Daxi Shihmen Reservoir Day Trip: A Classic Northern Reservoir Challenge

Introduction

Located at the junction of Daxi, Longtan, and Fuxing in Taoyuan, Shimen Reservoir is one of the most important reservoirs in northern Taiwan. The lakeside loop, the area around the afterbay, and the Amuping Ecological Park connect to offer route options ranging from 30 to 80 kilometers. It is the standard weekend route for cyclists in the Taoyuan–Hsinchu area.

Route Basic Information

Item	Data
Lakeside loop (one lap)	30 km
Including Amuping extension	50 km
Full version starting/ending in Daxi	80 km
Cumulative elevation gain (single loop)	480 m
Difficulty	★★★

Three Route Options

Short version: Lakeside loop (30 km)
Starting from the Shimen Reservoir Visitor Center, ride along Provincial Highway 7B and Provincial Highway 4 to circle the reservoir. Includes classic stops such as the “Spillway Observation Platform” and “Yishan Pavilion.”

Medium version: Lakeside loop + Amuping (50 km)
After completing the loop, extend from the dam toward Amuping. Amuping Ecological Park is a hidden gem at the upper reaches of the reservoir, offering wider views.

Long version: Daxi Old Street + Lakeside loop (80 km)
Starting from Daxi Old Street, pass through Yuemei, Cihu, and Shimen Reservoir, then return to Daxi after completing the loop. Includes attractions such as the Cihu Mausoleum and the Yuemei Leisure Agriculture Area.

Must-Visit Attractions

Attraction	Location	Highlights
Daxi Old Street	Daxi	Baroque architecture, dried tofu
Cihu	Daxi	Chiang Kai-shek and Chiang Ching-kuo Cultural Park
Shimen Reservoir Dam	Longtan	Spillway, observation deck
Yishan Pavilion	Lakeside loop	Classic reservoir viewpoint
Amuping	Fuxing	Ecological park, live fish cuisine

Food Recommendations

Highlights of the Shimen Reservoir route:

• Daxi Old Street: Huang Ri Xiang dried tofu, moonlight cake, peanut candy
• Shimen Reservoir: Shimen live fish (mainly grass carp)
• Amuping: Wild vegetable dishes, Fuxing mountain produce
• Sankeng Old Street: Hakka cuisine, vegetable buns

Shimen live fish is a signature of the route. There are over 20 live fish restaurants around the reservoir, offering grass carp dishes prepared in more than 13 different ways.

Training Value

Shimen Reservoir is the most popular training ground for Taoyuan–Hsinchu cyclists:

• Even climbing: Lakeside gradients mostly range from 3–6%, suitable for SST training.
• Stable road conditions: Managed reservoir area with moderate traffic.
• Multiple distances: Flexible options from 30 to 80 km.
• Convenient resupply: Several convenience stores around the reservoir.

Road Conditions and Safety

Some sections of the lakeside loop are narrow. Points to note:

• Near the dam: Many tour buses; weekend mornings are recommended.
• Lakeside tunnels: Two short tunnels; turn on your bike lights.
• Descending curves: Sharp turns near Yishan Pavilion; keep speed below 40 km/h.
• Amuping section: Industrial roads are narrow; watch for oncoming traffic.

Practical Tips

• Best season: March–May and October–November; avoid summer thunderstorms.
• Start time: 6–8 AM, when traffic is light and visibility is good.
• Gear: Bring plenty of water, tire repair tools, and bike lights.
• Return trip: You can take a bus from Daxi back to Taoyuan or Taipei.
• Extended route: Can connect toward Lala Mountain for a Taoyuan mountain challenge.

Conclusion

Shimen Reservoir is the “home route” for cyclists in the north—moderate intensity, rich scenery, and tempting food. From the quick lakeside loop, to the extended Amuping adventure, to the cultural experience of Daxi Old Street, this reservoir offers a diverse range of cycling experiences. Next time you’re looking for a classic route in the Taoyuan–Hsinchu area, Shimen Reservoir is definitely the top choice.

Related Reading

• Shimen Reservoir Lakeside Loop in Taoyuan: A Family-Friendly Weekend Route
• Shimen Reservoir Lakeside Loop in Taoyuan: A Complete Guide to Riding Around a Northern Taiwan Reservoir
• Daxi Old Street to Shimen Reservoir Route in Taoyuan: A Complete Guide to Riding with Reservoir Lake Views
• Northern Cycling Highlights: A Weekend Ride from the Tamsui River Bikeway to Shimen Reservoir