Gushandong Paleolithic Site in Hekou County, Honghe
Overview
Chinese Name: 孤山洞遗址 (Gushandong Yizhi)
Location: Northeast of Hekou Yao Autonomous County (河口瑶族自治县), approximately 60 kilometers from Qiaotou Grain Depot (桥头粮管所)
Protection Level: Cultural Relic Protection Unit (文物保护单位)
Era: Paleolithic Era (旧石器时代)
Unearthed Artifacts: Chipped stone tools, fossils of the Eastern Saber-toothed Tiger (东方剑齿象), Chinese Rhinoceros (中国犀牛), deer (鹿), and rodents (鼠)
Site Description
The Gushandong site is a significant Paleolithic cave located in the lush environment of Hekou Yao Autonomous County. The cave opens to the northeast and features a height of 2.6 meters and a depth of 6 meters, forming a circular shape. A natural stone pillar supports the smooth ceiling, and the activity area spans about 10 square meters. A clear river flows nearby, enhancing the site’s natural beauty.
Archaeological Discoveries
In 1980, excavations revealed artifacts and fossils dating back approximately 30,000 years, including chipped stone tools and mammal remains. The site was officially recognized as a cultural relic protection unit in 1984. Significant discoveries continued in 1982, including ivory fossils of the Eastern Saber-toothed Tiger. Workers unearthed scrapers made from diorite and a bone needle, demonstrating early tool-making techniques. Additional fossils from the Upper Paleolithic period (晚更新世) included those of the Chinese Rhinoceros, Eastern Saber-toothed Tiger, deer, and rodents, dating back around 35,000 years.
Historical Significance
The Gushandong Paleolithic Site provides valuable insights into ancient human life and their environment in the Honghe region. It is a crucial archaeological resource for studying the cultural and historical development of early humans.
Online Resources
For more information about the Gushandong Paleolithic Site and attractions in Hekou, visit:
How to Get There
Transportation Options
- By Bus: Regular buses connect major cities, including Kunming (昆明), to Hekou. Local transport is available to reach the site.
- By Car: Driving from Kunming to Hekou via G320 National Highway (G320国道) offers picturesque views along the way.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal visiting period is from October (10月) to April (4月) when weather conditions are more favorable.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore local markets and other historical sites in Hekou.
- Respect the Site: As a significant archaeological location, visitors should follow preservation guidelines to protect the site.
The Gushandong Paleolithic Site stands as a remarkable testament to early human history and a vital resource for archaeological studies in the region.
