Readers’ Photos

Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival (Liu Zhaojun)

Attracting swimmers from across the world, the Sun Moon Lake International Swimming Carnival is the largest and oldest event in the area. Each year, more than 10,000 participants gather at Zhaowu Pier to swim a distance of 3,000 meters, sharing in the momentous occasion. 

Marathon Swimming Around Green Island (Chen Qixuan)

The sea around Green Island is known for its pristine beauty. Here, marathon swimmers can not only admire the island’s rich landscape and seascape but also experience the flourishing ecology of its coral reefs.

Mud Sports (Xu Chengrui)

Mud sports are intended to drive home the message that “children will not form an attachment to their hometown if they don’t put their feet in the mud.” Tug of war is a sport that depends on teamwork. Playing the sport in a fallow rice paddy, your feet will sink deep into the wet earth, and both children and grownups can enjoy wallowing in the mud.

A “Blessing Marathon” in Xiluo (Zhang Wenxiong)

Bringing together tradition and modernity, this marathon at Xiluo in Yunlin County is a festive event that incorporates religious elements such as the electric-techno neon gods often seen at temple fairs. Besides encouraging physical activity, the race serves to promote Xiluo’s local culture.

Golden Paddies (Li Shengzhang)

Sanqi Village in Yilan’s Dongshan Township is promoting cycling activities in the midst of its paddy fields. In this idyllic environment, tourists can enjoy the warm summer breezes and feast their eyes on the rippling fields of golden grain. The fresh air and the open rural landscape offer a unique sensory experience.

Healthy Tai Chi (Wang Zhaogui)

People gather together to practice tai chi in a leafy park. Characterized by slow and graceful movements, tai chi is a gentle sport that promises physical and mental relaxation. Its benefits include promoting emotional equilibrium, strengthening core muscles, improving balance, and improving heart and lung function.

The Joy of Cycling (Huang Guanrui)

Known for its bicycle industry, Taiwan has earned the sobriquet of “Cycle Kingdom.” Here cyclists can weave their way through city traffic, or enjoy themed cycle routes in scenic areas, such as Romantic Route 3 (along Provincial Highway 3), trails to Taiwan’s northermost, westernmost, southernmost and easternmost lighthouses, and the bike trail around Sun Moon Lake. Throughout the country, commuters and leisure seekers alike have embraced this form of exercise.

Cycling by the River (Wang Zhaogui)

Cycling offers an opportunity to exercise the body and contemplate quieter pleasures. Riding at dusk in Taipei’s Dajia Riverside Park, you can keep fit while enjoying the charming suroundings.

Kiteboarding near the Twin Candlestick Islets (Li Shengzhang)

The Twin Candlestick Islets, off the coast of New Taipei’s Jinshan Township, once formed the columns of a sea arch. Its top was eroded away and eventually collapsed into the sea, leaving behind the stacks we see today. A paradise for water sports enthusiasts, Taiwan’s North Coast is perfect for kiteboarding in summer.