Lantan Lake

Chiayi · Taiwan · Natural site

From Lantan's depths a carp spirit is said to claim a human life for every great fish landed – and from the dark shore a voice asked: 'Is the fish tasty?'

The Lantan reservoir outside Chiayi is beautiful by day but harbours one of Taiwan's best-known water spirits. An ancient carp spirit is said to rule its depths; whenever a great fish is pulled from the lake, the spirit claims a human life in exchange, and the many drownings over the years – more than eighty since the 1980s – are popularly counted as the creature's "replacements". This is also the birthplace of the country's famous human-faced fish legend: night anglers grilling their catch on the shore are said to have heard an old woman's voice ask whether the fish tasted good, whereupon a human face emerged on its side. Today motion-sensing loudspeakers keep watch at the water's edge, warning anyone who strays too close at night.

FAQ

Where is Lantan Lake located?

Lantan Lake is in Chiayi, Taiwan.