Pingtung Hengchun Mudan Reservoir Loop: A Hidden Climbing Route in Southern Taiwan

Mudan Reservoir: A Hidden Climbing Gem on the Hengchun Peninsula

Mudan Township in Pingtung County boasts the southernmost mountain scenery in Taiwan, and the Mudan Reservoir sits nestled within this tropical forest. This cycling route around the reservoir combines the tropical vegetation unique to southern Taiwan, the indigenous culture of the Paiwan people, and challenging mountain climbs, making it one of the most worthwhile hidden routes to explore on the Hengchun Peninsula.

Route Basic Information

Route Overview

Section 1: Checheng to Sichongxi

Starting from Checheng, head east along the provincial highway and enter the Sichongxi Hot Spring area. This section is flat and ideal for warming up. Sichongxi Hot Spring is one of Taiwan’s four major hot springs, with clear, odorless, and colorless water. If time permits, consider soaking in the hot springs after your ride to relax.

Section 2: Sichongxi to Mudan Reservoir

From Sichongxi, the climbing section begins, with the road winding up along the river valley, flanked by dense tropical secondary forest. This approximately 15 km climb, with gradients between 5–8%, is the toughest challenge of the entire route. As elevation increases, the views gradually open up, offering panoramic vistas of the Hengchun Peninsula.

Mudan Reservoir

Completed in 1995, the Mudan Reservoir is a vital water resource facility in Pingtung County. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the reservoir’s waters are a deep emerald green, creating a serene and tranquil scene. The observation deck near the reservoir offers a full view of the entire reservoir, a rare mountain lake vista in southern Taiwan.

Section 3: Mudan Reservoir to Shimen

After circling the reservoir, the route turns eastward, passing through Paiwan tribal villages. This section features rolling terrain, with traditional Paiwan slate houses and modern tribal settlements visible on both sides. Shimen is the site of the 1874 “Mudan Incident,” and a historical monument stands there, making it an important location for understanding the history of Taiwan’s indigenous resistance against Japanese forces.

Paiwan Cultural Experience

Mudan Township is a major settlement area for the Paiwan people, and the route offers abundant opportunities to observe rich Paiwan cultural elements:

• Slate House Architecture: The traditional Paiwan craft of slate house construction has been designated as cultural heritage
• Lily Motifs: Roadside art installations and buildings frequently feature the Paiwan people’s distinctive lily motifs
• Handicrafts: Tribal shops sell traditional Paiwan handicrafts, including glass beads and embroidery

Kenting National Park Extension

After completing the Mudan Reservoir loop, you can continue riding to Hengchun Township and then along Kenting Main Street to Kenting National Park. The coastline riding on the Hengchun Peninsula is equally spectacular, especially the fall wind (luòshānfēng) on the west coast. While it adds difficulty to the ride, it is also a unique natural experience of the Hengchun Peninsula.

Best Riding Seasons

• Autumn/Winter (Oct–Mar): Cool weather makes this the peak season for riding on the Hengchun Peninsula, but be mindful of the fall wind
• Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers bloom, the mountains are lush green, and the climate is most comfortable
• Avoid Summer: July–September brings intense heat and frequent typhoons; mountain riding is not recommended

Fall Wind Riding Tips

The fall wind (strong northeasterly winds) on the Hengchun Peninsula in winter is a major challenge for cyclists:

1. Riding from Hengchun to Checheng is downwind and relatively easy
2. When riding into a headwind, lower your cadence and maintain a steady power output
3. Avoid riding during the midday hours when the fall wind is strongest
4. Wear form-fitting cycling clothing to reduce wind resistance

Related Reading

• Mudan Reservoir Route 199 Guide: A 13.2 km Family-Friendly Long Route with Gentle Grades
• Pingtung Hengchun Peninsula Loop: A Complete Guide to the Long-Distance Route Through Southern Mountain and Coastal Scenery
• Quiet Moments by Mudan Reservoir: A Cycling Journal of the Mudan Incident and the Power of Peace
• Kenting Peninsula Cycling Loop: A Guide to Riding the Sunshine Coast of Southern Taiwan