Tao, Qian

Peach Blossom Shangri-la: Tao Hua Yuan Ji

A fisherman following a stream discovers a grove of peach blossoms, then a hidden opening in a mountain that leads to a secluded valley. There he finds a community living in peace, cut off from the troubles of the wider world since the time of the Qin Dynasty. He shares news of the outside world, is warmly hosted, and later tries to lead others back, but the path is lost. The story ends with the sense that this perfect place remains beyond ordinary reach.