Taiwan's Major Lakes and Reservoirs: Sun Moon Lake and Beyond

Key Freshwater Bodies in Taiwan

Taiwan's mountainous terrain and subtropical climate create numerous lakes and reservoirs vital for water supply, irrigation, flood control, and recreation. Here are the five largest by capacity.

1. Sun Moon Lake (日月潭)

• Location: Yuchi Township, Nantou County
• Status: Largest natural lake in Taiwan
• Features: 20 km from Yuchi town; surrounded by mountains; major tourist destination with cycling paths, temples, and Thao indigenous culture

2. Zengwen Reservoir (曾文水庫)

• Location: Chiayi County
• Completed: 1973
• Purpose: Irrigation, domestic water, flood control
• Rank: Second largest reservoir

3. Wushe Dam / Reservoir (霧社水庫)

• Location: Wushe Village, Ren'ai Township, Nantou County
• Completed: 1960
• Purpose: Irrigation, domestic water, flood control
• Rank: Third largest reservoir

4. Shimen Dam / Reservoir (石門水庫)

• Location: Taoyuan County (now Taoyuan City)
• Completed: 1964
• Purpose: Irrigation, domestic water, flood control
• Rank: Fourth largest reservoir

5. Feitsui Dam / Reservoir (翡翠水庫)

• Location: Miaoli County
• Completed: 1973
• Purpose: Irrigation, domestic water, flood control
• Rank: Fifth largest reservoir

Beyond the Big Five

Taiwan operates over 100 reservoirs nationwide. These five anchor the water security of millions, support agriculture in the western plains, and mitigate typhoon-driven flood risks—while Sun Moon Lake doubles as a cultural and ecological treasure.