Zidong Community (Pingxi District Farmers' Association Dongshi Ecological Education Center) Introduction
Zidong Community is located in Dongshi Village, Pingxi District, and is characterized as a tea plantation within the rural landscape of northern Taiwan. Due to its location in the valley, the arable land is limited, yet it boasts rich forest resources and abundant water sources, resulting in a diverse and rich ecological environment. Additionally, the stone houses in the community are well-preserved and serve as important cultural landmarks. The community features historically significant sites such as the Qianzhengkeng Ancient Trail, the Dongshi Ecological Education Center that offers local cuisine and environmental education, as well as Chenjiashanju and Dongshan Rongzhuang which provide hands-on experiences with agricultural products. Visitors can explore ancient trails, visit farms, and enjoy nature. **Pingxi District Farmers' Dongshi Ecological Education Center**: Pingxi Elementary School Dongshi Branch is situated in the traditional agricultural area of Dongshi Village, surrounded by mountains and abundant greenery, embodying the characteristics of an "inland school" filled with tea scent and ecological richness. The center offers venue services, local dishes, agricultural experiences, and environmental education. **Chenjiashanju**: Located in the Huoshaoliao settlement, coal mining began here during the Japanese occupation and continued until the 60th year of the Republic of China. Today, remnants of three mine shafts, including the Benxia Mine, Fengkeng, and Xinkeng, can still be found. The Stone Ancient Well is a naturally formed giant pot hole due to erosion from stream water. The owner, Sister Lan, embodies the resilient spirit of traditional women, having maintained the farmland for many years and is known for her culinary skills, making her a community cooking expert. Visitors can experience the joy of picking fresh vegetables and making pumpkin rice cakes and zongzi. **Dongshan Rongzhuang**: Located in the Banzikeng settlement, this site lies at the boundary of Pingxi and Pinglin, offering stunning views of tea plantations. Mr. Gao Denshan, the founder of the mountain, reorganized the ancient house in Banzikeng in the 85th year of the Republic of China when Mr. Gao Mingfu became a grandfather. To commemorate Gao Denshan's legacy, he named it Dongshan Rongzhuang after his great-grandson, Gao Rongqian, ensuring that this story of filial piety continues to be passed down. The turmeric and vegetables grown at Dongshan Rongzhuang are cultivated using natural farming methods to provide safe agricultural products for visitors. Pingxi Farmers' Association offers firefly viewing guidelines: 1. Many areas in Pingxi can observe the sparkling fireflies. Wear comfortable, natural-colored clothing; long sleeves and pants are recommended to avoid insect bites. Mosquito repellent is advised for those sensitive to mosquitoes. 2. Wear rain boots or cloth shoes; avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent snake bites. Refrain from entering bushes to avoid encounters with venomous snakes, and watch your step to avoid stepping on frogs or snakes. 3. During firefly viewing, always remind yourself not to startle wildlife and never chase any wild animals, allowing them to forage and rest freely.
