Lan Lake
Image source: Taiwan_Opendata; license credits as shown.
Overview
Lan Lake is located on the right side of Xiaojing Village and is transformed from the second largest water conservancy project in Kinmen, the Lanlin Reservoir. Originally built to provide irrigation and drinking water for the Qionglin and Zhonglan areas, it was completed in 1968 and has a water extraction area of 125 hectares.
Highlights
Lan Lake is a reservoir-type lake and recreational spot transformed from the Lanlin Reservoir, situated among the hills on the right side of Xiaojing Village in Jinhu Township, Kinmen County. It features beautiful lake and mountain scenery along with a local water conservancy historical background. The lake was originally built for irrigation and domestic water use, with a water extraction area of 125 hectares. It has gradually been developed with walking paths, pavilions, and lakeside landscapes, making it a tranquil place suitable for walking, sightseeing, and fishing. The lakeside features stone paths, small islands, pavilions, and a winding bridge, creating an elegant view and a relatively serene atmosphere, often chosen by travelers as a relaxing spot for a stroll and photography in the Jinhu area.
What to See
1. Lake Surface and Reservoir Scenery: The core attraction of Lan Lake is the large lake surface transformed from the Lanlin Reservoir, surrounded by hills and greenery, showcasing a rare large water area landscape in Kinmen. Visitors can enjoy the reflections of the lake and surrounding mountains from the lakeside paths or the road around the lake, experiencing the tranquil atmosphere where the reservoir meets nature. 2. Lakeside Stone Path and Walking Trail: A stone path connects the small island in the lake and provides a walking space along the shore, allowing visitors to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. Walking along the stone path offers different angles to appreciate the lake surface and distant hills, making it suitable for a short and relaxed walking itinerary. 3. Central Island and Pavilion (Lanting/Lanlu Area): There is a small island in the lake connected by a stone path to the shore, featuring a classical-style pavilion. This area is partially known as "Lanting" or "Lanlu," with its green tiles and white columns, and its elegant design becoming a visual focal point. The pavilion provides a resting spot for visitors to cool off and gaze at the lake surface and the scenery on both shores, making it a popular location for photos and relaxation. 4. Winding Wooden Bridge Scenery: A winding wooden bridge extends from the central island to the shore, with its curving structure complemented by the reflections on the lake, creating a traditional garden-style landscape. Visitors can walk along the bridge while taking photos, experiencing the spatial changes brought by the winding bridge and the close-up view of the lake surface. 5. Fishing and Leisure Space by the Lake: Lan Lake is known as a "fishing recreation paradise," with spaces suitable for visitors to linger by the lakeside, where anglers can often be seen quietly waiting for fish. Even if not fishing, it is also a great place to bring simple snacks or drinks to relax by the lakeside pavilion or stone path, enjoying the quiet atmosphere away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Address
No. 35, Qiongjing Road, Qionglin Village, Jinhu Township, Kinmen County 891 Phone: (08)2318823
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Lan Lake is during stable weather and good visibility, allowing for enjoyment of the lake and mountain scenery and taking photos. The spring and autumn seasons have more comfortable weather, with gentle breezes by the lake, making it a great time for walking and sightseeing; summer has strong sunlight, so it is recommended to visit in the morning or evening for cooler temperatures. Traveling to Lan Lake is usually most convenient by car or scooter. Visitors can drive from Kinmen Airport or Jinhu City along the main roads to Qiongjing Road, then follow signs or navigation to reach the destination, often combining the trip with nearby attractions in Jinhu. As the surrounding area consists of hills and water environments, it is advisable to wear comfortable flat shoes for safe walking on stone paths, wooden bridges, and trails. The lake area is an open natural landscape, with limited shade in some areas, so visitors should prepare sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. In summer, it is also good to bring drinking water and simple snacks for a short stay at the lakeside pavilion. If planning to stay longer by the lake or engage in fishing activities, consider bringing mosquito repellent and lightweight rain gear for afternoon showers or wetland conditions. As Lan Lake is a transformed reservoir attraction, visitors should pay attention to safety notices, avoid entering restricted areas or getting too close to deep water, and refrain from littering or feeding fish to maintain the water quality and cleanliness of the environment. If visiting with elders or children, please be especially careful when walking on stone paths, wooden bridges, and near the water for safety.
FAQ
Q: Where is Lan Lake? How do I get there? A: Lan Lake is located among the hills on the right side of Xiaojing Village in Jinhu Township, Kinmen County, near the Qionglin area. It is usually accessible by driving or riding a scooter along Qiongjing Road. Common routes from Kinmen Airport or the outskirts involve first connecting to Zhongshan Road and Boyu Road, then turning onto Qiongjing Road to proceed directly to the entrance of Lan Lake. Q: Is there an entrance fee for Lan Lake? What are the opening hours? A: Lan Lake is currently an open lake area attraction, open all day and free of charge, allowing visitors to freely arrange their time for walking and sightseeing. Due to weaker lighting at night, it is safer for non-residents to visit during the day or dusk and to pay attention to their own lighting and walking safety. Q: What are the must-see sights and activities at Lan Lake? A: Key highlights of Lan Lake include the lakeside scenery, the stone path connecting the central island, the classical pavilion on the island, and the winding wooden bridge connecting to the shore, which are the main routes for photography and walking. Additionally, anglers can often be seen fishing by the lakeside, creating a serene atmosphere suitable for a short stay, strolling by the lake, resting in the pavilion, and enjoying the lake and mountain scenery. Q: How long should I stay at Lan Lake? Is it suitable for families with children or elders? A: Lan Lake is a relaxed attraction, with most visitors staying about half an hour to an hour for walking, taking photos, and resting by the lakeside. The lakeside paths and stone paths have gentle slopes, making them suitable for families with children and elders. However, due to the proximity to water and the presence of wooden bridges and stone paths, it is advised for companions to be mindful of their steps and safety, avoiding children getting too close to the water.