Jiaming Lake in Taitung is a rare alpine tarn on Earth. Existing since the Ice Age, it's the second-highest alpine lake in Taiwan. Its clear, azure waters never dry up, shimmering like angels' tears in the sun. To reach Jiaming Lake, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, one must be able to acclimate to altitude sickness, have the stamina to carry heavy gear, and be lucky enough to win a lottery for a spot in the Jiaming Lake Mountain Lodge!
-Jiaming Lake Hiking Route-
Starting from the trailhead at the Xiangyang Forest Recreation Area in Taitung, the Jiaming Lake Hiking Route is approximately 13 kilometers one way, passing two of Taiwan's 100 Peaks: Xiangyang Mountain and Sancha Mountain. While seemingly short, the elevation difference means some sections require carrying heavy gear while climbing steeply, requiring both time and stamina. Jiaming Lake hiking trips typically run for 3 days and 2 nights or 4 days and 3 nights, with overnight stays at Xiangyang Mountain Hut or Jiaming Lake Hut. Therefore, you must apply for a Jiaming Lake Hut reservation in advance and participate in a lottery 30 days prior to your arrival date.
★ Jiaming Lake operates a total capacity control system: 176 people per day, including 70 at Xiangyang Mountain Hut, 70 at Jiaming Lake Hut, and a 6-tent, 6-person campsite at Jiaming Lake.
- Jiaming Lake Hiking Difficulty -
Jiaming Lake is not suitable for inexperienced hikers. It is recommended to start with the entry-level 100 Peaks, such as Hehuan 100 Peaks, Xueshan East Peak, and Junda Mountain. First, familiarize your body with the low oxygen and low pressure environment of the mountains, as well as the uphill pace. Therefore, when planning a Jiaming Lake hike, it's recommended to consider your physical condition and prepare for it in advance:
If you don't usually exercise or hike, we recommend choosing a Jiaming Lake hike that lasts at least four days. How to prepare for Jiaming Lake: Start jogging and hike small hills carrying 8 kg on weekends.
If you usually exercise weekly but rarely hike, we recommend choosing a four-day hike to minimize altitude sickness. A three-day hike is also recommended for those who are looking for a challenge. Preparation for the Gia Minh Lake climb: Maintain regular exercise and start hiking in the countryside on weekends to build thigh muscle endurance.
If you have a regular hiking habit but no high mountain/peak experience, a 3-day or 4-day hike is recommended. A 4-day hike is recommended for those who want to relax and take photos! Preparation for the Gia Minh Lake climb: Maintain regular exercise and get enough rest before departure to stay in top condition!
★ Special Recommendation: Jiaming Lake Hiking Package Tour. Don't worry about matching the pace of strangers; realize your dream with familiar friends and take photos at Angel's Tears.
- Jiaming Lake Hiking Tour Recommendation -
Joining the right professional Jiaming Lake hiking team is crucial. Jiaming Lake hiking tour services typically include: application processing for the Jiaming Lake Mountain Lodge lottery, eliminating administrative hassles. Arrangement of mountaineering assistance allows you to avoid carrying any equipment or supplies, reducing both preparation and personal burden. For added peace of mind, consult your guides for any questions regarding physical training or equipment preparation. Let a professional Jiaming Lake hiking guide lead your group at a comfortable pace for an unforgettable Jiaming Lake hike!
The Jiaming Lake hiking itinerary passes through Xiangyang Mountain and Sancha Mountain, each with its own unique ecological landscape. Xiangyang Mountain marks the southernmost boundary of the Central Mountain Range's alpine cold-weather ecosystem, while Sancha Mountain is renowned for its vast alpine grasslands and the sapphire-like Jiaming Lake, a hidden gem in Taitung. The vibrant flowers of these two mountains in spring and summer, and the snowy landscapes of winter, are unmissable sights on any Jiaming Lake hike.
Walking along the ridgeline, on the way to Jiaming Lake, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, we endured constant wind and rain, breathing the damp, cold air, and carrying heavy gear for three days. Along the way, I kept talking to myself: walking fast or slow isn't the key, but persevering, never giving up, because in the end, you will succeed! Witnessing the beauty of Taitung's "Angel's Tears - Jiaming Lake" with my own eyes, this mysterious and remote Taiwanese landscape teaches us awe and humility. The more beautiful the scenery, the more we must observe it. Keep it mysterious, and it will always be in our hearts.
▲ Angel's Tears - Jiaming Lake
Taitung's Jiaming Lake is Taiwan's second-highest alpine lake, second only to the Snow Mountain Cuichi. This angel's tears is a pearl in the southern second section of the Central Mountain Range. The shores of Jiaming Lake are littered with glassy rocks left over from a high-temperature explosion. After ruling out recent volcanic activity in the area, it was confirmed that Jiaming Lake is a rare young meteorite lake on Earth. The water is remarkably clear, devoid of fish or other large organisms.
▲ Sancha Mountain
At 3,496 meters, it is the second highest peak in the southern second section of the Central Mountain Range and ranks 28th among the 100 Great Mountains. Its majestic height and broad summit, while characterized by gentle slopes, earn it the third spot among the Ten Great Mountains. Its most distinctive feature is the vast, verdant grasslands that stretch across its expansive slopes.
▲ Xiangyang Mountain
At 3,602 meters, it lies at the border of Taoyuan Township, Kaohsiung County, and Haiduan Township, Taitung County. It is a high mountain in the "South Second Section" of the Central Mountain Range and one of Taiwan's "Eight Great Mountains." On clear days, the morning sun shines on the Xiangyang Great Wall, resembling a crimson maple leaf, hence its nickname, "Red Leaf Mountain." Xiangyang Mountain boasts a third-class triangulation point, No. 7529, ranking 17th among Taiwan's 100 Peaks, making it a truly remarkable peak.
