Shidongsi Village of Luodang Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

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Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县洛党镇箐头村委会石洞寺村
English Name: Shidongsi Village of Luodang Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

Shidongsi Village, located in the mountainous area of Luodang Town (洛党镇) in Fengqing County (凤庆县), is listed as a traditional Chinese village. The village is situated in the southwest of Luodang Town, approximately 0.3 kilometers from Qingtou Village Committee and 6 kilometers from the town government seat.

Location and Overview

Shidongsi Village lies 30 kilometers from Fengqing County and is 16 kilometers from the town government seat. The area is known for its steep, mountainous terrain. The village is renowned for the famous Shidong Temple (石洞寺), which is located on a mountain peak, offering visitors not only cultural insights but also breathtaking natural beauty.

Major Attractions

Shidong Temple

Shidong Temple, built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty in 1794 and renovated in 1926, is one of the prominent attractions in Fengqing County. The temple complex includes the Yunyan Twin Pavilions (云岩双阁), which are perched atop two massive rocks, connected by a stone bridge. These pavilions offer a unique fusion of natural and architectural beauty.

Yunyan Twin Pavilions: The left pavilion is called Yunyan Pavilion (云岩阁), while the right is Qingxu Pavilion (清虚阁). These pavilions are connected by a sky bridge, and the area beneath the stones features a natural stone cave and a lotus pond.

Ancient Camellia Tree: The Nine Pistils and Eighteen Petals Camellia (九芯十八瓣茶花) is over two hundred years old and located in the temple courtyard. This ancient tree is known for its vibrant blooms and is considered a living legend in the world of camellias.

Historical Significance: The temple has a strong connection to Taoist beliefs. Local legend has it that a woman named Mei (梅) from Taohua Village (桃花村) raised funds to build the temple after fleeing an arranged marriage. She later became known as Daoist Mei, and the temple became famous for its sacred sounds heard every year on the fifteenth day of the second lunar month.

Cultural and Historical Legends

The temple and its surroundings are steeped in local myths and folklore, adding to the mystique of the area. One well-known legend involves a celestial being who, using a celestial whip, moved large rocks down the mountain to create an artificial lake for irrigation purposes. Due to the stones’ mischievous transformation into sheep, the stones are believed to have been transformed into their current form and are now part of the temple’s picturesque landscape.

Poetry Inscribed on the Rock Walls:
“Looking at Yunyan, many caves, two flying pavilions, breaking through the night sky; the temple is deeply hidden, winding paths, with a rainbow bridge, soaring high; the pond is clear, the green moss is vibrant, the bamboo is dark green, the pine is lush; the stone gate opens, celestial guests enter, floating, attending to the ancient Buddha.”

Festival Activities

The temple is the center of local festivals, especially the Tea Flower Exhibition held during the Chinese New Year. Visitors can enjoy various folk performances, such as the bamboo pole dance and choral singing, which attract both locals and tourists alike.

Travel Information

How to Get There

By Car

From Fengqing County (临沧市凤庆县), take the Yunfeng Highway (云凤公路), which takes about 30 minutes. The road is winding, so it is recommended to use an off-road vehicle for safety.

By Public Transport

There are buses from Fengqing County to Qingtou Village (箐头村), which is close to Shidongsi Village. However, bus schedules are infrequent, so it’s best to confirm timings in advance.

By Private Car

Private car hire is available, and the one-way cost is approximately 80 CNY. This service is ideal for those without a self-driving option.

Accommodation and Dining Recommendations

Accommodation

Shuangge Homestay (双阁农家乐) is located in the Shidong Temple area, offering local, simple accommodations with distinctive Yi ethnic cuisine.

Heqiangu Guesthouse (凤庆禾千谷民宿), located about 915 meters from the temple, offers eco-tourism and agricultural experiences. It is highly rated with a score of 4.6.

In Fengqing County (凤庆县) or Luodang Town (洛党镇), more accommodation options are available, such as the Dianhong Hotel (滇红大酒店), which offers rooms ranging from 150-300 CNY per night.

Dining

Shuangge Homestay serves traditional Yi ethnic dishes, including local specialties.

Fengqing County and Luodang Town offer various dining options, including local restaurants serving delicious tea flowers and other regional delicacies.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 07:00 PM.

Visitor Tips: The area experiences rapidly changing mountain weather, so it’s advisable to bring rain gear. Some roads are made of loose gravel, so exercise caution when driving.

Safety Tips

Weather: The region is known for its fluctuating weather, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing.

Road Conditions: Some roads are narrow and winding, requiring careful navigation. It’s recommended to travel in a group if possible.

Best Time to Visit

Shidongsi Village and Shidong Temple are ideal for visits throughout the year due to the area’s pleasant climate and scenic views that change with the seasons. However, the best time to visit is during the Tea Flower Festival in the Chinese New Year period or during the autumn months (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful.