Shidong Village Cave in Pingbian County, Honghe
Overview
Shidong Village Cave (石洞村溶洞) is located in Jimi Shidong Village (吉咪石洞村), Xinxian Township (新现乡), Pingbian Miao Autonomous County (屏边苗族自治县) of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Nestled in a karst landscape, this cave is positioned at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters. The cave itself is oriented north-south, standing 20 meters tall, 70 meters wide, and 50 meters deep. Inside, visitors can find a variety of stalactites and stalagmites that contribute to a grand, cathedral-like interior, capable of accommodating hundreds of visitors. Historically, the cave was inhabited by several Miao families before and after the Liberation, leading to the village’s name.
Geographic and Climatic Features
Shidong Village is situated in the Yungui Plateau (云贵高原), characterized by its diverse geographical features, including limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, plains, and hills. The region’s elevation differences result in complex terrain, with significant rainfall and abundant sunlight throughout the year. The climate is primarily classified as a subtropical plateau monsoon climate, marked by high humidity and moderate temperature variations.
Due to the Tropic of Cancer crossing through the prefecture, temperatures and humidity levels increase from north to south, leading to distinctly warm and humid conditions. The rainy season in Honghe typically occurs from May to October, while the frost period spans from late November to the following January and February. Thus, the optimal time to visit Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture is during the mild months of March to April and September to November, avoiding the rainy summer and autumn.
The Transformation of Shidong Village: A Paradise on Earth
Recently, visitors to Shidong Village are greeted by well-preserved traditional architecture featuring blue tiles, rammed earth walls, and wooden structures. The mysterious cave and the rocky peaks above the entrance create an enchanting atmosphere, reminiscent of a hidden “paradise.”
In recent years, local party organizations in Pingbian County have focused on enhancing community development by strengthening organization, transforming mindsets, promoting economic growth, and increasing local vitality. These efforts have led to a remarkable transformation of Shidong Village from poverty alleviation to rural revitalization. The village has built 3.8 kilometers of asphalt road, the first of its kind connecting a natural village in Pingbian County. Previous issues of pollution and disorder have been addressed, resulting in improved living conditions and a refreshed village appearance. The village has received recognition as a state-level civilized village and a provincial-level sanitary village.
Wang Chaogui (王朝贵), the Party Secretary of Jimi Village, noted, “The village invested 400,000 yuan to excavate 12 kilometers of road; over 10 million yuan has been spent on infrastructure development, such as water, electricity, roads, sewage systems, public squares, and the renovation of traditional residences, all while preserving local aesthetics and rural character.”
Shidong Village is home to a diverse population comprising four ethnic groups: Han (汉), Miao (苗), Yao (瑶), and Yi (彝). The village has a registered population of 187 individuals in 45 households and a permanent population of 130 in 32 households. Last year, the village achieved full poverty alleviation.
The village promotes agricultural development by cultivating various crops: 150 acres of apples, 1,200 acres of loquats, 600 acres of oranges, 90 acres of peaches, 1,300 acres of grass fruit, and 150 acres of star anise. The local community has actively engaged in employment training programs, resulting in over 100 residents finding local jobs in 2019. The number of registered impoverished households has dramatically decreased from 19 households with 83 individuals in 2014 to zero in 2019. Currently, the per capita net income in Shidong Village has increased from 3,200 yuan in 2014 to 8,100 yuan in 2019.
Additionally, the village capitalizes on its unique cultural heritage and resources, including Pearl Cave (珍珠洞), Dahei Mountain (大黑山), beacon towers (烽火台), and the Ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), to promote rural tourism and boost the local economy. By implementing four key measures—regular public outreach, institutionalized patrols, regulated production, and incentivized afforestation—the community works to strengthen its ecological environment. The forest coverage rate has reached over 80%, attracting rock bees (岩蜂) to breed in the clean environment. The number of rock bee nests on the peaks above Pearl Cave has increased annually, reaching 65 this year.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Buses are available from Kunming (昆明) to Pingbian County, typically taking around 6-7 hours. Check local schedules for exact times and routes.
- Local Transport: Upon arriving in Pingbian, taxis or local buses can be used to reach Shidong Village. It’s advisable to arrange transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Private Car: Renting a car offers the flexibility to explore the scenic areas surrounding Shidong Village at your own pace. The drive provides beautiful views of the karst landscape and surrounding villages.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit during March to April or September to November for the best weather and scenic beauty.
- Cultural Respect: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with the various ethnic communities. Engage respectfully and be open to learning.
- Stay Hydrated: The rural setting may involve physical activities, so ensure you drink plenty of water throughout your visit.
- Photography: Capture the stunning natural beauty of the cave and surrounding landscapes, but always ask for permission before photographing locals.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies, which reflect the rich cultural heritage and flavors of the region.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear suitable footwear and clothing for exploring the caves and hiking in the region, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Language: While Mandarin is commonly spoken, familiarity with basic phrases in the local dialects can enhance your interactions.
- Environmental Awareness: Help preserve the natural beauty of the area by following the “Leave No Trace” principles during your visit.
