Seize the Shifting "Outer Umbrella Top Shoal" – Experience the Beauty of a Midsummer Sunset at Sea

▲ Outer Umbrella Top Shoal is the largest offshore sandbar along Taiwan’s coast. As it continuously drifts southward each year, it has long been known as the "moving country" and the "gradually disappearing country." (Photo / Courtesy of the Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan Coastal National Scenic Area Administration)）

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Outer Umbrella Top Shoal is the largest offshore sandbar along Taiwan’s coast. As it continuously drifts southward each year, it has long been known as the "moving country" and the "gradually disappearing country." To allow visitors to experience the beauty of a midsummer sunset over the sea, the Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan Coastal National Scenic Area Administration has specially organized the "Midsummer Sea Sunset Viewing Activity at Outer Umbrella Top Shoal" around the summer solstice (June 21) during holiday periods in the week before and after, with a participation fee of just NT$300 per person.

The perpetually southward-drifting Outer Umbrella Top Shoal currently spans an area of about 100 hectares. It earned its name due to its umbrella-like shape and is administratively part of Kouhu Township, Yunlin County. However, influenced by waves, coastal currents, and the northeast monsoon, it moves an average of 60 to 70 meters southwestward each year. Nowadays, the majority of the shoal lies offshore from Dongshi Township, Chiayi County, earning it the titles of the "moving country" and the "gradually disappearing country." It currently features an Xm Harbor pile lighthouse and a bamboo shack built by local fishermen, and provides habitat for wild birds and other wildlife, resembling an isolated "maritime island nation."

Currently, sightseeing fishing boats depart for Outer Umbrella Top Shoal from Dongshi Fishing Port, Wangliao Fishing Harbor, Baishuihu, and Budai Yacht Harbor. On a midsummer afternoon, ride the sea breeze on a sightseeing boat to the shoal, tread on the fine sands and feel the sea water, while also experiencing the vitality of small fish swimming around your feet. On the return trip in the evening, leisurely enjoy the beautiful sunset and savor a delicious seafood meal prepared by the boat operator. Director Zheng Rong of the Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan Management Office mentioned that the original round-trip journey takes about two hours, with adult boat tickets originally priced at around NT$650 each (including an on-board live-cooked seafood meal, guided commentary, and accident insurance).

However, for this "GO Seize the Moving Country – Outer Umbrella Top Shoal Midsummer Sea Sunset Viewing Activity" organized by the Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan Management Office, the fee is only NT$300 per person. Children under 3 years old are exempt from boat fare and meal costs, paying only NT$100 for insurance. There will be four sessions on June 15, 16, and June 22, 23, until all spots are filled. Online registration begins on June 1 at the following URL: http://www.swcoast-nsa.gov.tw/register.