A tree known as the "Taiwanese Lonely Tree" and famous for its reflection in Sun Moon Lake breaks during Typhoon Bavi… leaving visitors disappointed and unhappy. 

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A well-known scenic landmark at Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake has been severely damaged after strong winds from Typhoon Bavi snapped its branches. The so-called “Taiwanese lonely tree”, a willow standing in the water along the lakeside cycling path, was famous for its reflection surrounded by mountains and sky. 

Visitors recently discovered the tree broken, its branches collapsed onto the lake’s surface, leaving behind rare, withered limbs. The tree had long been a highlight for cyclists and photographers traveling the popular route. 

“It doesn’t look like the photos online,” one visitor said. “When we got here, it was clear the typhoon had knocked it down.” Another visitor noted the stark contrast, adding, “If there’s somewhere you want to visit, go early, or a typhoon could wipe it out.”

The tree, known locally as a waterside willow, gained its nickname for its resemblance to New Zealand’s famous lone Wānaka Willow Tree. Its appearance shifted with the water level, sometimes even standing on a sandbar during droughts. Authorities and visitors now hope it can recover and regrow, restoring the lake’s signature view.