Mingde Reservoir is a reservoir in Touwu Township, Miaoli County, completed in 1970 with a 187-meter dam crest and roughly 170 hectares of surface area at full pool. The lake is calm and expansive, its lakeside trail hugs the shoreline, lotus flowers bloom every summer, and a birdwatching platform on a small island welcomes an easy countryside stroll.
Construction of Mingde Reservoir began in June 1966 and was completed in May 1970. It is an earth-fill dam 35.5 meters high with a 187-meter dam crest, a full-pool surface area of about 170 hectares, and a 61-square-kilometer catchment area, fed by the Laotianliao Creek, a tributary of the Houlong River.
Highlights of Mingde Reservoir
The top of the main dam is walkable and offers a panoramic view of the reservoir. The lakeside trail has pavilions and rest areas along the shore; the route is relatively flat and suitable for general walking. A small island in the lake called Bird Island (Niaoyü) has a wooden boardwalk extending to a birdwatching observation platform; various waterbirds gather there during the winter migratory season.
Every summer (approximately June to August), the lotus pond enters its bloom period, filling the lakeshore with vivid color — the most appealing seasonal scene at Mingde Reservoir. Weekend crowds of photographers are common; an early morning visit is recommended for soft light and fewer people. Certain areas around the reservoir are restricted — follow all on-site instructions.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- By car: Exit at Toufen Interchange on National Freeway 1, take Provincial Highway 6 or head toward Touwu to reach Mingde Reservoir — about 20 to 30 minutes; parking available on site.
- Public transport: Miaoli Bus has routes to Touwu, but the reservoir is still a walk or transfer away from the township center. Driving or cycling is recommended.
- Open all day; no admission fee. The lotus area can be crowded on weekends during bloom season — note parking availability.
Nearby Connections
- Touwu Township Center: about 5 minutes by car from the reservoir — good for a meal or supplies.
- Miaoli City: about 15 minutes by car — connects to Miaoli Station or other city attractions.
- Shitan Township: heading east from Touwu leads to Shitan Mountain, suitable for combining into a countryside half-day or full-day itinerary.
Source: Miaoli County Touwu Township Office; Taiwan Reservoir Real-Time Information Network. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mingde Reservoir completed?
Mingde Reservoir was completed in May 1970, after construction began in June 1966.
How large is Mingde Reservoir's surface area?
At full pool, Mingde Reservoir covers about 170 hectares, smaller than the 270 hectares sometimes cited online.
What season is best to visit?
Lotus flowers bloom from June to August, the reservoir's signature season, while November to March draws migratory birds to the island platform.
Sources
- 水利署全球資訊網-主要水庫簡介-明德水庫 — 完工年份、壩高、集水面積等官方數據
- 明德水庫 - 維基百科 — 壩頂長度187公尺、滿水位面積170公頃