Liyu Lake | Hualien Attraction

Liyu Lake is located in Shoufeng Township, covering approximately 1.13 square kilometers, making it the largest inland lake in Hualien County. The shoreline circuit stretches about 5 km. The lakeside is planted with casuarina and acacia trees, and the surrounding Rift Valley mountain ranges reflect clearly on the water's surface. It is one of the most relaxed half-day natural destinations in the Hualien-Taitung Rift Valley.

Highlights of Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake is a natural lake on the Rift Valley plain, with no factories or large-scale development in the surrounding area, keeping the lake surface in a relatively pristine state. Carp, grass carp, and other freshwater fish inhabit the lake, attracting a variety of water birds to forage here. The lakeside vegetation is dominated by casuarina trees, acacia trees, and bamboo groves that display different colors in different seasons. On clear days, the reflections of the Central Mountain Range and the Xiuguluan mountain system are sharply visible on the water.

The lakeside cycling path is smooth and the full 5 km circuit has no significant inclines, making it suitable for all ages. Several parking areas and rest facilities are available around the lake, and water activities such as kayaking and swan paddle boats are available for rent. Liyu Hill rises on the southern side of the lake, shaped like a carp leaping from the water — the origin of the lake's name. The summit offers a bird's-eye view of the entire lake; the hiking trail takes about 30 minutes one way.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

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Cycle the Lake CircuitRent a bicycle and ride the 5 km loop. Lake views, mountain reflections, and shaded stretches alternate along the way at an easy, relaxed pace. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours.

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Try the Water ActivitiesKayaks and swan paddle boats are available to rent lakeside. The perspective from the water — looking back at the surrounding mountains — is entirely different from what you see on shore.

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Hike Liyu Hill for a Panoramic ViewThe Liyu Hill trail takes about 30 minutes to reach the summit, where you can look down over the full lake and the Rift Valley mountain scenery. The view is especially dramatic in the early morning when mist drifts through.

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Come in the Early Morning for MistIn spring and autumn, a thin mist often hangs over the lake surface in the morning, layering water vapor and mountain reflections into an atmospheric scene. It's worth planning an early start for this.

Practical Information

Getting There & Time

Located in Liyu Lake Village, Shoufeng Township, about a 20–25-minute drive from Hualien City, or take the Taiwan Railways to Shoufeng Station and transfer by shuttle or taxi.
If you plan to combine the lake circuit cycling with the hill hike, allow a half day (3 to 4 hours). A lakeside stroll or cycling trip alone takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Bicycle rental stands are located near the entrance to the lake road. Bikes can run short on busy weekends — arriving early is recommended.

Nearby Connections

Shoufeng Township has additional attractions including Yunshanyuan Dream Lake and the Fengtian Immigrant Village, which can be combined for a deeper half-day tour of Shoufeng.
Heading south, the route can be extended to Guangfu Sugar Factory in Guangfu Township, forming a mid-Rift Valley one-day itinerary.

Sources: Hualien County Tourism Bureau; Shoufeng Township Office. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own photography.

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