Nestled in the Yuanshan Township of Taiwan’s Yilan County, Wanglongpi (望龍埤), also known as Ruanpi (軟埤), is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature in a tranquil and scenic environment. The Wanglongpi (Wanglong Lake) was formed hundreds of years ago due to flash floods and landslides, resulting in a long, narrow body of water spanning about 5 hectares (12 acres).
Watch the following video of the Wanglongpi for more images.
The lake’s clear and pure water consists of underground springs, mountain springs, and rainwater. In the early years, it was the source of irrigation and drinking water for the Zhentou Mountain area. Surrounded by green forests on three sides, the lake’s unique formation and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.
The origin of the Wanglongpi’s name
Nestled in the mountains, the lake’s water volume fluctuates with the seasons, as its levels depend entirely on rainfall. According to Chinese legends, “clouds come with the dragon, wind with the tiger” (風從虎, 雲從龍). Inspired by this, local elders named the lake “Wanglong” (望龍), meaning “Dragon Watching,” in hopes of abundant rainfall sustaining the area.
The history of the Wanglongpi
Despite its serene beauty, the Wanglongpi faced a period of decline in the 1970s. Insufficient rainfall caused the lake to dry up, and overgrowth took over much of its surface. However, in the 1980s, a large-scale restoration effort spearheaded by the Water and Soil Conservation Bureau and contributions from various local organizations brought the Wanglongpi back to life.
In 2000, the lake was dredged. New facilities such as the Jiuqu Bridge, the Red-Arched Bridge, a traditional pavilion, lookouts, and the well-paved Lakeshore trail were added to make the site more accessible and attractive. Introducing native fish species and a sustainable water source from the Dajiaoxi River helped ensure that the Wanglongpi would continue to thrive for years.
The Jiuqu Bridge
The Jiuqu Bridge is a zigzag bridge that is also known as the Nine-Turn Bridge. It connects one side of the Lakeshore trail to an artificial island in the lake’s center. It offers a perfect spot to enjoy the picturesque scenery while enjoying a refreshing breeze.
Despite its name, the bridge has only seven turns, each set at an angle and alternating between right and left turns. This allows visitors to experience the lake from different perspectives. With its red-painted sides and pillars, the Jiuqu Bridge’s reflection in the calm lake water creates a particularly stunning view.
The island
In the middle of the lake’s serene green waters lies a small artificial island, home to a charming garden and the traditional Wanglong pavilion (望龍亭), with its striking red structure. The front pillars of the pavilion display a poetic Chinese couplet: “The breeze and the moon are priceless, while the deep water and the high mountains are unforgettable (清風明月本無價, 水遠山長別有情).” Sitting in the pavilion and enjoying the cool breeze during the heat of summer is a delightful experience, evoking a sense of poetry and tranquility.
The Red-Arched Bridge
The Red-Arched Bridge links the artificial island to the other side of the Lakeshore trail, creating a picturesque scene. The reflection of this rainbow-shaped bridge on the lake’s green waters forms a stunning illusion, as if two red rainbows are perfectly mirrored, one above and one below the surface.
The Lakeshore trail
The Lakeshore trail around the Wanglongpi stretches for 2,600 meters (1.6 miles), offering visitors a peaceful and scenic walk. Thoughtfully designed, the trail is paved with wooden planks that gracefully follow the natural curves of the shoreline, harmoniously blending with the environment.
One of the most striking features along the trail is the presence of Bald cypress trees (落羽松), also known as Deciduous cypress, standing tall beside the lake. The trail provides visitors with a relaxing walk through lush greenery while offering picturesque views of the calm waters, reflecting the surrounding mountains and the graceful Bald cypress trees.
The plaza of the Wanglongpi
At the innermost part of the Wanglongpi sits a cozy plaza with souvenir shops and restaurants. One standout is Huatian Village (花田村), a quaint restaurant featuring an outdoor lakeside café. This spot gained popularity after being featured in the popular Taiwanese idol drama Autumn’s Concerto (下一站，幸福), which was filmed there in 2009.
Undoubtedly, the Wanglongpi is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. The lake’s peaceful ambiance and stunning natural surroundings make it ideal for hiking, photography, and quiet contemplation.
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