‘Regret’ as man has highway

In China, “nail houses” refer to properties whose owners resist relocation despite government or developer pressures to clear land for construction. The term “nail house” symbolizes these homes’ prominence, akin to stubborn nails that refuse to be removed. This phenomenon highlights the complexities surrounding personal property rights in China, where private land ownership was abolished decades ago. Although the 2007 property law granted citizens more rights, the government retains significant authority over land use.

A notable example is Ye Yushou, a tofu vendor from Jinxi County, Jiangxi Province. In 2022, despite being offered 1.6 million yuan (approximately $220,000) and two additional homes as compensation for his two-story house, Ye demanded 2 million yuan and three homes. The government declined his counteroffer and proceeded to construct the G206 highway around his property, isolating Ye’s home amidst an active construction zone. Now dubbed “The Eye of Jinxi,” Ye’s residence endures constant noise and dust. Reflecting on his decision, Ye admits regret, stating, “I asked for more, and now I’m stuck.”