In this undated photo, workers in Zhang’s team dig pits with electric picks. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

'Awaiting the phoenix'

So far, Zhang has put 1.1 billion yuan ($157.28 million), all from his own pocket, into the project.

"I'm over 100 million yuan ($14.28 million) in debt, which worries me so much I smoke four packets of cigarettes a day," Zhang said, revealing 50 million yuan ($7.14 million) each year goes into the park's maintenance and upgrading.

Despite all that, Zhang still holds a rosy outlook.

"As the saying goes, the phoenix will come as long as the Wutong trees (Chinese parasols) are planted," Zhang said. "What I'm doing is planting Wutong trees."

Zhang looks to complete the greening task at Yuquan Mountain in five years, while building and optimizing infrastructure and entertainment facilities.

Zhang believes more tourists and investment will come soon, as the local government is building more roads leading to the park. The site is already an ecological education base for teachers and students from all over.