The pool is a rare geological formation known as a crater lake or caldera, created by volcanic activity in the Datun Volcano Group.
It is the only known habitat in Taiwan for the Branchinella kugenumaensis, a species of fairy shrimp that remains dormant as cysts in dry soil until heavy rains trigger hatching.
The water depth and surface area fluctuate dramatically, sometimes disappearing entirely for weeks or months.
The name 'Xiangtian' is derived from the local belief that the crater looks like it is facing the sky.
The surrounding landscape contains significant evidence of historical human activity, including remnants of early agricultural stone walls.
Xiangtian Pool is a natural ephemeral pond located within the Yangmingshan National Park volcanic group in Northern Taiwan. It occupies a circular basin formed by the crater of the dormant Xiangtian Mountain volcano. The pool is technically a temporary wetland that fills with rainwater, meaning it is often dry during periods of low precipitation. It serves as a critical habitat for the Formosan microhyla and the rare fairy shrimp. The site is surrounded by dense forest cover and connected to a network of hiking trails in the Datun mountain range. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 800 meters above sea level. The basin floor is covered in tall grass when the water evaporates completely.
The elevated grassy rim of the crater provides the best vantage point to capture the circular shape of the pool.
Check recent weather reports, as the pool is usually empty unless there has been heavy, sustained rainfall.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trail to the pool involves uneven volcanic rock terrain and can be muddy.
Bring sun protection and adequate water, as there are no facilities or shade once you reach the open crater basin.
Do not attempt to hike the trails during or immediately after a typhoon, as volcanic paths become extremely slippery and hazardous.
Open year-round, but the pool itself is ephemeral and typically dries up during winter or drought.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; do not disturb the water or the fragile crustacean ecosystem within the pool.
