Leave the city behind as you travel to this secluded 28.5 hectares of perfectly manicured nature. Currently 1,300 years old, this park has seen countless people stroll through its gardens, including the great feudal leaders who would take a break from the burdens of the job by retiring to this calming retreat. It is said that the King of the Dai people once brought his princess to this treasured spot, and she was so bowled over by its intense beauty that she lost her soul in the park, giving it the nickname “Chunhuan Park”, translating to soul park.

Premier Zhou En Lai himself attended a water splashing festival here, reveling in the festivities and celebration with the Dai. In his name, a bronze statue was erected to commemorate this significant day in history, visible just beyond the entrance. Slightly to its left grow two trees which the princeess of Thailand herself planted as a symbol of the good relations between Thailand and China. Gorgeously designed pavilions sporting the Dai style of architecture and fringed by palm trees are distributed throughout the park. Of particular note is the Xishuangbanna-Wa ba Jie Temple, which features a white stupa and unique octagonal pavilion. Here you can offer incense to Buddha, and observe the Palm-leaf Scripture, traditional Buddhist practices.

If you’re starting to think this doesn’t sound all that wonderful, prepare to be proven wrong. A peacock park where these shimmering, eye-catching creatures strut back and forth as they please, showing off their mesmerizing tail feathers, as well as an elephant park where these gentle giants roam and perform tricks is also on site. A place of only happy memories, the coming together of people to take respite from the harmonious powers of nature to heal and unite.