Angel's Tears: A 3-Day, 2-Night Guide to Hiking Jiaming Lake

🏞 Introduction to Jiaming Lake
• Location: Situated in Haiduan Township, Taitung County, at an altitude of approximately 3,310 meters, it is Taiwan's second-highest alpine lake.
• Features: The lake is shaped like a teardrop, crystal clear and serene, earning it the nickname "Angel's Tears."
• Suitable for: Experienced hikers with good endurance (not a casual hiking route; requires physical strength and proper gear).

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🚶♀️ Main Hiking Routes

1. Xiangyang Trailhead Route (Most Common)
• Day 1: Xiangyang Trailhead → Xiangyang Cabin (or Jiaming Lake Emergency Shelter)
• Day 2: Cabin → Jiaming Lake → Return to Cabin
• Day 3: Descend back to Xiangyang Trailhead

2. Southern Cross-Island Highway Tianchi Trailhead Route (Longer)
• Higher difficulty, may require 3-4 days, more suitable for seasoned hikers.

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🏔 Key Scenic Spots Along the Way
• Xiangyang Mountain (Elevation: 3,602 meters): Can be included as one of Taiwan's "100 Peaks."
• Sancha Mountain (Elevation: 3,496 meters): Another of the "100 Peaks" and a must-pass point to Jiaming Lake.
• Jiaming Lake Emergency Shelter: One of the overnight options, requires prior application.
• Alpine Grassland Scenery: Expansive views of Yushan junipers and alpine bamboo grass.

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⏰ Suggested Itinerary

Standard 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary
• Day 1: Chishang, Taitung → Xiangyang Trailhead → Xiangyang Cabin (or Jiaming Lake Emergency Shelter for overnight stay)
• Day 2: Early morning hike to Jiaming Lake → Optional ascent of Sancha Mountain → Return to cabin for overnight stay
• Day 3: Descend back to trailhead → Chishang town (option to enjoy a Chishang bento 🍱)

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🧳 Essential Gear
• Trekking poles, warm clothing (large temperature differences in alpine areas, temperatures can approach 0°C even in summer).
• Headlamp, rain gear, sleeping bag.
• Sufficient water and high-calorie food (or bring a portable stove for cooking).
• Apply for mountain entry and park permits.

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🍴 Bonus Activities
• Chishang Bento: A must-try classic before or after the hike.
• Guanshan Rice Cuisine: Taste authentic Taitung rice dishes.
• Luye Highland: If time permits, consider hot air balloon rides or tea plantation views.

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⚠️ Notes
• Jiaming Lake is located in a high-altitude area with unpredictable weather; check the forecast before departure.
• The route is long and at high elevation, making altitude sickness a concern; training is recommended before the hike.
• Cabin spaces are limited and require online reservations in advance.