Zidong Community (Pingxi District Agricultural Association Dongshi Ecological Education Center) Introduction
Zidong Community is located in Dongshi Village, Pingxi District, and is a type of tea garden within the rural landscape of Northern Taiwan. Due to its location in a valley with a limited area of agricultural land, it boasts rich forestry resources and abundant water sources, providing a diverse and rich ecological environment. In addition, the ancient stone houses in the community are well-preserved, becoming an important unique feature of the community. Besides, the community features the culturally and historically significant "Qianzhen Keng Old Trail," the "Dongshi Ecological Education Center," which provides local cuisine and environmental education, and "Chen's Mountain Residence" and "Dengshan Rongzhuang," where visitors can experience farming products and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore the old trail, visit local farms, and get closer to nature. The Dongshi Ecological Education Center, located near Pingxi Elementary School's Dongshi Division in a traditional agricultural area, is a "mountain school" filled with tea fragrance and lush greenery, surrounded by mountains and flowing streams, abundant in ecological resources. The center offers venue services, local cuisine, farming experiences, and environmental education activities. "Chen's Mountain Residence," located in the Huoshaoliao settlement, began coal mining during the Japanese occupation and ceased operations in the 60th year of the Republic of China. The site retains three mining tunnels: Benxie Pit, Feng Pit, and New Pit. The Ancient Stone Well is a naturally formed giant pothole shaped by stream erosion. The owner, Sister Lan, embodies the traditional female spirit of perseverance, maintaining her farmland for many years and possessing excellent culinary skills, now a cooking expert in the community. Visitors can experience harvesting fresh vegetables and the joy of making pumpkin cakes and rice dumplings. "Dengshan Rongzhuang," located in the Fanzi Keng settlement, sits at the intersection of Pingxi and Pinglin, offering scenic views of tea gardens. The legacy of Gao Denshan, the founding ancestor, is carried on by Mr. Gao Mingfu, who returned to renovate his ancestral home in Fanzi Keng in the 85th year of the Republic of China. As Mr. Gao Mingfu was elevated to grandfather status at that same time, in honor of Gao Denshan's legacy, it was named Dengshan Rongzhuang, ensuring the story of filial piety will be passed down through generations. The turmeric and vegetables cultivated at Dengshan Rongzhuang are all grown using natural farming methods, aiming to provide safe agricultural products to visitors. Pingxi Farmers' Association provides the following precautions for firefly viewing: 1. Fireflies can be seen in many areas of Pingxi District. Wear light, comfortable clothing in natural colors, with long sleeves and pants to avoid insect bites. Friends who are concerned about mosquitoes may apply mosquito repellent. 2. Wear rain boots or cloth shoes; avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent snake bites. Avoid entering tall grass to reduce the risk of encountering venomous snakes, and be cautious while walking to avoid stepping on frogs or snakes. 3. While viewing fireflies, always remind yourself not to scare wildlife, and never chase any wild animals, allowing them to forage and rest freely.
