No need to fly abroad—there are 5 dreamy "lakes" right in the Greater Taipei area!

▲ The Greater Taipei area also boasts such healing scenery. This photo shows the tranquil and picturesque Qian Dao Lake, which can make you forget all your worries. (Photo/IG@ding05_26Provided. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

By Reporter Lee Tzu-yi / Comprehensive Report

It’s not easy to see the sea in the city. How can you find nearby spots to relax and heal yourself on holidays? Why not head to a lake? ETtoday EBC has specially selected 5 beautiful lakes in the Greater Taipei area that make you feel like you’ve traveled abroad. The serene atmosphere of the lakes, paired with the sounds of insects and birds, is incredibly soothing to both the eyes and ears!

▲ The visual effect of Qian Dao Lake being divided by surrounding mountains makes it look like many small lakes, which is quite unique. (Photo/IG@purplecha35Provided. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Qian Dao Lake

Located in Shiding District, New Taipei City, Qian Dao Lake has been hailed by travel-loving netizens as one of Taiwan’s “must-visit hidden gems.” When viewed from afar, especially when mountain mist shrouds the area, the winding waterways surrounded by lush green mountains create a majestic beauty, while the blue-green lake water adds an air of mystery. Particularly when viewed from Yong’an Community in Shiding District, Feitsui Reservoir is divided by mountains into multiple small lakes, resembling China’s famous Qian Dao Lake.

Address: Yong’an Li, Shiding District, New Taipei City (Approximately 27 km along the Beiyi Highway; turn right at the large stone sign for “Yong’an Community” to reach the location)

▲ Standing on the wooden boardwalk allows you to capture the mountain and lake views of Meng Lake in one shot—the view is stunningly beautiful. (Photo/IG@z898720000Provided)

▲ The waters of Meng Lake are clear and emerald green, making you feel like you've entered another world. (Photo/IG@jia_yi_1022Provided)

Meng Lake

Located in Xizhi District, New Taipei City, Xinshan Meng Lake actually consists of two attractions: the Xinshan Trail and Meng Lake. Among them, Meng Lake, situated at an altitude of 325 meters, is also known as the “Angel’s Hidden Realm,” and can be reached in just a 5-minute walk along the trail.

It is named “Meng Lake” because during winter afternoons, mountain mist often rises over the lake, creating a dreamy, fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Originally private land, the owner generously shares this beautiful spot with the public, charges no admission fee, and even operates a “Meng Lake Café” by the lakeside, allowing visitors to enjoy both the scenic views and a cup of coffee—a truly delightful experience.

Address: Xinshan Meng Lake Road, Xizhi, New Taipei City (Take Shihwan Road uphill, then turn right onto Meng Lake Road and drive 3.5 km to reach the trail entrance)

▲ Located on Yangmingshan, Dream Lake gives off the illusion of being abroad—it’s hard to believe such a beautiful lake exists in Taipei. (Photo/IG@jasluansonProvided)

Dream Lake

A scenery that seems like it only exists in fairy tales actually exists in real life—and if you’ve been to Dream Lake on Yangmingshan, you probably feel the same. After trekking through various trails and being surrounded by flowers and trees, you’ll be greeted by Dream Lake, which sits at an elevation of 880 meters. The surrounding mountain hues reflect off the lake surface, and the gradient greens gently cleanse the minds of visitors. Aside from its breathtaking scenery, Dream Lake also boasts rich natural ecology, including rare Taiwanese water celery, which is mostly found here. Next time you visit Dream Lake, try spotting its adorable presence.

Address: Yangmingshan, Beitou District, Taipei City (Drivers can park at the Dream Lake parking lot and walk to the site)

▲ Apart from its large lake, Dahu Park’s Jindai Bridge has become so iconic that it’s gained international attention. (Photo/Screenshot from Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau official website)

Dahu Lake

No need to hike—take the MRT to enjoy lakeside views. The next two lake attractions fall into this category. Known as “Taipei’s most beautiful park,” Dahu Park features the famously beautiful “Jindai Bridge,” which gained international fame thanks to a stunning photo taken by a foreign photographer. It’s definitely a must-visit when in Taipei. The park is very accessible, located right at Dahu Park Station on the Wenhu Line. You can see the incredibly soothing lake and mountain views even before exiting the station, instantly relieving your stress.

Besides the beautiful lake and mountain scenery, the park also has a large grassy area, perfect for picnics or playing. When trees like bald cypress, golden rain trees, azaleas, and hibiscus are in bloom, the poetic atmosphere is simply overwhelming.

Address: Section 5, Chenggong Road, Neihu District, Taipei City (Dahu Park MRT Station)

▲ The sunset scenery at Bi Hu Park, with shimmering lake ripples complemented by a classic Chinese-style bridge, creates a uniquely traditional ambiance. (Photo/Courtesy of Reporter Lee Tzu-yi)

Bi Lake (Neihu Dapi)

Also located in the Neihu area, Bi Lake Park features a 7-hectare clear lake called “Dapi Lake,” which complements the surrounding mountain scenery for a stunning view. The park also includes facilities such as a zigzag bridge, pavilions, and a lakeside walking trail. Thanks to its convenient location—just a 10-minute walk from WenDe Metro Station—and the rarity of a picturesque lake in the city, Bi Lake has become a favorite spot for nearby residents to relax and have picnics.

When flowers in the park bloom in spring and summer, the scenery becomes even more beautiful, with trees like silk cotton, golden shower, flame tree, and bald cypress flowering in seasonal succession, creating a breathtaking sight. The park also has six hiking trails with pavilions along the way for resting, catering to visitors who want to stretch their legs and go hiking.

Address: No. 175, Section 2, Neihu Road, Neihu District, Taipei City (near WenDe Metro Station)