The Most Beautiful Sunrise Bay in Lanyu

In Lanyu, mornings are not awakened by alarm clocks but by a golden ray of light on the horizon. If you ask, "Where is the best place to watch the sunrise in Lanyu?"—locals will unhesitatingly answer, "Dongqing Bay." This spot is not only a favorite for photography enthusiasts but also the first stop where many travelers form a deep connection with Lanyu. 🌞 Sunrise Bay × The Moment Time Seems to Stand Still Dongqing Bay is located on the eastern coast of Lanyu, a natural bay facing the Pacific Ocean. At dawn, the sun slowly rises from the horizon, turning the sea from deep blue to golden orange, accompanied by the sound of waves and the early morning breeze—it's a beauty that feels almost unreal. Many people wake up early before dawn, bringing hot coffee and sitting on the rocks by the shore to wait for the break of day. At this moment, Dongqing Bay offers only you, the sound of waves, the occasional passing of a traditional canoe, and the rhythm of your own breathing. 📸 Recommended Photography Times: 👉🏻 04:45–05:30 (Summer) / 05:15–06:00 (Winter) 👉🏻 Capture the sun rising from the horizon, silhouette compositions, and stunning backlit portraits 🚣♂️ Traditional Life Scenes with Canoes and Flying Fish Season Beyond the sunrise, Dongqing Bay preserves the most vivid aspects of the traditional culture of the Tao (Yami) people. This bay is one of the main ports for Lanyu's traditional canoes, and during the flying fish season (March–June), you can often see locals in traditional attire heading out to fish or drying flying fish—a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature. 🌾 If you're lucky, you might witness the rituals held before the "Flying Fish Festival," a cultural tradition that embodies respect and gratitude for the ocean. 🌊 Traveler Tips: ✔ Arrive before 4:30 AM to secure a spot and quietly wait for the sunrise ✔ Wear light long sleeves, bring a mat or small chair, and a windproof jacket ✔ For photography, use your phone's wide-angle mode + night mode/HDR for better results ✔ Avoid loud noises to maintain the serene viewing experience and respect local residents 🍃 Slow Travel at Dongqing Bay After watching the sunrise, don't rush to leave. Take a stroll around Dongqing Bay to explore local canoe workshops, painted stones, and small local shops; or find a seaside breakfast spot to enjoy a bowl of hot soup and slowly start your day in Lanyu. ✔ Nearby attractions: Lover's Cave, Yeyou Tribe, Grassland ✔ You can also rent a scooter to explore the hidden coastal gems along Lanyu's eastern shore Watching the sunrise at Dongqing Bay is not just the reward for waking up early, but a pure dialogue exchanged with nature. In our travels, we often seek moments of tranquility, and here, you’ll find not only peace but also respect, culture, and a heartfelt connection to the sea.