Kaiyuan Phoenix Ecological Park in Spring

Kaiyuan, located in the central part of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, was once known as the "Pearl of Southern Yunnan" due to the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway and its status as a major industrial center for coal, chemicals, and sugar. However, industrial pollution significantly impacted its natural environment. After years of remediation, the Phoenix Ecological Park, situated between the new and old city areas, showcases the revitalized ecosystem and the city's transformation from industrial gray to ecological green. The Phoenix Tower exhibition hall atop the park offers a glimpse into Kaiyuan's history, from its ancient Dian Kingdom origins to its time as the Republican-era Ami County, and finally to its present form as a pleasant, multi-ethnic city. A morning stroll along the park's greenway reveals blooming yellow tabebuia and a variety of other plants and flowers. The sounds of birdsong and the vibrant colors create a cheerful atmosphere, with the Phoenix Tower visible in the background. Descending the hill, past the yellow tabebuia path, leads to the 1909 Square by Phoenix Lake, where you might catch a glimpse of a meter-gauge train. You can also take a passenger train from Kaiyuan Meter Gauge Railway Station for a scenic journey, an experience comparable to that of the Bisezhai Railway Station in Mengzi. The 1909 area also displays historic locomotives and train cars. The park is expansive, with well-maintained paths. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended for walking, as the terrain involves frequent uphill and downhill sections. The park is accessible by car, with a parking lot at the entrance on Fenghuang Road and parking spaces along the roads near the train station and 1909 Square by Phoenix Lake. Taxis are also an affordable option. For dining, it's best to head into the city center, which also offers a wider selection of accommodation and shopping options. Kaiyuan is highly recommended!