Located in the middle of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is a captivating natural wonder that offers travelers an enchanting escape into serenity and beauty. Renowned for its serene waters that reflect the surrounding lush mountains, this scenic lake is a haven for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the variety of activities that Sun Moon Lake has to offer, from leisurely boat rides and scenic cycling paths to cultural landmarks, ensuring a memorable journeyThe act of traveling from one place to another, which can in... through one of Taiwan’s most cherished landscapes.
Best things to do in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan – a quick overview:
- Sun Moon Ropeway
- Formosa Aboriginal Village
- Ita Thao Pier
- Shuishe Village and Pier
- Qinglong Mountain to Cien Pagoda HikingA long, vigorous walk, usually on trails or footpaths in the... Trail (1.5 km)
- Ita Thao Lakeside Hiking Trail (.9 km)
- Sun Moon Lake Bikeway (30 km)
- Jiji Bikeway (22 km)
- Shuishe to Xiangshan Bikeway Above Water (3.4 km)
- Sum Moon Lake Shuttle Boat
- Round the Lake Bus Tour
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- Should You Visit Sun Moon Lake?
- What Is So Special About Sun Moon Lake?
- How To Get To Sun Moon Lake?
- Getting Around Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan.
- How Many Days Do You Need in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan?
- Where To Stay in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan
- History of Sun Moon Lake
- Things To Do in Sun Moon Lake
- Common Questions About Sun Moon Lake
- Packing List for Sun Moon Lake
- Other Places to Visit Near Sun Moon Lake
Please note: This blog post may contain some affiliateIn the context of travel, this refers to a partnership betwe... links. More info.
Should You Visit Sun Moon Lake?
Sun Moon Lake is a resort area, mostly frequented by Taiwanese. One big appeal of Sun Moon Lake is that it is authentic, and you will not see many westerners here. On the other hand, like many resort towns, some attractionsPlaces of interest to tourists, such as historical sites, mu... in Sun Moon Lake can feel touristA person who travels to and visits destinations outside thei... trappy. Later in the article, I discuss some attractions you can safely skip.
In addition to “locals only” feel, Sun Moon Lake is a good place to visit if you enjoy hiking and biking. Perhaps the top reason to visit Sun Moon Lake is for its beautiful nature. Visit here if you love nature, hiking or biking. Skip this area is you are looking for big-city feel, shopping, or luxurious hotelsCommercial establishments providing lodging, meals, and othe....
Taiwan Tour Packages:
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What Is So Special About Sun Moon Lake?
Sun Moon Lake, located in the heart of Taiwan, stands out as a premier destinationThe place to which a person is going or being sent, often us... for its exceptional natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This breathtaking lake is celebrated for its crystal-clear azure waters and the lush, verdant mountains that frame it, creating a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Visitors are drawn to Sun Moon Lake not just for its scenic views but also for the variety of activities that enhance their connectionA transfer point in travel itineraries, where travelers swit... with nature. Here, you can indulge in leisurely strolls along well-maintained paths, enjoy scenic boat rides that offer panoramic views of the area, or engage in more vigorous hikes on trails that wind through the surrounding landscape, revealing new scenery and perspectives.
The lake is culturally significant as well, hosting several temples and historic sites that are seamlessly integrated into the natural environment. This blend of natural and cultural heritage makes Sun Moon Lake a uniquely enriching experience, appealing to those who seek both relaxation and a deeper understanding of Taiwanese cultureThe set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices th....
Sun Moon Lake is special because it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Taiwan.
How To Get To Sun Moon Lake?
You can get to Sun Moon Lake from Taipei or Taichung via a direct bus. Busses from Taichung take about 1.5 hours and leave every hour. These are run by a private company and leave from an area close to Taichung Station, but not from the station itself. Ask your hotel for the bus schedule, but leave a little early. Give yourself extra time to find the company that operates the busses.
The most flexible option to get to Sun Moon Lake is by rental car. These car rentalA service that rents automobiles for short periods of time, ... companies offer the best rates in Taiwan:
- Skyscanner – Car rentalsServices that allow travelers to rent automobiles for short ... in Taichung
- Hotwire – Car rentals in Taichung
- Expedia – Car rentals in Taiwan
- Zipcar – A car share service, often a one-month membership is much cheaper than renting a car
Getting Around Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan.
There are three main ways to get around Sun Moon Lake. The first is by rental car. This is easily the most flexible option. Although more expensive, rental cars can save you hours of waiting.
The second way to get around Sun Moon Lake is by boat. This is fun, and pleasant, especially in good weather. Buy a day pass for the boat shuttle service for about 9 USD. The boats stop in 3 areas around the lake. From each stop, you can access some of the biggest attractions in Sun Moon Lake. The disadvantage of the shuttle boat is that you’ll need to wait for a boat and that some major attractions are not easy to access from boat docks.
