for sustainable heritage development. Residents express strong support for integrating traditional culture into tourism while advocating for minimal disruption to daily life. They also endorse the use of technologies like virtual reality (VR) and interactive experiences to enhance cultural communication without compromising preservation efforts. The study employed qualitative methods—including in-depth interviews and questionnaire surveys—to gather feedback on digital design proposals, revealing that residents perceive these innovations as beneficial for both heritage dissemination and visitor engagement. This research provides actionable insights for balancing technological advancement with community needs, ensuring the long-term viability of Fujian Tulou as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dual-Path Framework Analysis of Crack Detection Algorithm and Scenario Simulation on Fujian Tulou Surface
A dual-path framework combining advanced crack detection and physical simulation has been developed to address the vulnerability of Fujian Tulou to environmental and human-induced stresses. The study introduces an improved YOLOv12 model for lightweight, accurate crack recognition across complex wall textures, while a two-layer RFPA3D model simulates crack evolution under varying conditions, aligning with field observations. Quantitative validation demonstrates superior consistency in morphology, geometry, and topology compared to baseline models. This framework offers a practical solution for standardized crack documentation and mechanistic interpretation, advancing preventive conservation efforts and sustainable management of Fujian Tulou.
Preserving Historic Architecture, Mitigating Climate Change: Life Cycle Carbon Footprint and Sustainability Insights From World Heritage Fujian Tulou
A novel framework, HBIM-LCCO2e, quantifies the life cycle carbon performance of historic architecture, demonstrating that adaptive reuse can significantly reduce per capita emissions while preserving cultural heritage. Applied to Fujian Tulou this approach reveals the interplay between embodied and operational carbon, driven by material choice and wall thickness. The framework offers a robust, data-efficient method for sustainable decision-making in historic preservation, addressing climate action (SDG 13) and equitable conservation (SDG 10). It provides quantifiable guidance to mitigate irreversible damage from high-carbon modern replacements, bridging the gap between Eurocentric conservation paradigms and vernacular architecture in developing regions.
Research on destination image perception of Fujian Tulou World Heritage Site based on online visitors’ reviews
Tourists generally hold positive evaluations of the architectural aesthetics and historical significance of Fujian Tulou World Heritage Site, but express negative sentiments toward service management, infrastructure, and characteristic qualities. The study used Octopus Collector to gather online reviews from Ctrip and ROST CM6 for in-depth analysis across three dimensions: behavioral characteristics, destination image perception, and emotional responses. Findings highlight the need for optimized passenger flow management, stronger architectural protection, and enhanced folklore displays to support sustainable tourism development. This research provides empirical insights for managing and promoting Fujian Tulou while offering broader implications for other heritage sites.
Research on the Behavioral Characteristics and Needs Profile of the Elderly in Fujian Tulou Village Neighborhood Open Space: A Case Study of Taxia Village, Nanjing County
Aging populations in Fujian Tulou villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, face underutilized open spaces that lack senior-friendly features despite their cultural significance. This study reveals that elderly residents exhibit diverse yet habitual behaviors, clustering in multiple sites with strong social and cultural preferences. Their needs prioritize functionality, safety, and cultural identity, while accessibility and landscape, though less critical, significantly impact satisfaction. The research employs a mixed-methods approach to analyze these dynamics, highlighting the influence of Hakka culture's clan-based social order on spatial usage. Findings underscore the need for tailored designs that balance practicality with cultural heritage preservation.
Research on the impact of sports event image on tourism loyalty in heritage sites: An empirical study based on the Yongding Tulou marathon
Sports event imagery significantly enhances tourist loyalty to heritage sites, such as Fujian's Yongding Tulou, by positively influencing their perception and emotional attachment. A study of the 2022 Yongding Tulou Marathon revealed that while sports events can boost the cognitive image of heritage, they do not directly foster a strong sense of place attachment. Instead, heritage imagery itself drives deeper emotional connections, which in turn strengthen tourist loyalty. Additionally, positive experiences during sports events further amplify this effect by improving perceptions of heritage. Demographic factors like gender, age, participation frequency, and running distance also play a crucial role in shaping how event imagery impacts destination loyalty. This research provides actionable insights for sustainable heritage development and offers a methodological framework to study the interplay between sports tourism and cultural preservation.
