Changpi Lake is a natural lake. Due to its narrow and elongated gourd-like shape, locals refer to it as "Changpi" (meaning "long lake"). In the 1904 edition of the Taiwan Fort Map, it was labeled as "Piao Lake" (Gourd Lake). During the Japanese colonial period, the area around the lake served as an important military horse ranch.
The lake's water mainly comes from rainfall and underground springs, allowing it to naturally regulate its water level. In response to the county government's policy to promote tourism, the local township office of Sanxing, together with the county government, actively redeveloped Changpi Lake into a tourist attraction. The lake area is surrounded by many subtropical plants, and the air is rich in negative ions and phytoncides, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and fitness.
The Changpi Lake Scenic Recreation Area is located in Sanxing Township, Yilan County, at an altitude of around 200 meters. Its landscape is dominated by the lake, surrounded by steep forested terrain and shale geology, creating a uniquely beautiful setting. Travelers driving along Provincial Highway 7C, en route to places such as Qingshui Geothermal Area, Niudou Jioujhihze, Cilan, Mingchi, Taipingshan, or Lishan, will inevitably pass by Changpi Lake. With its spacious surroundings and large parking lot, the area is an ideal rest stop during a journey.