In an elephant training school in Chiangmai, the elephants prove they are more than just a means of transportation or a war machine.

They can be a skillful masseur. They can easily take to the harmonica, and dance to the tunes they play. They even enjoy playing football, possibly as much as Brazil's Ronaldinho. And just look at that fake pass! But sometimes they do miss the ball.

Their most impressive skill is their art.

A tourist from India said:"We like the painting thing. The beautiful paintings they made. They drew flowers and trees. Very nice. They are our favorite."

A tourist from Malaysia said:"Interesting! exciting! I like the show very much! I like how they draw the paintings. They know how to draw the trees, flowers and the elephants are very good."

Behind these impressive skills is an arduous training process. Elephant babies begin learning when they are four years old. It takes six years before their "graduation". Their trainers are usually their best friends.

An elephant trainer said:"I'm very happy to be an elephant trainer. These elephants are very smart. I taught my elephant to draw paintings, and he is learning very quickly. Visitors also bought his paintings. He is an artist. I'm so proud of him."

Elephants are an important part of Thai culture and the Thai way of life. They are a traditional symbol of royal power, an essential feature of Buddhist art and architecture, and interesting means of transportation. So you will not be surprised if you see elephants are being all around.

Editor:Luyuying