Tulou - The Architectural Heritage of the Hakka and the Phenomenon of Collective Identity
Tulou, the distinctive circular or rectangular structures built by the Hakka people in Fujian Province, China, offer a unique lens into architectural innovation and collective identity. These multi-story buildings, characterized by sealed outer walls and continuous balconies, served both practical and defensive purposes, fostering tight-knit communities centered around shared courtyards. Beyond their architectural significance, Tulou represent a cultural phenomenon where communal living shapes strong group identities, making them a focal point for ethnological study. This article explores the lives of Tulou inhabitants, their challenges, and future prospects, providing insights into how these structures both reflect and reinforce Hakka cultural identity.
Artificial Intelligence for Routine Heritage Monitoring and Sustainable Planning of the Conservation of Historic Districts: A Case Study on Fujian Earthen Houses (Tulou)
A machine-learning-based object detection method using the YOLOv8 model demonstrates high efficiency and accuracy in identifying damage to the wooden structures of Fujian earthen houses (Tulou). This approach significantly reduces labor and time costs compared to traditional evaluation methods, providing reliable technical support for routine heritage monitoring, renewal, and restoration. Through multiple experiments, the model's detection performance was optimized by refining sample selection, improving label quality, and adjusting hyperparameters. Despite an mAP of 57% in controlled settings, field tests showed the model effectively detected nearly all damage points, including holes, stains, and cracks, even in complex environments. This study highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in sustainable conservation planning for historic districts.
Assessment of Architectural Typologies and Comparative Analysis of Defensive Rammed Earth Dwellings in the Fujian Region, China
Despite their shared earthen defensive functions, Fujian's Tulou, Tubao, and Zhailu represent distinct architectural typologies. A comparative analysis of five key aspects—origin, plan type, function, structure, and ethical concepts—reveals their differences: Tubao is a hierarchical defensive dwelling, Tulou combines defense with residence in simpler structures, while Zhailu merges living and defense. This study clarifies their unique features, providing a methodological framework for distinguishing similar buildings globally. It also offers guidance for restoration and sustainable development of these heritage sites.
Catch me if you can: informal tourism employment of locals in scenic-oriented rural communities
Local residents in scenic-oriented rural communities, particularly those in Fujian Tulou villages, are extensively involved in informal tourism employment due to limited job prospects and the unique rural land ownership system in China. These individuals employ tactics such as camouflage, tacit collusion, lurking, and covert actions to navigate regulations while engaging in informal work. The study highlights that support from rural social networks further motivates this behavior. To standardize management, local governments and tourism companies are introducing formal employment opportunities and profit-sharing arrangements to regularize local employment in the tourism sector.
Exploring Hakka Earthen Building Culture and Tourism Development from the Perspective of Protection and Inheritance
Fujian Tulou, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a symbol of oriental civilization and a crystallization of historical and cultural struggles by the Chinese nation. This study identifies its significant value in historical culture, artistic aesthetics, and scientific research while analyzing current challenges in its development, particularly insufficient innovation and lack of diversified tourism strategies. It proposes solutions to enhance cultural tourism resources through new formats, balancing development with protection to ensure the continuation of Hakka historical context. The research employs a perspective focused on preservation and inheritance, offering actionable insights for sustainable tourism growth.
Research on Environmental Perception and Preferences of Traditional Villages from the Perspective of Local Gaze: A Chinese Case Study
A study on Fujian Tulou reveals that while villagers retain strong cognitive associations with historical spaces, their emotional connections are more pronounced in areas of social interaction and collective memory. The research, focusing on Hongkeng Village, found gender differences in activity paths and highlighted the need for balanced public facilities to sustain rural vitality without eroding the village's historical identity. Using observation, questionnaires, and cognitive maps, the study underscores the importance of preserving the 'home' identity in tourism-driven development while enriching residents' daily lives.
The Application of Fujian Hakka Tulou Culture in Fashion Design
Fujian Hakka Tulou, a UNESCO-listed architectural marvel, has been creatively integrated into contemporary fashion design, demonstrating the potential of traditional Chinese culture to inspire modern aesthetics. This study reveals that by blending the natural beauty and oriental spirit of Tulou with national style clothing, designers can produce garments that retain cultural authenticity while meeting contemporary fashion demands. The research employs a dialectical approach—combining inheritance and innovation—to transform architectural elements into clothing designs, focusing on styles, patterns, colors, and fabric materials. This method not only preserves the deep cultural connotations of Tulou but also injects fresh vitality into national style clothing, bridging traditional heritage with modern fashion trends.
