Boat trip
Between piers.
Photnart — CC BY-SA 4.0 · S099001 — CC0 · LowensteinYang — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Carlquist, Sherwin John, 1930-2021 — CC BY 4.0
Taiwan's largest body of water, a mountain lake among forested hills in the heart of the island, its eastern side shaped like the sun and its western side like a crescent moon, hence the name. At its centre is the small island of Lalu, sacred to the Thao, one of Taiwan's indigenous peoples, who live around the lake. The best way to explore is by boat between its main piers, or by bike along the shoreline path, rated among the world's most beautiful cycle routes. A ropeway climbs from the shore over the mountain to an indigenous culture village, with a wide view of the lake. In the early morning mist covers the water and the hills rise above it in blue layers, and at sunset the lake turns gold. Around it are Wenwu Temple, Ci'en Pagoda, short trails and Ita Thao village with its markets. The lake is free; boats, the ropeway and bikes cost extra. Buses reach it from Taichung's high-speed rail station in about two hours. Taiwan's typhoon season runs from June to October, peaking July to September, so check forecasts before heading to mountains and coasts, per UK travel advice.
Between piers.
Along the shore.
Sacred.
Yuchi Township, Nantou County, central Taiwan
By boat between the main piers, by bike along the shore path, or by the bus that circles the lake.
