Plizio Visual Lab

Liyu Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Liyu Lake, also known as Carp Lake, is the largest inland lake in Hualien County, located in eastern Taiwan. It is situated at the foot of Liyu Mountain, whose shape resembles a jumping carp, giving both the mountain and the lake their names. The lake was formed by the damming of streams due to tectonic uplift and sedimentation processes within the East Rift Valley region. Spanning a circumference of approximately 4 kilometers, it is a premier destination for recreational activities such as boating, cycling, and hiking on its well-maintained perimeter trails. The lake's ecosystem is particularly famous for its firefly season in the spring, when thousands of bioluminescent insects illuminate the shores. Nearby lies the Chinan National Forest Recreation Area, a former hub for the timber industry that now preserves the history of regional forestry. The lake serves as a significant tourist landmark and a vital water resource for local agriculture, embodying the serene natural beauty of Taiwan's eastern coastline.

Location: Taiwan
Top sights: Muguananshan · Muguashan · Dongmuguashan
Nearby: Hualien (10 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	11	12	14	17	20	21	22	21	20	18	15	12
Rain mm	75	69	99	114	261	295	210	327	287	130	106	73

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The lake is typically accessed via regional roads from nearby eastern cities, with regular local bus services and scooter rentals offering easy transport to the shores.

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Best season

Visiting is possible year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather. These seasons are handy for enjoying the lush green hills in mild temperatures.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain around the lake features flat, well-maintained paths that gently follow the water's edge. The surrounding hills offer optional, slightly more challenging walking trails.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing are perfectly adequate for the lakeside paths. Those planning to rent a bicycle might want to bring a light windbreaker or rain jacket.

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Parking

There are usually designated parking lots available near the visitor center or main entrances. On weekends, these spaces can fill up rather quickly with local day-trippers.

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Safety

The area is very safe, but pedestrians should always watch out for cyclists on shared paths. In the warmer months, applying a good insect repellent is highly useful near the water.

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Time needed

You should generally allow two to three hours for a leisurely walk or bike ride around the lake. Visitors renting boats typically end up spending a half day in the area.

Geography

Coordinates

23.93330, 121.51670

Facts

Largest freshwater lake in Hualien County.
Circumference of the lake is approximately 4 kilometers.
Formed by natural damming in the East Rift Valley.
Famous for massive firefly displays in the spring months.
The nearby Chinan museum displays historical logging gear.
Popular venue for the annual Dragon Boat Festival in Hualien.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Farglory Ocean Park10 km · NExplore →

Hualien10 km · NExplore →

Taroko Gorge13 km · WExplore →

Xiulin16 km · NWExplore →

Taroko National Park19 km · SWExplore →

Chongde20 km · NWExplore →

Qilaishan23 km · SWExplore →

Qingshui Cliff24 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Liyu Lake (8)

Muguananshan🌿 nature

Rising in the verdant landscape around Liyu Lake, this southern peak features challenging slopes and dense forest trails.

Muguashan🌿 nature

This prominent mountain summit towers over the lake district, offering an immersive hike through pristine natural woodland.

Dongmuguashan🌿 nature

Forming part of the majestic mountain range near the lake, this eastern peak is surrounded by lush, untouched vegetation.

Tachikawa fishing ground 📍 landmark

This popular recreational fishery allows visitors to try traditional clam digging in shallow, clean water ponds.

Mukumugi Valley 📍 landmark

A scenic valley known for its crystal-clear river streams, marble gorges, and natural swimming pools.

Owai Sha🏺 historical

Historic ruins subtly positioned in the dense, lush tropical vegetation of the Liyu Lake basin.

Meilun Waterfalls📍 landmark

Cascading waterfalls dropping down a rocky, forested gorge into a clear mountain pool.

Quing Feng Market 🎭 culture

A local marketplace bustling with stalls that sell regional agricultural produce and traditional snacks.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you go boating on Liyu Lake?

Yes, pedal boats can be rented for a relaxing tour on the lake.

Is the lake family-friendly?

Absolutely, there are shallow shore areas and many places for picnics.

Can you walk around the lake?

Yes, there is a very beautiful path that leads completely around the lake.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Early in the morning or late in the afternoon is the most peaceful.

Is there food available on site?

Yes, near the entrance you will find a few restaurants with local cuisine.

Liyu Lake: where is it located?

Liyu Lake is located in Taiwan.

Liyu Lake: what is there to see?

Highlights include Muguananshan, Muguashan, Dongmuguashan.

Liyu Lake: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

Liyu Lake: why is it worth visiting?

Liyu Lake, also known as Carp Lake, is the largest inland lake in Hualien County, located in eastern Taiwan.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Liyu Lake

Best time to visit & climate