Estimating the preservation value of the Fujian Tulou as a World Cultural Heritage Site using dichotomous choice-contingent valuation method
Researchers estimated the preservation value of Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, using the dichotomous choice-contingent valuation method (DC-CVM). The study found that Fujian residents' willingness to pay for Tulou conservation ranged from 96.83 to 256.36 yuan annually per capita, depending on the scenario presented. Key influencing factors included bid amount, cultural values, patriotism, support, age, marital status, and monthly income. The total estimated annual preservation value for Fujian Tulou was approximately 4 billion yuan (776 billion won), considering the province's population in 2020. This study highlights the importance of using real scenarios to minimize hypothetical bias and suggests that truncated mean values are preferable to avoid overestimating conservation value.
Landed and Rooted: A Comparative Study of Traditional Hakka Dwellings (Tulous and Weilong Houses) Based on the Methodology of Space Syntax
A comparative analysis of traditional Hakka dwellings, specifically Tulous and Weilong Houses, reveals distinct spatial configurations that reflect differing community paradigms. Tulous maintain a centralized ancestral hall with high spatial configurational values, serving as both spiritual and living center for residents. In contrast, Weilong Houses exhibit decentralization, gridification, reduced defensive capabilities, and increased residential privatization, alongside a separation of secular and ritual spaces. This shift suggests a decline in ritualization and an increase in secularization among Hakka communities inhabiting Weilong Houses. The study employed space syntax methodology to quantitatively analyze six case studies, highlighting the 'landed' and 'rooted' existence paradigms of Hakkas in the Guangdong–Fujian–Jiangxi border area.
Physicochemical Characterization of the Render Layer of a Rammed Earth Wall in Fuyulou, China
A physicochemical analysis of the render layer in Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China, reveals key insights into the longevity and composition of rammed earth constructions. The study, conducted using particle-size analysis, compressive strength testing, SEM, XRF, FTIR, XRD, and TGA, identified critical characteristics that can inform restoration efforts. These findings provide technical data essential for formulating effective restoration mortars, ensuring the preservation of these historical structures.
Research on the Sustainable Renewal of Architectural Heritage Sites from the Perspective of Extenics—Using the Example of Tulou Renovations in LantianVillage, Longyan City
A novel methodology using extenics principles successfully addresses the challenges of renovating Fujian Tulou, China’s unique multi-story earthen buildings. The study demonstrates that extension transformation techniques—such as divergent tree and conjugate pair analyses—can resolve contradictory problems in renovation design, including functional adaptation and material constraints. Applied to Lantian Village’s Tulou renovations, this approach extends the buildings' service life while preserving cultural heritage. Findings highlight that sustainable renewal hinges on resolving condition-objective-design contradictions, offering a scalable model for other architectural heritage sites. This work advances both the practical application of extenics in conservation and theoretical frameworks for heritage preservation.
Environmental Adaptations for Achieving Sustainable Regeneration: A Conceptual Design Analysis on Built Heritage Fujian Tulous
Fujian Tulous, ancient earthen dwellings in China, demonstrate remarkable environmental adaptation that aligns with modern sustainable building principles. A study analyzing 10 non-world-heritage Tulou cases in Nanjing County revealed five key passive design strategies—thermal comfort, solar shading, natural lighting, ventilation, and waterproofing—that enhance their green performance. The research proposes conceptual design approaches for sustainable regeneration, focusing on reshaping building envelopes, reorganizing spatial layouts, and integrating innovative materials and techniques. To achieve long-term sustainability, the study emphasizes the need to balance environmental adaptation with socioeconomic and cultural considerations.
Minnan and Hakka Tulou. Functional, Typological and Construction Features of the Rammed Earth Dwellings of Fujian (China)
This study reveals that Fujian's tulou, rammed earth dwellings, exhibit distinct functional, typological, and construction features when categorized into Minnan and Hakka groups. Contrary to previous assumptions of generic uniformity, these two types reflect differing lifestyles and dwelling ideologies. Through a systematic analysis of eight significant case studies, the research links functional differences to their typological and construction characteristics for the first time. This methodological approach paves the way for a more organized analysis of this vast heritage, fostering interdisciplinary research integration and guiding future restoration efforts with a proposed 'Manual on tulou restoration'.
