An ancient stone fortress is seen at Jiuzhou ancient town scenic area in Xixiu District of Anshun City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, July 24, 2024.

Tunpu means "fort" in Chinese, referring to the complex of residential buildings in villages of Anshun built in the style of fortress for resisting the enemy's attacks in ancient times.

In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), some troops were sent to Anshun, where they built villages and cultivated land for farming. Their descendants have lived there over generations with their original living customs preserved. Thus the unique Tunpu culture has taken shape.

After more than 600 years, these stone-structured Tunpu residential buildings have endured and now become popular tourist destinations for many visitors. (Xinhua/Ou Dongqu)