Take a boat ride and explore the lake while spotting wild boars!

Zengwen Reservoir is actually Tainan's most untamed hidden gem. How long has it been since you ventured into the mountains, letting your eyes rest amidst greenery and your ears soak in the sounds of water and birdsong? This time, I visited the Zengwen Reservoir in Nansi, Tainan. It is the largest reservoir in Taiwan, with a water storage capacity of up to 700 million cubic meters. Not only does it supply water to vast areas of Tainan and Kaohsiung, but it is also a tranquil paradise nestled in a mountain valley. If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, this is definitely a place worth visiting to "unwind." 🏞️ More than just a reservoir, it's a comprehensive natural attraction Zengwen Reservoir spans a vast area, with well-planned tourist facilities and nature trails surrounding it. These include observation decks, water-friendly platforms, picnic lawns, native plant zones, and forest bathing paths. The intertwining greens and blues of the landscape are truly refreshing to behold. Standing on the observation deck overlooking the dam, I felt a profound sense of "human insignificance and nature's grandeur." The shimmering lake in the distance was so captivating that I couldn't resist taking a few extra photos. 🚣 Take a boat ride to explore hidden gems and Wild Boar Island The highlight of my visit was the lake tour! Boarding a sightseeing boat at the pier, I enjoyed views of lakeside forests, dam structures, and artificial floating islands along the way. The boat also stopped at a special "Wild Boar Island," where you can get up close to free-roaming wild boars and sika deer. They are accustomed to human presence, leisurely strolling on the grass or playfully rolling around nearby—absolutely adorable. The entire boat trip lasts about an hour, offering both scenic mountain views and ecological highlights, making it a perfect activity for families and couples alike. 🌳 Rich biodiversity, a haven for small animals and migratory birds In addition to large mammals, you can spot: - Taiwanese macaques leisurely jumping among the trees - Egrets and kingfishers gliding over the water - If you're lucky, pangolins or Taiwan blue magpies The park also features simple ecological guided trails, making it easy to learn about the local flora and fauna. If you love photographing wildlife or documenting nature, this place is a treasure trove. 🥾 A therapeutic trail for a relaxing walk Personally, I highly recommend the "Forest Bathing Trail," which takes about 30–40 minutes to complete from the entrance. Along the way, you'll encounter abundant native tree species, dense greenery, and the soothing sounds of insects. At the platform, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the reservoir, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and clearing your mind. The trail is gently sloped, suitable for all ages, and perfect for bringing your parents along. 📍【Zengwen Reservoir Info Notes】 Location: No. 70, Mizhi Village, Nansi District, Tainan City Admission: Full ticket $100, Half ticket $50 (lake tour tickets sold separately) Parking: Large parking spaces available (for cars and motorcycles) Recommended duration: About 2–4 hours Ideal for: Family outings, romantic dates, nature enthusiasts, road trippers Nearby attractions: Meiling Scenic Area, Guidan Hot Springs, Xuankong Temple, Yujing Mango Ice 💭 Visiting Zengwen Reservoir feels like stepping into Taiwan's backyard garden. It lacks excessive commercial vibes and isn't a fast-paced attraction, but it is a place where you can temporarily disconnect from your phone and embrace the mountains and lake for a truly therapeutic experience.