Historically known as “Guo Sheng Harbor (國聖港),” Qigu Lagoon (七股潟湖) is referred to as Naihaizai in Chinese (Inland Sea 內海仔) or Lāi-hái-á (潟湖) in Taiwanese. It is an enchanting natural gem nestled in the scenic expanse of Taijiang National Park in southern Taiwan’s Tainan City. It is renowned for its ecological significance and serene beauty, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Taiwan’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Watch the following video for more exciting images of the fantastic Qigu Lagoon in Tainan, Taiwan.
Characteristics of Qigu Lagoon
Located on the westernmost tip of the island of Taiwan, Qigu Lagoon is a shallow body of water surrounded by coastal sandbars and concave coastal terrain. Covering approximately 1,600 hectares (3,953 acres) between the Qigu River and the Zengwen River, the lagoon is Taiwan’s largest and most intact wetland and the only remaining remnant of Taiwan’s historic Taijiang Inland Sea.
As one of the most unique and rare landscapes in Taiwan, Qigu Lagoon has four offshore sandbars: Dingtone Barrier Land (頂頭額汕), Wangzailiao Barrier Land (網仔寮汕), Qinshangang Barrier Land (青山港汕), and Xinfulun Barrier Land (新浮崙汕). These sandbars play a crucial role in protecting the lagoon from the direct impact of waves, providing a suitable environment for local aquaculture and a habitat for many creatures.
Revered as the last vestige of untouched land in western Taiwan, the lagoon supplies clean seawater to nearby fish farms and acts as a natural filtration system for the water discharged from these farms, making the Qigu Coast a vital breeding center for marine fish in Taiwan.
The ecological significance of Qigu Lagoon
The lagoon receives nutrients from inland rivers, fostering a diverse ecological food chain. Its fishery resources are 30 times greater than those of the coral reefs. It serves as a critical habitat for juvenile fish and provides refuge for fish during cold spells and typhoons.
This serene marine environment nurtures a thriving ecosystem teeming with fish, shellfish, oysters, crabs, shrimp, mangroves, and amphibians. The lagoon supports 125 species of fish, 73 species of shellfish, and over 30 species of crabs.
In particular, Qigu Lagoon’s vast mudflats are also an essential habitat for numerous bird species, especially during the winter when migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Northern China make their temporary homes here.
The black-faced spoonbill’s winter refuge
Qigu Lagoon is a vital habitat for the endangered black-faced spoonbill. Each year, many black-faced spoonbills migrate to Qigu Lagoon during the winter months, typically arriving in September or October and staying until March to May of the following year.
In fact, the lagoon’s distinctive and diverse environment has drawn more than half of the endangered black-faced spoonbills to winter in Taiwan. According to a survey conducted by the Tainan Ecological Conservation Association in October 2023, over 1,500 migratory black-faced spoonbills were recorded staying in the Qigu Lagoon area. This significant population of spoonbills highlights the critical importance of Qigu Lagoon as a crucial wintering habitat for this endangered species.
An ecotour of Qigu Lagoon
The best way to explore Qigu Lagoon is to go on a recreational fishing raft at the pier in Longshan Community. Prices for a guided boat tour of the lagoon range from NT$250 (US$8) to NT$350 (US$11). Throughout the excursion, a knowledgeable guide provides fascinating ecological insights, introducing visitors to the unique natural ecology and geographical features of the inland sea.
The fishing rafts eventually arrive at an isolated offshore sandbank known as Wanzailiao Barrier Land, offering a chance to explore this uninhabited island and admire panoramic views of the magnificent Taiwan Strait.
The lagoon tour usually takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to observe numerous oyster sheds, fixed fishing nets, and the diverse ecology of the lagoon. Notably, visitors may spot cormorants (鸕鶿) perching on poles and oyster sheds in the lagoon, drying their feathers. These birds have no waterproof plumage and must sun-dry themselves after fishing in the water. This natural spectacle adds to the charm of exploring Qigu Lagoon.
More interestingly, upon returning to the pier at Longshan Community, visitors can unwind in a spacious area and enjoy an all-you-can-eat oyster charcoal roasting experience with their companions.
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