Regenerative Design Framework
A regenerative design framework for Fujian Tulou has been proposed to address the challenges of abandonment and collapse while promoting sustainable development. This approach integrates spatial and constructive designs to meet modern lifestyle demands and enhance environmental adaptation capabilities. The framework aims to rethink human-earth relationships by offering resilient solutions that contribute to energy savings, carbon reduction, and heritage conservation. By revitalizing these traditional settlements, the study provides a long-term perspective for balancing cultural preservation with contemporary needs.
Sensitivity Analysis of Random Parameters for Earthquake Response of Hakka Tulou in Fujian
A novel sensitivity analysis method for earthquake response in Fujian tulou structures demonstrates superior accuracy and efficiency compared to traditional variance-based approaches. The study, which examines six key random variables influencing seismic behavior, reveals that moment-independent importance measures more effectively reflect actual structural responses. Findings highlight the method's ability to consistently align with variance-based techniques while providing deeper insights into apex displacement, inter-story drift angles, and base shear forces—critical for preserving these UNESCO-listed Hakka earthen buildings.
Sustainable Development of Rural Settlements from the Perspective of World Heritage: A Case Study of Fujian Tulou
Fujian Tulou, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, stands out for its unique architectural structure and ecological sustainability. This study highlights Fujian Tulou's significance by comparing it with other global rural settlements, emphasizing its cultural deposits and environmental adaptability. The research analyzes four key aspects of Fujian Tulou—architectural design, ecological integration, cultural preservation, and sustainable development—and offers actionable recommendations for balancing heritage conservation with modern growth. By focusing on these dimensions, the study provides a blueprint for other rural settlements aiming to achieve sustainable development while maintaining their World Heritage status.
Comparative Study on Color Protection of Fujian Tulou and Kyoto Machiya
A comparative analysis reveals striking similarities between the color characteristics of Fujian Tulou, China's UNESCO-listed earthen structures, and Kyoto Machiya, Japan's traditional wooden residences. Both architectural styles exhibit harmonious color palettes that reflect their cultural heritage and natural environments. The study, leveraging field research and color measurement, identifies key color protection strategies employed in Japan—such as policy-driven preservation and contextual design—that could inform China's efforts to safeguard the aesthetic integrity of Fujian Tulou. These findings underscore the potential for cross-cultural learning in architectural conservation, offering practical guidance for maintaining the visual identity of heritage sites while balancing modern urban development.
Fujian Tulou Rammed Earth Structures: Optimizing Restoration Techniques Through Participatory Design and Collective Practices
Fujian Tulou, a significant part of China's built heritage, faces deterioration and abandonment despite some structures being UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This study identifies that participatory design and collective practices can optimize restoration techniques for rammed earth walls, ensuring both the preservation of cultural value and structural integrity. By focusing on grouting and stitching cracks with earthen mortar, researchers propose a method that leverages the community's collaborative nature to address the unique characteristics of these structures. This approach aims to revitalize Fujian Tulou villages, preventing further disintegration and abandonment.
Local people’s reactions to heritage tourism
Heritage tourism at Fujian Tulou brings both economic and cultural benefits to local communities, particularly when they have greater control over tourism management. However, the imposition of 'international standard' management policies by local governments, framed within European architectural heritage discourse (AHD), often leads to dissatisfaction among residents and tourists alike. While some locals experience positive impacts from increased tourism, others feel alienated due to restrictive management practices that limit their sense of place and freedom. This study highlights the complex interplay between heritage conservation, local governance, and community perceptions, revealing a tension between authentic cultural preservation and the lived experiences of both residents and visitors.
Tulou, earthen buildings in Southeast China|I Tulou, edifici in terra cruda nel sud-est della Cina
Fujian Tulou, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2008, stand out for their architectural brilliance, sustainability, and deep cultural significance. These earthen buildings, constructed between the 12th and 20th centuries, served as both homes and fortified structures for clan families, utilizing locally available materials like rammed earth, bamboo, timber, and stone. A recent study delved into their settlement principles, environmental integration, typological characteristics, and structural resilience, particularly focusing on anti-seismic measures reminiscent of traditional Chinese timber frame construction. Detailed surveys of circular and quadrangular buildings provided insights into their constructive typology and structural behavior, highlighting their ingenious design and enduring legacy.
