As one of the 7 biggest fresh water lakes in China and the largest highland lake next to Dianchi Lake, Erhai Lake has been a well-known destination for tourists for its beautiful natural scenery. But now, high-rise villas have been built on the land that was formed by filling the Valentine Lake, an extending harbor of Erhai Lake, which has put it at the center of opinions. Critics say that the world famous scenic spot has been turned into the garden of the rich.

Located at the south bank of Erhai Lake, Erhai Park is the first stop for visiting Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake Scenic Area. The Tuanshan Mountain inside the park once was a royal deer ranch of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Built in 1976, the park covers 1700 mu of land.

The Valentine Lake, an extending harbor of Erhai Lake once was an excellent public recreational land. Lovers liked boating on the lake very much, hence it got the name.

A plan has been passed to rebuild the Erhai Lake in July of 2005. In 2008 when the park was reopen, the most beautiful spot of the park---the Valentine Lake has been found to be replaced by a villa area named “Erhai Heaven”.

Director of Planning Bureau of Dali City told reporters of China Youth Daily that it is true that the villas have been built on the lake, but most of the lake is still remaining. The Commission for Discipline Inspection has involved in the investigation, and they promise release their findings. (Editor: Minnie Mao)