Shiyang saw its heyday during the Ming Dynasty, when its supply and production of salt reached dizzying heights. It is located roughly 125 kilometers northwest of Kunming. A small river cuts right through the heart of Shiyang and its wealth of lush green, dense forests, dotted by temples.

The ancient town is dotted with many cultural relics, among them the famous Confucius Temple is certainly worth a visit. Sitting at the foot of a mountain overlooking the town, the temple was built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty. A copper statue of Confucius, who expounded the philosophy of personal and state morality 2,000 years ago, is enshrined within the sanctuary walls. Boasting a weight of 2,500 kilograms and standing at a height of more than two meters, the statue is one only a few such in the entire country.