Which Chinese limestone formation is often called the Stone Forest? Shilin.
Shilin, literally meaning “Stone Forest,” is a spectacular limestone formation in Yunnan province, China. Its tall, jagged pillars resemble trees rising from the ground, giving the landscape its memorable name. The formation lies in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, about 90 kilometres east of Kunming.
The landscape developed through karst processes. The area was once a shallow sea where thick limestone accumulated during the Permian Period. After uplift, rainwater and groundwater gradually dissolved and weathered the rock, leaving narrow towers, blades and pinnacles. Some estimates place the formations’ development over 270 million years ago.
Shilin is also associated with the Yi people and the legend of Ashima, a young woman said to have turned to stone. The Naigu Stone Forest and Suogeyi Village became part of the UNESCO South China Karst World Heritage Site in 2007. Guilin is also famous for limestone scenery, but Shilin is the specific Stone Forest.