Tulou: The Rammed Earth Dwellings of Fujian (China). Functional, Typological and Constructive Features
A comparative analysis of Minnan and Hakka Tulou, the distinctive rammed earth dwellings of Fujian, China, reveals significant differences in their typological-functional and constructive features. By examining eight case studies, researchers at Roma Tre University and Fuzhou University identified patterns that distinguish these two families of structures. The study aims to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive 'Manual on Tulou restoration,' which will document original materials and techniques while investigating construction phases, architectural details, and mechanical behavior. This ongoing research seeks to preserve and spread knowledge about these unique architectures, contributing to their conservation efforts.
Construction and Application of a System for Assessing the Value of Non-World Heritage Tulou in Pinghe County, Fujian Province, Based on the Analytic-hierarchy Process
A systematic approach to evaluating non-World Heritage Fujian tulou in Pinghe County, Fujian Province, has been developed using the analytic-hierarchy process (AHP), expert-scoring methods, and matrix calculations. This study identifies key factors such as value, location, and material conditions to assess these structures, which are culturally significant but lack recognition and funding compared to UNESCO-listed tulou. The research provides a framework for repurposing and conserving Pinghe tulou through targeted renovations, exemplified by case studies from Jiufeng town. By addressing structural deterioration and promoting functional repositioning, this methodology offers a model for preserving Fujian's architectural heritage beyond UNESCO-designated sites.
Wind Field Analysis for a Tulou (Earthen Building) in Fujian, China — “A Case Study of Eryi Lou”
A study on the Eryi Lou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Fujian's largest round tulou (earthen buildings), reveals that its traditional architecture excels in natural ventilation. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, researchers analyzed the wind field around this structure, considering incompressible isothermal turbulent airflow to assess its ventilation performance. The findings highlight the superior efficiency of the round earthen building's design in facilitating natural air movement, offering insights that could inform future ecological architecture. This research underscores the ingenuity and adaptability of vernacular dwellings in mountainous regions.
World Heritage as discourse: knowledge, discipline and dissonance in Fujian Tulou sites
Fujian Tulou's official World Heritage discourse, while emphasizing harmony between human habitat and nature, functions similarly to Western heritage narratives by privileging expert knowledge and governmental authority over local voices. This study reveals that the harmony discourse, despite its intent to foster societal cohesion, creates significant dissonance among inhabitants by marginalizing local residents' roles in conservation and legitimizing governmental power through framing non-heritage practices like public health and moral norms. The research compares Fujian Tulou's discourse with authorized heritage discourse using textual analysis, highlighting the hegemonic nature of both narratives.
Ecological Aesthetic of Wind Environment about the Circular Earth Building in Fujian, China
The Eryi Lou, the largest circular Tulou in Fujian, China, exemplifies ecological building design by harmonizing with its topography and local climate. Research reveals that its architectural features—such as Feng Shui-oriented entrances, courtyard layouts, and fourth-floor windows—enhance cross-ventilation and heat dissipation, aligning with ecological aesthetics principles of local and national significance. Using GIS analysis and on-site wind environment measurements, the study demonstrates how traditional Tulou design integrates aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency, offering a sustainable model for modern urban development. This symbiotic relationship between architecture and environment underscores its potential as an exemplar for future green building practices.
World Heritage in China: Universal Discourse and National Culture
China's engagement with UNESCO World Heritage Sites reflects a dynamic interplay between universal discourse and national culture, reshaping heritage preservation structures and introducing well-theorized frameworks. Contrary to post-colonial critiques, these influences are largely voluntarily pursued by the state, involving multiple agents such as transnational organizations, NGOs, and local inhabitants. The study, focusing on Fujian Tulou among other sites, reveals that World Heritage acts as a dialectical force, influenced by political, cultural, and economic contexts at both local and national levels. This research contributes to sociological literatures on collective memory and neo-institutionalism while offering insights into the complex relationship between universalism and particularism.
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