Zidong Community (Pingxi District Agricultural Association Dongshi Ecological Education Center) Introduction
Zidong Community is located in Dongshi Village, Pingxi District, and belongs to the tea plantation type in the rural landscape of northern Taiwan. Due to its location in a valley with limited arable land area, it is rich in forest resources and water sources, boasting diverse and abundant ecological resources. Additionally, the ancient stone houses within the community are well-preserved, making them an important feature of the area. Significant cultural and historical sites within the community include the Qianzhenkeng Old Path, which offers a taste of local cuisine and environmental education through the Dongshi Ecological Education Center, as well as the hands-on agricultural experiences at Chenjia Shanju and Dengshan Rongzhuang. Visitors can explore the ancient path, visit local farms, and connect with nature. The Dongshi Ecological Education Center, located near Pingxi Elementary School Dongshi Branch in the traditional agricultural area of Dongshi Village in Pingxi District, is a "mountain school" filled with the fragrance of tea and lush greenery, surrounded by mountains and flowing water, rich in ecological resources. The center provides venue services, local delicacies, agricultural experiences, and environmental education opportunities. Chenjia Shanju is located in the Huoshaoliao settlement, where coal mining began during the Japanese occupation and ceased in 1971. The site still retains three mining tunnels known as Benxia Tunnel, Fengkeng Tunnel, and Xinkeng Tunnel. The Stone Ancient Well is a naturally formed giant pot hole created by stream erosion. The owner, Sister Lan of Chenjia Shanju, embodies the traditional spirit of perseverance in maintaining the mountain farmlands for many years and has excellent culinary skills, making her a culinary master in the community. Visitors here can enjoy the experience of harvesting fresh vegetables and making pumpkin cakes and rice dumplings. Dengshan Rongzhuang is located in the Fanzi Keng settlement, at the junction of Pingxi and Pinglin, where visitors can enjoy the scenery of tea plantations. Mr. Gao, the founder of the site, returned to the ancient houses in Fanzi Keng to renovate them in 1996. At the same time, Mr. Gao became a grandfather, naming it Dengshan Rongzhuang in memory of his ancestor Gao Dengshan, passing down the story of filial piety to his great-grandson Gao Rongqian. The ginger and vegetables grown at Dengshan Rongzhuang are cultivated using natural farming methods, aiming to provide safe agricultural products to visitors. The Pingxi Farmers' Association offers firefly viewing tips: 1. Fireflies can be seen in many areas of Pingxi District. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing in natural colors, long sleeves, and pants to avoid mosquito bites; using insect repellent is recommended for those who are afraid of mosquitoes. 2. Wear rain boots or cloth shoes; avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent snake bites, and refrain from entering tall grass to avoid venomous snakes. Be cautious of your surroundings to avoid stepping on frogs or snakes. 3. When viewing fireflies, remind yourself not to scare wild animals, and never chase any wildlife, allowing them to forage and rest freely.
