Lantian Lake Introduction
Chiayi City's Most Thrilling Night – "Lantan Moonlight" Lantan's moonlit nights are enchanting, known as "Lantan Moonlight," and are considered one of the Eight Scenic spots of Chiayi. At Sanxin Pavilion, a gentle breeze accompanies the elegant moonlight, where visitors can stroll, talk with loved ones, gather with family, or enjoy tea and casual conversations, enhancing the warm beauty of Lantan. The waters of Lantan are crystal clear, surrounded by undulating hills. When the moonlight shrouds the pond, it becomes poetic and picturesque. Therefore, "Lantan Moonlight" is celebrated as one of the Eight Scenes of Chiayi. Along the lakeside road, scenic pavilions can be seen, and the view from the top allows for a complete overview of Lantan. There are several hiking trails leading to the mountains behind Lantan. The tall trees lining the paths continuously release phytoncides, while flatter areas naturally form spaces for badminton or folk dance. Some trails have steep inclines, challenging sports enthusiasts and making it a popular spot for exercise, relaxation, and recreation. Its natural resources are abundant. The Chiayi Wilderness Conservation Association has established observation teams in the mountainous region behind Lantan, the Arboretum, Tao Hua Yuan, and the Yuan Lan Zi Cold Spring area. Over the years, they have guided many nature enthusiasts to explore the beautiful and diverse nature, hoping that through deep observation and experiences, connecting with nature becomes a lifestyle rather than just a concept. We hope everyone can befriend numerous birds, insects, plants, and large trees, appreciating the beauty of ecology and understanding the essence of biodiversity through the learning process. Historical Trivia Lantan is located near Shanziding in eastern Chiayi City, about three kilometers from the urban area, formerly known as "Hongmao Pond." It is said that it was excavated by the Dutch 300 years ago, hence the name "Lantan." During the Dutch period, water from the Bajhang River was diverted here to build a dam for irrigation in Wangtian. The Dutch East India Company directly managed Wangtian, and it still existed during the Zheng period but gradually declined after the Qing Dynasty, though the name remains. During the Japanese colonial period, the planning engineer for the Chiao-Nan Canal, Tadao Ohta, built Lantan's dam to serve as a reservoir for a water supply station, which remains a primary water supply source for the Chiayi area today.
