Waisanding Sandbar Introduction
Waisanding Island, located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Yunlin and Chiayi, covers an area of over 1,000 hectares. Named for its umbrella-like shape, it is the largest sandbar in Taiwan. Influenced by waves, coastal currents, and the northeast monsoon, Waisanding Island drifts southwestward by an average of 60 to 70 meters annually, earning it the nickname "moving territory." It is primarily formed by the large amounts of sediment carried by the Zhuoshui River as it flows into the sea. The presence of Waisanding Island acts as a barrier, creating a tranquil expansive sea area in the Dongshi Lagoon between Waisanding Island and Chiayi County, which has facilitated the thriving of oyster farming. In recent years, due to a decrease in sand supply, its area has gradually shrunk, and relevant authorities are working hard to rescue the gradually disappearing Waisanding Island, attracting many visitors to witness its beauty. The Wengang Lighthouse is currently the only lighthouse on Waisanding Island, constructed as a steel framework tower. The lighthouse was built because the floating sand dunes where it is located, measuring about 5 kilometers long and 1.2 kilometers wide, frequently appear and disappear with the tides, affecting the navigation of nearby waterway vessels. To ensure safety, the lighthouse was erected. However, since the Wengang Lighthouse is built on the sandbar, it continuously drifts and faces the danger of its foundation being washed away. The Wengang Lighthouse has been rebuilt seven times, setting a record in the history of lighthouses in Taiwan and worldwide for the highest number of reconstructions.
