Pearls Scattered by a Fairy in a Forest of Mystery Lakes

Text by MOOK Travel’s Christopher, compiled and reported

Legend has it that a fairy accidentally dropped her mirror while grooming, and the shards fell like pearls across the mountainous region of Yilan, forming beautiful alpine lakes – the Kaluo Lakes, also known as the “scattered pearls.” Located near the Siji Tribe in Datong Township, Yilan, along the Central Mountain Range between Nanhu Mountain and Taipingshan, the Kaluo Lakes are accessible via the Siji Forest Road. The journey takes you through a misty forest of dense shade, and as you approach the lakes, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views of alpine meadows dotted with bamboo, cypress, and hemlock—an absolutely breathtaking scene.

Within this collection of over 20 lakes—including Kaluo Lake, Weidan Pool, Haomai Pool, and Retreat Pool—the reflections of the sky, trees, and lakes create a surreal and indescribably beautiful sight. Surrounded by deadwood, the area becomes a fantastical scene reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings when shrouded in mist and forest, making it a perfect destination for adventurous explorers.