The Phoenix Nirvana: A Green Ecological Miracle Rising from the South of Kaiyuan

The "Phoenix Nirvana" of the City

1.Located in the southern part of Kaiyuan: City, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Phoenix Ecological Park (Fenghuang Shengtai Gongyuan) stands as a testament to ecological restoration and urban transformation. Covering a total area of approximately 3,500 mu (about 233 hectares), with a core sightseeing area of 1,000 mu, this National 4A-level Tourist Scenic Area sits at the junction of the city's 1,050-meter-high dam area and the surrounding mountains. The park derives its name from the local Phoenix Mountain (Fenghuang Shan), symbolizing the spirit of "Phoenix Nirvana, Rebirth from Fire." Unlike traditional ancient towns or purely natural landscapes, Phoenix Ecological Park represents a modern "Ecological Green Lung" for the city. It has transformed from what was once a barren mountain area into a vibrant landscape integrating mountains, water, forests, fields, and lakes, creating a harmonious "community of life" that serves as a leisure retreat for locals and a scenic destination for travelers.

Phoenix Lake: The Emerald Eye

2.The heart of the park is Phoenix: Lake (Fenghuang Hu). The expansive water surface reflects the drifting clouds and distant mountains, creating a tranquil mirror in the center of the bustling city. A carefully designed ecological wetland system surrounds the lake, featuring wooden boardwalks that wind through reeds and aquatic plants. This area is a "Secret Realm" of water and flowers, where the water flows naturally through a terraced design, attracting egrets and other waterbirds. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalks, breathing in the fresh air and observing the vibrant aquatic ecosystem. The lake is not just a visual centerpiece but a functional wetland that regulates the local microclimate, embodying the park's ecological mission.

A Valley of Flowers

3.Phoenix Ecological: Park is renowned for its spectacular Flower Sea landscapes. The park features a "Flower Valley" (Hua Qian Gu) and a "Garden of Hundred Flowers," where seasonal blooms create a colorful tapestry against the green backdrop. In spring, peach blossoms and cherry blossoms form clouds of pink; in other seasons, vast fields of purple verbena (often mistaken for lavender) create a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere. The park also includes a Cactus Garden and a Stone Garden, showcasing a diversity of plant species. Whether it is the golden hues of autumn or the vibrant colors of spring, the park offers a visual feast for photographers and nature lovers year-round.

Climbing Phoenix Mountain

For those seeking adventure and panoramic views, Phoenix Mountain offers multiple forest hiking trails. As you ascend the stone steps, you enter a "natural oxygen bar" filled with lush ecological forests. The air here is fresh and invigorating. Upon reaching the viewing platform at the summit, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama: the emerald Phoenix Lake, the colorful flower fields, the winding paths, and the entire urban skyline of Kaiyuan City set against the distant mountains. It is the perfect spot to witness the sunrise bathing the city in golden light or the sunset casting long shadows over the valley.

Memories of Time

The park also blends cultural elements with nature. On a lawn in a quiet corner of the park, visitors can find a Retro Green Train Carriage. This installation, known as the "Time Station," evokes memories of the region's railway history (Kaiyuan was an important hub on the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway). The static train set against the vibrant greenery creates a nostalgic scene, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the passage of time. Combined with the European-style Clock Tower and classical Chinese pavilions scattered throughout the park, these architectural elements add a layer of cultural depth to the natural scenery.