Scenic area revives mythical utopia

Changde is believed to be the utopia that Tao was describing in his fable, and today the city is home to the popular Taohuayuan scenic spot.

Located in Taoyuan county, which means peach blossom land, the scenic area has undergone a three-year reconstruction project which started at the end of 2014 at a cost of 10 billion yuan ($1.59 billion). The area reopened to the public in September 2017.

Taohuayuan now offers the public improved landscapes and services, and is ready to apply for a 5A scenic rating－the nation's highest-level, said Gao Yangxian, deputy director of the Hunan Tourism Development Commission.

"Tao's fable has not only added unique cultural charms and attractions to Changde, but has also played an important role in promoting the tourism industry in Hunan province as a whole," Gao added.

On March 25, the Taohuayuan scenic resort hosted a peach blossom festival, which Gao said was the first important tourist event in Hunan this year and served as a focal point for the province's new tourism image.