Dapo Lake is a natural lake wetland in Chishang Township, Taitung County, currently covering about 28 hectares of water (it reached 45 hectares in the 1970s). Its calm surface mirrors the ridgeline of the Central Mountain Range to the west. The wetland has recorded around 106 bird species, with migratory birds gathering in autumn and winter, making it one of the most ecologically valuable wetlands on the Rift Valley plain and a tranquil corner beyond Chishang's agricultural landscape.
Dapo Lake's current water surface covers about 28 hectares, within a designated conservation-use planning area of 41.11 hectares; in the 1970s the lake reached 45 hectares (roughly 900m north-south by 600m east-west) before shrinking due to sedimentation and vegetation encroachment. The wetland has recorded around 106 bird species, including Chinese pond heron, yellow bittern, cinnamon bittern, grey heron, and purple heron. (Source: Chinese Wikipedia, 'Dapo Lake')
Highlights of Dapo Lake
Dapo Lake is located in Dapo Village, Chishang Township, in a low-lying basin within the Rift Valley — a naturally formed freshwater lake. Each autumn and winter, migratory birds from the north pass through or overwinter here, with mallards, egrets, herons, and other species active on the lake surface and lakeshore wetlands, creating rich ecological scenery. Lakeside vegetation is well preserved, and lotus flowers bloom in summer, adding layers to the lake vista.
The lakeside cycling path runs about 5 km in total, with gentle gradients suitable for all ages. Along the way, mountain scenery from both the Central Mountain Range and Coastal Range accompanies you on either side. There are observation platforms at the lakeside — the best spots for capturing reflections of the mountain range on the water. Dapo Lake and the nearby Mr. Brown Avenue can be combined into a relaxed half-day itinerary.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- By car: From the Chishang section of Highway 9, turn onto Dapo Road. The lakeshore parking lot is about 5 minutes away, with ample parking.
- Public transport: Take the Taiwan Railways to Chishang Station, then travel by bicycle or taxi, approximately 10 minutes.
- Recommended visit duration: One full lake loop plus birdwatching stops, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nearby Connections
- Dapo Lake and Mr. Brown Avenue are about 10 minutes apart by car and can be combined into a Chishang half-day itinerary.
- Chishang town center has several bento shops famous for Chishang rice bento; a meal stop there before or after visiting Dapo Lake works well.
Source: Public documents on Dapo Lake and Chishang Township natural ecology data. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is Dapo Lake?
Its current water surface is about 28 hectares, noticeably smaller than the 45 hectares recorded in the 1970s, mainly due to sedimentation and vegetation encroachment.
What birds can be seen at Dapo Lake?
The wetland has recorded around 106 bird species, including Chinese pond herons, bitterns, and purple herons, with especially rich sightings during the autumn-winter migration season.
How long is the lakeside cycling path, and how long does a loop take?
The path is about 5 kilometers with gentle gradients, and a full loop takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes.
Sources
- 大坡池 - 維基百科 — 面積現況與鳥種紀錄