Shiyi Stepping Stones

Shiyi Stepping Stones

The Shiyi Stepping Stones are a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Shiyi Stepping Stones, located in Xidong Village, Shiyang Town, were built during the Jiaqing era of the Qing Dynasty. They span a flat, wide section of the river in Xidong Village with gentle water flow. The structure stretches 144 meters in length and consists of 233 stepping stones, each divided into two levels — a higher one for people carrying shoulder poles or for use during high water, and a lower one that allows two people to walk side by side.

The builders also put considerable thought into the choice of stone materials: the higher steps are made of white granite, while the lower ones are made of bluestone. This combination of color and stone type is not only aesthetically pleasing but also allows night travelers to navigate easily by the reflection of starlight and moonlight. During floods, passersby can still clearly see the steps. There is also deeper symbolism: the stone represents firmness, signifying endurance through the years; the white color symbolizes clarity, ensuring safe passage.

Transportation

There are many buses from Sankui to Shiyang, with the latest departure before 4 pm. The journey takes just over half an hour and passes by the Xu Family Courtyard in Xuexi.

Xidong Village: Basic Information

Xidong Village in Shiyang Town is the seat of the Shiyang Town People's Government. It was formed by merging seven former villages: Xidong, Lingkeng, Zhukeng, Shuangyang, Shaqiu, Shizhuhou, and Shihou, covering an area of 11.39 square kilometers. It currently has a population of 4,809, with 1,510 households, and includes 13 natural villages and 50 villager groups. … Xidong Village detailed information++

Further Reading:

· Sixth Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units