Pihe Flying Stone in Fugong County, Nujiang
The Enchanting “Flying Stone” of Pihe: A Mystical Marvel in Yunnan’s Nujiang Valley
Nestled along the dramatic banks of the Nujiang River, in the heart of Fugong County’s Pihe Township, lies a geological wonder that defies imagination—the “Flying Stone” (飞来石 Fēi Lái Shí). This colossal boulder, weighing over 500 tons and standing 3 meters tall with a 2-meter diameter, is not just a natural spectacle but a living legend that blends mystery, history, and awe-inspiring serendipity.
🌟 A Miracle Frozen in Time
On the stormy night of March 19, 1983, at 2:30 AM, the quiet campus of Pihe Ethnic Middle School was shattered by a thunderous roar. Out of the darkness, a massive stone plummeted from the mist-cloaked mountains above, landing perfectly in the center of a teachers’ courtyard—without harming a single soul. It grazed the edge of a roof, leaving only a tiny mark, as if guided by an invisible hand. Imagine: 12 teachers slept just meters away, untouched, while the stone settled like a celestial visitor choosing its resting place. Today, the building still stands, its wall hugging the stone’s rugged surface—a testament to a moment where nature danced with fate.
📜 Tales Woven in Stone
The Flying Stone carries whispers of two captivating legends:
- The Lovers’ Oath (鸳鸯石 Yuān Yāng Shí): Locals say this is the “male stone,” reunited with its “female counterpart”—a sister boulder resting beneath a nearby house. Together, they symbolize eternal love, their story echoing the Nujiang Canyon’s rugged beauty and tender heart.
- The Guardian of Knowledge (镇教之石 Zhèn Jiào Zhī Shí): Many believe the stone is a divine blessing for the school. It’s said to promise a future of scholarly brilliance, where students rise like eagles from the valley—a symbol of hope that has inspired generations.
🌍 Why Visit This Marvel?
- Natural Drama Meets Human Story: Stand beneath the stone and marvel at its sheer size—bigger than a bus!—while imagining the night it fell. The juxtaposition of its raw, moss-speckled surface against the school’s humble buildings creates a surreal, almost cinematic scene.
- Cultural Crossroads: Pihe Township is home to the Lisu, Nu, and Dulong ethnic groups. Explore their vibrant traditions—colorful festivals, soul-stirring folk songs, and hearty local cuisine like chuosiba (a millet paste)—while listening to elders weave tales of the stone.
- Scenic Splendor: The Flying Stone sits within the Nujiang Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage candidate. Hike along the river’s turquoise waters, gaze at mist-shrouded peaks, or visit nearby Shimen Pass, where the Nujiang carves through towering cliffs.
🚶♂️ Your Journey Here
Just 46 km south of Fugong County Town, the stone is easily accessible by road. Visit the Pihe Ethnic Middle School (ask for permission to enter—locals are warm and welcoming!), then take time to wander the campus. Feel the cool mountain air, hear students’ laughter, and let the stone’s story spark your imagination. Best visited between October and April, when the valley is clear and the weather mild.
🌌 A Stone That Defies Explanation
Is it a meteorological marvel? A divine omen? Or simply a once-in-a-lifetime geological fluke? The Flying Stone of Pihe asks you to set aside logic and embrace the magic. It’s a place where nature’s power and human resilience converge, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder that lingers long after the journey ends.
Come witness where the sky touched the earth—and let the legend of the Flying Stone carry you away. 🌄
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