Nantou boasts not only Sun Moon Lake but also five stunning natural attractions that are too beautiful to leave

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Although Nantou isn’t coastal, it still features abundant natural landscapes, the most famous of which is the Sun Moon Lake scenic area. With its vast lake surface surrounded by green mountains, it resembles a traditional Chinese ink painting and is beloved by both domestic and international tourists. However, besides Sun Moon Lake, Nantou has many magnificent hidden gems perfect for exploration and enjoyment.

1. Shimen Mountain
As one of Taiwan’s Hundred Peaks, Shimen Mountain stands over 3,000 meters tall with gentle slopes and a flat, open summit. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top, making it one of the easier peaks to conquer. From here, you can enjoy expansive views of the grasslands. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for sunrise viewing, while the night sky offers breathtaking views of the Milky Way.

2. Wandou Power Plant
Located on the Wushe River in the upper reaches of the Zhuoshui River, Wandou Power Plant boasts valley scenery and is especially stunning during cherry blossom season, making it one of Nantou’s popular cherry blossom viewing spots.

3. Qilin Pond
Nestled at the eastern foot of Dongding Mountain in Lugu, Qilin Pond is a poetic spot recognized as one of Nantou’s Eight Scenic Views. Surrounded by rolling hills, though only about 13 hectares in size, its scenery rivals that of Sun Moon Lake. The pond is enveloped in mist during dawn and dusk, creating an enchanting, almost otherworldly atmosphere.