Tusi Sites

The Tusi Sites are archaeological locations in southwestern China with three main areas: Laosicheng in Hunan Province, Hailongtun in Guizhou Province, and Tangyacheng in Hubei Province. Each place holds impressive remains of fortifications and residential buildings from earlier dynasties.

These sites developed during the Yuan and Ming Dynasties when local leaders governed ethnic minorities under imperial appointment, starting in the 13th century. This administrative structure shaped how these settlements were built and organized over several generations.

The buildings show features from local peoples mixed with imperial Chinese architectural elements, reflecting a dual administration that preserved local customs while maintaining central control. Visitors can observe this blend in the visible details and layout of the structures.

These sites are best reached through organized tours departing from major cities in Hunan, Guizhou, and Hubei provinces. Accommodations are available in nearby towns, and it helps to walk with local guides to understand what you are seeing.

The stone fortresses and wooden structures use building techniques developed specifically for mountain regions, integrating natural terrain into defensive systems. This approach shows how architecture and landscape were closely connected in these areas.