July 22, 2025
Introduction to Sun Moon Lake
Nestled in the central mountains of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the largest natural lake in the country and one of its most iconic destinations. With its calm, mirror-like waters and misty mountain backdrop, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural depth. Whether you’re here for scenery, spirituality, or simply to unwind, this lakeside gem has something for everyone.
The Origin of Its Name
Sun Moon Lake gets its poetic name from the shape of its two halves: the eastern side resembles a round sun, while the western side curves like a crescent moon. This unique form has inspired travelers and locals alike. According to indigenous Thao legend, the lake also holds spiritual meaning, adding a layer of mystique to its beauty.
Outdoor Paradise for Nature Lovers
If you’re into outdoor activities, Sun Moon Lake won’t disappoint. The lakeside bike trail is often ranked among the most beautiful in the world. You can also enjoy kayaking, boat cruises, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply hiking through nearby forest trails. It’s a great place to reconnect with nature at your own pace.
Spiritual Sites & Indigenous Culture
Sun Moon Lake is home to a rich cultural landscape. Must-see spots include Wenwu Temple, the tranquil Xuanzang Temple, and Ci’en Pagoda, all offering sweeping lake views. The region is also the homeland of the Thao people, and you can experience their traditions through cultural centers, performances, and local handicrafts.
Scenic Cable Car & Theme Park Access
For panoramic views, ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway, a cable car that connects the lake to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. This combo attraction is perfect for families or culture seekers, offering everything from thrilling rides to indigenous exhibits. The view from the gondola—especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season—is unforgettable.
A Peaceful Retreat with Easy Access
Whether you choose a lakeside hotel, cozy B&B, or a hot spring resort in nearby Shuishe or Ita Thao, Sun Moon Lake is the perfect place to relax. Wake up to sunrise over the water, enjoy peaceful evening strolls, or sip tea with a view. Located in Nantou County, it’s easily reachable from Taichung or Taipei, and is beautiful year-round—each season brings a new reason to visit.
How to Get to Sun Moon Lake
Despite its mountainous location, Sun Moon Lake is surprisingly easy to reach thanks to Taiwan’s excellent transportation system. Whether you’re coming from Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung, there are several convenient ways to make the journey—by train, bus, car, or even a guided tour.
From Taichung
Sun Moon Lake is closest to Taichung, making it a popular departure city.
Option A: Day Tour From Taichung
- Sun Moon Lake & Cingjing Farm (From Taichung)
- Sun Moon Lake & Cingjing Farm (Taichung City Hotel Pickup)
- Sun Moon Lake (From Taichung)
- Sun Moon Lake Crescent Bay & Gaomei Wetlands (From Taichung)
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Day Trip (From Taichung)
Option B: Nantou Bus (Most Common)
Take the Nantou Bus 6670 from:
- Taichung Railway Station (TRA) or Taichung HSR Station
- The ride takes about 90 minutes
Bus No. 6670 Route: Taichung Gancheng Station → Taichung Railway Station → HSR Taichung Station → Puli Station → NCNU → Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village → Sun Moon Lake → Xiangshan Vistor Center
From Taipei
Option A: Day Tour From Taipei
Several companies offer day tours from Taipei with hotel pick-up and guided itineraries. This is a good option if you want convenience and a stress-free experience.
- Sun Moon Lake (From Taipei)
- Sun Moon Lake (From Taipei)
- Chiayi Alishan & Nantou Sun Moon Lake 3-day tour (From Taipei)
Option B: High-Speed Rail (HSR) + Bus
- Take the HSR from Taipei to Taichung (about 1 hour).
- From Taichung HSR Station, transfer to the Nantou Bus bound for Sun Moon Lake (about 90–120 minutes).
- Walk to Exit 5 and take the Nantou Bus to Sun Moon Lake.
Buses are frequent and comfortable, with a final stop at Xiangshan Vistor Center, the main entrance to Sun Moon Lake.
Option C: By Bus From Taipei
- Kuo-Kuang Bus Company (Bus No. 1833)
- Driving time: about 4 hours
- Taipei Bus Station departure times: 06:50, 07:20, 08:20, 10:20, 15:20
- Departure time from Sun Moon Lake: 09:45, 11:45, 14:45, 16:45
Option D: Car Rental with Driver From Taipei (klook)
Shuttle and Local Transportation Around the Lake
Once you arrive at Sun Moon Lake:
- Use boat shuttles between Shuishe, Ita Thao, and Xuanguang piers.
- The Sun Moon Lake Tour Bus allows you to hop on and off at key stops.
- Bike and scooter rentals are widely available near all major piers.
Sun Moon Lake Tour Bus No. 6669
The Sun Moon Lake Tour Bus No. 6669 is a convenient and scenic way to explore the most iconic stops around the lake—without needing to rent a car or bike. This circular route connects temples, trails, cultural sites, and beautiful viewpoints, making it perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in one day.
Bus No. 6669 Route
Sun Moon Lake (Shuishe visitor center) 日月潭 ⇄ Fleur De Chine Hotel 雲品酒店 ⇄ Wenwu Temple 文武廟 ⇄ Songbolun Hiking Trail 松柏崙步道 ⇄ Peacock Garden 孔雀園 ⇄ Dazhuhu Hiking Trail 大竹湖步道 ⇄ Shueiuatou Hiking Trail 水蛙頭步道 ⇄ Sun Moon Lake Ropeway 日月潭纜車 ⇄ Ita Thao 伊達邵 ⇄ Tutingzai Hiking Trail 土亭仔步道 ⇄ Syuentzang Temple 玄奘寺 ⇄ Ci’en Pagoda 慈恩塔 ⇄ Syuanguang Temple 玄光寺
Fare Information
- With EasyCard/iPASS: NT$45
- Cash Fare: NT$51
Tip: Use an EasyCard for a smoother experience and slight discount. You can also transfer from other Nantou buses if needed.
