Zidong Community (Pingxi District Agricultural Association Dongshe Ecological Education Center) Introduction
Zidong Community is located in Dongshi Village, Pingxi District, and belongs to the tea garden type within the rural landscape of northern Taiwan. Due to its location in a valley, the area of arable land is small, but it is rich in forest resources and water sources, possessing diverse ecological resources. Additionally, the community's well-preserved stone ancient houses become an important feature resource of the area. Notable sites within the community include the culturally and historically significant "Qianzhen Keng Ancient Trail," the "Dongshi Ecological Education Center," which provides specialty meals and environmental education, as well as "Chen's Mountain Dwelling" and "Dengshan Rongzhuang," where visitors can experience procuring homegrown products and nature. The Dongshi Ecological Education Center is located near the Pingxi District's traditional agricultural area and is surrounded by mountains that create a refreshing environment filled with tea fragrance and greenery. The center provides venue services, specialty meals, agricultural experiences, and environmental education programs. Chen's Mountain Dwelling is situated in Huoshaoliao Village, where coal mining began during the Japanese colonial period, ceasing in the 60th year of the Republic of China, and remnants of three tunnels—Benxia, Fengkeng, and Xinkeng—still remain. The Stone Ancient Well is a natural funnel-shaped landform formed by stream erosion. The homeowner, Sister Lan, embodies the enduring spirit of traditional women, maintaining agricultural land in the mountains for many years while also possessing excellent culinary skills, making her a recognized culinary expert within the community. Visitors can experience harvesting fresh vegetables and enjoy making pumpkin cakes and zongzi. Dengshan Rongzhuang is located in the Fanzi Keng settlement, at the intersection of Pingxi and Pinglin. It offers stunning views of the tea plantations. Mr. Gao, the ancestor of the establishment, returned to the ancient house in Fanzi Keng in the 85th year of the Republic of China with Mr. Gao Mingfu, who was recognized as the grandfather at the time. In honor of Gao’s pioneering legacy, it was named Dengshan Rongzhuang, and the story of filial piety will be passed down through generations. The turmeric and vegetables cultivated at Dengshan Rongzhuang are grown using natural farming methods, aiming to provide safe agricultural products to visitors. The Pingxi Farmers' Association offers firefly watching tips: 1. Many places in Pingxi District are suitable for viewing gleaming fireflies; wear lightweight and comfortable clothing in nature-like colors, preferably long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites. Those who are sensitive to mosquitoes may consider applying insect repellent. 2. Wear rain boots or cloth shoes; avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent snake bites. Stay away from tall grass to minimize encounters with venomous snakes, and watch where you step to avoid stepping on frogs or snakes. 3. While watching fireflies, remind yourself not to scare wild animals, and do not chase any wild animals to allow them to forage and rest freely.