The third way to get around Sun Moon Lake is by shuttle bus. The bus is inexpensive but sometimes it takes more than an hour to show up. The bus is an easy way to access many more attractions than the boat. The disadvantage of getting around Sun Moon Lake by bus is that you’ll often need to wait.
| Ways to Get Around Sun Moon Lake | Details |
|---|---|
| Rental Car | Renting a car is the most flexible option. Although it is more expensive, rental cars can save you lots of waiting time. |
| Boat | Traveling by boat is fun and pleasant, especially in good weather. A day pass for the boat shuttle service costs about 9 USD, and boats stop in three areas around the lake, providing access to major attractions. However, you will need to wait for boats, and some major attractions are not easily accessible from the boat docks. |
| Shuttle Bus | The shuttle bus is inexpensive and provides access to more attractions than the boat. However, buses sometimes take more than an hour to show up, so you may experience long waiting times. |
How Many Days Do You Need in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan?
You can easily see all the major attractions in 2-3 days. This also gives you plenty of time for hiking or biking around the area. Ideally, try to spend two nights at Sun Moon Lake, but one night is ok too.
Where To Stay in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan
If you are getting to Sun Moon Lake by public transport, the best area to stay in Sun Moon Lake is Shuishe Village. This is the area where all the out of town buses to arrive. If you stay in the village, you can get around Sun Moon Lake easily by boat, bus, and bike. Additionally, when you are ready to leave you won’t need to schlep your suitcases around town but walkIn hotel industry terminology, the situation where a guest w... straight to the bus stop a few blocks from your hotel. Compare Sun Moon Lake Hotel Prices here:
Hotels.Com – Sun Moon Lake Hotels
Tripadvisor.com – Sun Moon Lake Hotels
History of Sun Moon Lake
For thousands of years, the lake was homeIn travel, refers to the place where a person resides perman... to the Thao people, an aboriginal tribe. Legend says that Thao hunters discovered the lake while chasing a white deer. The deer led them here and then disappeared. The small island you’ll notice in the middle of the lake is a place the Thao people used for worship. During the Qing Dynasty, the original Thao settlers were joined by a large number of Han Chinese and the Pingpu tribe. As you travel around the lake you’ll encounter musical performances and stores run by the Thao descendants.
Sun Moon Lake became a popular tourist destination during the Japanese rule in the early 20th century. An ideal location for a getaway from Taichung, Sun Moon Lake remains a high-end resort town. The lake is famous around many parts of Asia for its constantly changing appearance, ranging from misty to blue sky and back again in a matter of minutes.
Things To Do in Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan – Hiking Trails
Sun moon lake is famous for its nature. Hiking is, perhaps, one of the best things to do in this area. All around the lake, you’ll find dozens of well-maintained trails. And the best part is that since only a few people hike here, the trails are virtually empty. Some of the most popular sun moon lake trails include:
- Hanbil Trail – 1.5 km – This trail passes through several historical sites, including Meihe Park, Christian Church, Yule Pavilion and Sentries.
- Neihu Mountain Trail 1.5 km – Trailhead is behind the Wenwu Temple. Hike through an ancient Chinese fir and bamboo forest.
- Songbolun Hiking Trail 1.2 km – An ancient trail Thao people used to transport salt.
- Shuishe Great Mountain Trail 5.6 km – Hike up to 2,059 meters above the sea level. 8-hour trail ideal for advanced hikers.
- Tutingzai Hiking Trail .6 km – Trailhead is at the old resident site of the Thao tribe. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a mini lighthouse.
- Qinglong Mountain to Cien Pagoda Trail – 1.5 km – Hike past two temples to the pagoda at the top of Sun Moon Lake. A more detailed description later in this article.
- Ita Thao Lakeside Trail .9 km – An easy trail that starts at Ita Thao Pier and takes you over a biologically diverse environment. A more detailed description later in this article.
Biking Trails in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan
Biking is a popular activity in Sun Moon Lake. Dozens of bike rental stores line the main street in every major village. If you enjoy biking, Sun Moon Lake is a paradise.
- Lake Road Path 30 km – Start at Shuishe Village and proceed to the Ita Thao along the lake. This path will take you half away around the lake. Afterward, take a ferryA boat or ship for conveying passengers (and sometimes vehic... back to Shuishe.
- Shuishe to Xiangshan 3.4 km – Take the “Bikeway above water” as you pass by the Shuishe Dam and the “One Heart Forever” (Yongjietongxin) bridgeOn a ship, the area or platform from which the ship is comma....
- Xiangshan to New Moon Bay (3.4 km) – Starting at Xiangshan Administration, cycle past the Toushe Dam and the New Moon bay.
- Shuishe to Wenwu Temple – a mix of lake and forest scenery with brilliant views.
- Toushe Bikeway (.8 km) – Checheng Visitor Center to Shuli River, this path is mostly forested.
