A Therapeutic Journey at Shimen Reservoir

The blue waters of the lake here are so soothing, making it perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. Visiting Shimen Reservoir in Taoyuan on a sunny day feels like embarking on a therapeutic journey through nature. This trip focuses on the Shimen Reservoir Scenic Area and Amuping Pier, offering a dreamy blend of lakes and mountains. It's ideal for family outings, whether it's a relaxing boat ride or a lakeside stroll, allowing you to experience the tranquility and vitality of Taiwan's natural beauty! The highlight of the trip is taking a boat from Amuping Pier to explore the vastness of the water, making it a perfect weekend getaway for deep relaxation.

Shimen Reservoir Scenic Area and Amuping Pier Recommendations
📍 Shimen Reservoir Scenic Area
Address: No. 68, Section 1, Huanhu Road, Daxi District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 335
Shimen Reservoir is not only Taoyuan's most famous natural attraction but also offers a variety of activities: cycling around the lake, leisurely lakeside walks, and enjoying the breeze by the shore. Here, you can admire the grandeur of the dam and the serene beauty of the lake, making it a great spot for photography and outdoor activities.

📍 Amuping Pier Boat Experience
For a deeper exploration of Shimen Reservoir, taking a boat from Amuping Pier is highly recommended! The pier is conveniently designed, with a simple ticketing process and staff on-site to guide you. The tickets are affordable, and most boat trips last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the route, offering different perspectives of the lake's scenic beauty. Once on the island, you can wander along the lakeside trails with clear signage. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. On a sunny day, the shimmering lake surface and swaying trees along the shore create a truly therapeutic experience.

🧑🦰 Tips from Visitors
1. Check schedules and ticket prices online in advance. On holidays, crowds can be significant, so booking boat tickets online can save you time waiting in line.
2. Before boarding, prepare sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. Exposure to the sun on the lake can be prolonged, so sun protection is essential.
3. The scenery from the boat is stunning, so consider bringing a handheld camera or a waterproof phone case for capturing the lake and island views.
4. In case of rainy weather (as seen in some photos), the pier has sheltered areas for more comfortable waiting, but the lake can be windy, so dress warmly.
5. Nearby restaurants mainly serve Taiwanese-style dishes. For local cuisine, try the farm-to-table restaurants near the Shimen Reservoir entrance or the lakeside restaurants along Huanhu Road, especially the fresh fish dishes from the reservoir!

Transportation & Food Guide
- From Taoyuan City, it takes about 30-40 minutes by bus or car to reach Shimen Reservoir. You can also visit Daxi Old Street along the way.
- Driving or hiring a car is the most convenient option. Parking lots can get crowded on holidays, so it's best to start early.
- Recommended dining options include "Shimen Reservoir Fresh Fish Restaurant" and "Reservoir Tea Restaurant," which feature lakeside views and fresh fish dishes at reasonable prices.

Practical Tips
- Remember to bring a power bank, lightweight rain gear (as mountain weather can change quickly), and spare masks.
- While boat tickets can be purchased on-site, peak seasons and holidays can be busy, so plan your schedule in advance.

The sunny lake surface and reflections of mountains and trees at Shimen Reservoir are absolutely worth spending an afternoon exploring! Whether it's a family outing, a romantic date, or a solo retreat, this water-centric journey starting from Amuping Pier offers a seamless blend of nature and culture.