The lake is named 'Carp Lake' (Liyu Lake) due to the mountain on its eastern bank resembling a leaping carp.
The lake is fed primarily by groundwater and mountain streams, maintaining a stable water level year-round.
It is a prominent habitat for Taiwan’s indigenous freshwater shrimp and various endemic fish species.
The surrounding landscape was significantly shaped by the tectonic movements of the Central Mountain Range.
The lakeside cycling path is built to accommodate both casual riders and those seeking a scenic endurance loop.
Liyu Lake is the largest inland freshwater lake in Hualien County, covering approximately 104 hectares. It is a tectonic lake formed by the damming of the Wenshan River by alluvial deposits. The area features a 5-kilometer bicycle path that encircles the entire perimeter of the lake. Visitors can rent pedal boats, electric boats, or swan boats to explore the water. The surrounding mountains, including Liyu Mountain, provide a backdrop for a trail network connecting to the lakefront. The site hosts an annual firefly observation event in spring, which is a major draw for local ecological tourism. The lake serves as a primary irrigation source for the Shoufeng Township agricultural region.
The wooden boardwalk pier on the north side, which provides an unobstructed view of the mountain silhouette reflecting in the water.
Rent an electric boat to cover the entire lake surface with minimal physical effort.
Visit during the early spring evening hours if you intend to participate in firefly spotting.
Stick to the marked cycling path to avoid pedestrian congestion on the narrow waterfront walkways.
Avoid relying solely on pedal boats if the weather is hot, as the lake's size makes it physically demanding to navigate entirely by foot-power.
Maintain noise levels to protect local wildlife; strictly observe catch-and-release protocols if fishing in permitted zones.