- Jiji Around the Town Bikeway 20.9 k – takes you out of the immediate Sun Moon Lake into Jiji, the nearby township. Passes by the Jiji Green Tunnel, Rail Station and Endemic Species Research Institute.
Qinglong Mountain to Cien Pagoda Trail
This spectacular hiking trail is one of the most rewarding experiences Sun Moon Lake – and is almost entirely empty.
Start the journey at the Xuanguang harbor. Here, walk about 10 minutes up to the small Xuanguang temple. A lot of tourists make this part of the journey, so it’s likely to be very crowded here. After the small temple, continue on the path up the mountain. Within just a few minutes you are likely to see no one at all. This path is mostly uphill and is almost entirely shallow stairs.
Eventually, you will reachIn marketing, including travel marketing, reach refers to th... the spectacular Xuanzang Temple, much bigger than the temple below. After you explore the area, proceed further up the mountain. Here, after another 20 minutes, you will finally reach the Ci-En Pagoda, the symbol of Sun Moon Lake. From the top, you can see the entire lake and the temples below.
Sun Moon Lake Travel Tip: On the Quinglong Mountain Trail, you will hike the total length of 1.5 km, mostly stairs. Knee supports may be helpful.
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway and Aboriginal Village
The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway is probably the most well-promoted attractions in the region. Fun? Yes. But also not unique. After a rather long wait, you enter a cable car that allows you to travel over the mountains. There is no observation deckA floor or level of a ship or boat, often referred to when d... here, so you actually land back in a valley next to the entry to the Aboriginal Village. Because I got here late I did not have a chance to enter the village. However, from speaking with other travelers, the village is very touristy and inauthentic. Of course, it was created especially for tourists – so that makes sense. If I had to do it all over again, I would have skipped the ropeway all together in favor of an extra few hours on a biking or a hiking trail.
Sun Moon Lake Travel Tip:
Consider skipping the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway in favor of an extra few hours hiking or biking around the lake.
Lakeside Trail
Even if you are not a big fan of hiking, be sure to take a few hours to explore the easy and fun Lakeside Trail. The trail starts at Ita Thao Pier, continues towards the ropeway center and past it, along the lake. The trail is flat and accessible virtually to all. As you explore this area you’ll notice dozens of species of butterflies, hundreds of birds and, if you are lucky, monkeys. This easy walk is an absolute must-do on your list of things to do in Sun Moon Lake.
Ita Thao Pier
One of the three stops on the Sun Moon Lake shuttle boat, Ita Thao Pier is both beautiful and fun to explore. From this pier, you can easily access a few important Sun Moon Lake Locations. Here you’ll find the ropeway, the lakeside trail, and the visitors center. The village surrounding the pier hosts an excellent night marketIn travel, it refers to the potential customers or demand fo... and an endless variety of restaurants. Ita Thao Gazebo is one of the most famous symbols of Sun Moon Lake.
Shuishe Pier
The most central part of Sun Moon Lake, Shuishe Pier, is an area that boasts the most hotels, restaurants, and activities. Many of the bicycling paths originate at Shuishe but there is little hiking in the immediate area. However, the night market here is fantastic and offers a lot of variety. On a clear day the Pagoda is clearly visible across the lake from Shuishe Pier, and all the boats dock here for the night. Finally, the out of town buses stop in close proximity to the pier. As I mentioned before, if you are travelling to Sun Moon Lake by public transport, you can find no better place to stay than by Shuishe Pier.
Common Questions About Sun Moon Lake
How to Get to Sun Moon Lake From Taipei?
Busses directly from Taipei leave every few hours from the main bus station. Without traffic, it takes a little over 4 hours to get from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake via bus. You can not travel between Sun Moon Lake and Taipei via the train, as there are no stations in Sun Moon Lake.
How Far is Taipei From Sun Moon Lake?
Sun Moon Lake is located approximately 155 miles (250 kilometers) from Taipei. By private car, you can drive from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake in about 3 hours. By bus, the ride is closer to four hours.
Packing List for Sun Moon Lake
- Light Rainjacket (1)
- Hiking sneakers (1)
- Bikini (1 to 2)
- Cute around the city sneakers (1)
- Ballet Flats (1)
- Tank Tops (2 to 4)
- Shorts (1)
- Day time dresses (2)
- Evening dresses (1)
- Short hiking pants (1 to 2)
- Jogging Bra (1)
- Hiking Top (1)
- A Light Backpack (1)
- A purse big enough to fit the essentials (1)
Other Places to Visit Near Sun Moon Lake
It is easy to access both Taipei and Taichung from Sun Moon Lake. For Taipei, hop on a direct bus from Sun Moon Lake, and you will arrive in the capital in about 3 hours. Taichung is closer, and the bus takes only about one and a half hours. Jiji township is located only a few minutes from Sun Moon Lake and offers a variety of nature-related activities.
Also Read: Things to do in Taichung
