The ancient complexes have left increasing numbers of young people, who have left tulou to live in modern buildings, proud of their hometown.

Huang Xiaona, who lives in Hukeng village and has worked as a tour guide since 2010, said that when she was a child, she lived with her grandparents in a tulou, which is still a beautiful memory.

When Huang grew up, she left the building with her parents to live in the town. She said that compared to new buildings, tulou have no modern conveniences and their rooms are small.

However, every time she takes her daughter to the tulou where she lived, Huang said she is highly excited, as the experience is totally different to life in a modern building.

"Although we have left the tulou, we are strongly aware of the need to protect the ancient buildings well, as they are legacies from our ancestors," Huang added.

Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn