Sankui Water Play Introduction
"Three Turtles Playing in the Water" is one of the most representative scenic spots in the Balung area. The Dahan River is the main river in Taoyuan City, originating from the deep mountains of Yufeng Creek and Sangguang Creek, winding through the mountains, and converging into the Dahan River before reaching Lower Balung. The three streams meet here, and due to the meandering path of the Dahan River, it twists multiple times, creating a landscape where rivers and mountains intersect due to long-term erosion and scouring. From the mountain road, the valley appears like the heads of three turtles, with the extended mountain ridges resembling turtle shells, forming the unique scene of "Three Turtles Playing in the Water." This is a must-visit sight when traveling to the Balung area and one of the most representative beautiful scenes of Lala Mountain. The beautiful name "Three Turtles Playing in the Water" originally comes from indigenous mythological legends, and due to the landform shaped by river erosion and weathering, a crisscross valley landscape and towering cliffs have formed, adding a touch of mystery to Balung. To promote this natural beauty, the Taoyuan City Government specially established a viewing platform. If you head along Lala Mountain and reach 5.2 km on Road 116, you will find this wooden viewing platform located at the cliff edge, approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. This is an emerging attraction, positioned on the main artery of the Lala Mountain Scenic Area—Road 116, which was completed and opened in 2014, enabling visitors to follow the mountain road while enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery. The viewing platform is the perfect place to stop and appreciate this amazing landscape, serving as both a resting point on the journey and the best location to observe the natural wonder of "Three Turtles Playing in the Water." The design of the viewing platform is divided into upper and lower levels, allowing for an extended viewing experience. The upper level is a pebble-washing platform for visitors to park and rest; the lower level features a wooden platform with a spacious design that allows people to enjoy the fresh mountain air. From the viewing platform, the most beautiful sight is the unique valley and meandering landscape of the "Three Turtles Playing in the Water" in Lala Mountain. On clear days, one can even appreciate the beautiful view of distant mountain peaks enveloped in a light mist. Standing at this elevated spot, visitors can not only overlook the breathtaking mountainous scenery but also gaze far at the old and new Balung Bridges, with scattered cottages blending harmoniously in the mountains. Relaxing the body and mind also brings awareness of one's smallness against the vastness of nature. Additionally, visitors can explore the "Lala Mountain Balung Ancient Road," where different aspects of the natural beauty of "Three Turtles Playing in the Water" can be appreciated. Entering from the Lala Mountain Ecological Park, one can follow the Butterfly House and Beetle House along the Yuhung Trail to reach the destination, where stunning painterly natural vistas of mountains and waters can be admired, showcasing the wonders of nature.
