Natural attractions #3 in Niaosong Village

Chengcing Lake

4.4 · 1,465 reviews
A serene and expansive reservoir park
Chengcing Lake, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 833
Interesting facts
1

The Nine-Turn Bridge is intentionally built with zigzags based on the Chinese belief that evil spirits can only travel in straight lines.

2

The lake was known as 'Ta-Pei Lake' and originally served as a significant source of irrigation water for local farmers before being developed into a reservoir.

3

The site includes a Youth Activity Center that offers multi-purpose recreational facilities and group accommodation.

4

The park contains an indoor aquarium, currently one of the oldest public aquariums in Taiwan.

5

A commemorative pavilion named the 'Chung-Hsing Pagoda' stands seven stories tall, offering panoramic views of the lake basin.

6

The water quality is strictly protected, making the lake a protected area where fishing and swimming are prohibited.

Overview

Chengcing Lake is the largest lake in Kaohsiung, covering approximately 103 hectares. It serves as a vital reservoir for the region and functions as a managed scenic area. The site is famous for the Nine-Turn Bridge, a zigzagging walkway designed to deflect evil spirits according to traditional folklore. It features a sprawling park complex with walking paths, bird-watching zones, and manicured gardens. The area is surrounded by low-lying hills and serves as a major recreational lung for the Niaosong District. The lake area is enclosed, requiring an entry ticket for access to the internal park facilities. It is a managed space under the Taiwan Water Corporation, balancing water storage with public tourism.

Photo spot

The mid-point of the Nine-Turn Bridge provides a clear view of the water with the zigzag architecture in the foreground.

Insider tips

Bring sunscreen and a hat, as much of the park area around the lake is exposed to direct sunlight with limited shade.

Rent a bicycle if available to cover the perimeter loop, as the park grounds are expansive and tiring to traverse solely on foot.

Carry mosquito repellent, especially during humid or rainy weather, as the wetland environment attracts insects.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk the entire perimeter if you are on a tight schedule, as the loop is quite long; focus on the bridge and pagoda areas.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays for weekly maintenance.

Etiquette

No swimming or fishing allowed; remain on designated pedestrian paths to protect local flora and water conservation zones.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense tropical midday heat and to capture the best light for photography.
Address
Chengcing Lake, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 833
22.660, 120.354
Get directions
Details
Park FeaturesNine-Turn Bridge, Chung-Hsing Pagoda, aquarium, and expansive reservoir trails

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense tropical midday heat and to capture the best light for photography..

The mid-point of the Nine-Turn Bridge provides a clear view of the water with the zigzag architecture in the foreground.

Close by you'll find Ocean Fantasy Museum, Chengcing Lake, Niaosong Wetland Park.

About Niaosong Village