First in Six Major Cities, 'Lalashan' Certified as International Dark Sky Sanctuary

Taoyuan's Lalashan, home to not only thousand-year-old trees but also a brilliant galaxy, has now officially received international 'Dark Sky Sanctuary' certification, becoming the first in the six major cities. It practices the concept of 'dark sky, bright land' by reducing light pollution. Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng accepted the official certification of International Dark Sky Sanctuary on behalf of all Taoyuan citizens. This marks the first time a city among the six major cities has received this international honor. Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng: "Obtaining this dark sky certification is very, very difficult. Only over 200 places worldwide can receive this certification. Taiwan has the second location; the first is Hehuanshan, which is a Dark Sky Park. The second is Taoyuan's Lalashan, which is considered a Dark Sky Sanctuary in a metropolitan area." The International Dark-Sky Association has very strict certification standards for Dark Sky Sanctuaries, requiring them to be located in towns or cities with a population of over 50,000. Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng: "Most people associate Taiwan with its technology and advancement. However, Lalashan this time shows that Taiwan also has another side – an environment that is very natural and allows everyone to appreciate the dark sky and the galaxy."