Be sure to tap your card both when getting on and off the bus.
Failing to do so may result in your card being locked and unusable until it’s reset at a service counter.
Sun Moon Lake Tour Bus Timetable
If you’re looking for a relaxed and affordable way to explore all the top sights around Sun Moon Lake, Tour Bus 6669 is your go-to option. This loop route connects major attractions including temples, hiking trails, gardens, and the ropeway station—all in one scenic ride.
Half loop takes about 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
From Sun Moon Lake (Shuishe visitor center) to Xuanguang Temple
09:00, 09:50, 10:40, 11:50, 14:00, 15:00, 15:50, 17:05
Return: From Xuanguang Temple back to Shuishe
09:40, 10:35, 11:20, 12:30, 14:50, 15:40, 16:30, 18:00
One-Day Itinerary for Sun Moon Lake
If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of Sun Moon Lake, here’s a simple and fulfilling one-day plan that covers the highlights:
Morning
- Start at Shuishe Pier: Rent a bike or grab a boat ticket.
- Boat Ride to Ita Thao Village: Enjoy the serene water views as you cruise across the lake.
- Explore Ita Thao: Wander through the village, sample local snacks like grilled wild boar sausage and handmade mochi, and browse indigenous crafts.
Late Morning
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: Take the cable car from Ita Thao to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and, if time permits, explore the culture park.
Lunch
Have lunch at one of the restaurants near the ropeway or back in Ita Thao, trying local specialties like President Fish or bamboo rice.
Afternoon
Visit Wenwu Temple: Head back to the northern shore and explore this beautiful lakeside temple with views of the entire lake.
Hike the Xiangshan Trail: For a gentle walk with fantastic viewpoints overlooking the lake.
Late Afternoon
Ci’en Pagoda (慈恩塔): Climb or drive up to the pagoda for sunset views. The pagoda offers a peaceful atmosphere and sweeping vistas.
Evening
Dinner at Shuishe or Ita Thao Night Market: Enjoy local street food, relax by the lakeside, and soak in the tranquil night ambiance.
Where to Stay at Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake Hotel offers a wide range of accommodation options, from lakeside luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels. Depending on your travel style and what you want to experience, you’ll find the perfect place to rest and enjoy the view.
Lakeside Hotels for Scenic Views
If waking up to the sunrise over the lake is on your wish list, consider booking a lakeside hotel. These places often come with private balconies, large windows, and direct access to walking or biking paths.
- GRAND HILAI SUN MOON LAKE – A luxurious 5-star resort
- The Lalu Sun Moon Lake – An upscale option with minimalist design and panoramic views, ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
- Fleur de Chine Hotel – A luxurious 5-star resort with natural hot springs, lake views, and exceptional dining.
Boutique Inns and B&Bs
For a more local and intimate feel, boutique bed & breakfasts (B&Bs) are a great choice. Many are family-run, with personalized service and charming decor.
- Hotel Del Lago – Located right next to Shuishe Pier, perfect for easy access to boat tours and the bike path.
- Laurel Villa B&B – Known for its stylish rooms and friendly hosts.
- Sun Moon Lake Queen Castle Hotel – The hotel has an exquisite European style and is just a few steps away from Ita Thao Night Market.
▼ Overnight: Sun Moon Lake Queen Castle Hotel
Budget-Friendly Hostels and Guesthouses
Backpackers and budget travelers will find plenty of affordable stays near Shuishe and Ita Thao villages. These areas are well connected and still offer beautiful scenery.
- Sun Moon Lake Youth Activity Center – Great for students and group travelers.
- OWL Hostel – A simple and convenient option close to Ita Thao Night Market.
Best Areas to Stay
- Shuishe Village: Ideal for first-time visitors with easy access to buses, boat tours, and restaurants.
- Ita Thao Village: Great for cultural experiences, food, and the ropeway.
- Xiangshan Area: More secluded, quieter, and ideal for nature-focused travelers.
Things to Do in Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is so huge that it is impossible to tour the entire lake in one day. When you come to Sun Moon Lake, the most recommended thing is to rent a bicycle and ride around the lake.
If you don’t want to expend too much energy, you can also take a walk on the pier or take a boat tour on the lake. It is recommended that you choose a few attractions that you like and visit them slowly.
Ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway
For amazing aerial views of Sun Moon Lake and the nearby mountains, take a ride on the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway. This 1.87 km cable car connects the Sun Moon Lake Station (near the Visitor Center) to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
The ride takes about 7 minutes one way and offers stunning views, especially in autumn when the leaves change color
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway Tickets Price
- Adults: NT$380 – Sun Moon Lake Ropeway Ticket
- Concession: NT$300 (seniors 65+, kids under 6, pregnant, disabled)
- Group Rate (20+): NT$330 per person (advance booking required)
Tip: Discounts may be available through combo tickets or the Taiwan Fun Pass, so check ahead.
Opening Hours
- Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Closed: First Wednesday of each month (for maintenance)
Operations may be suspended during bad weather, so check ahead if conditions are uncertain.
Read more about Sun Moon Lake Ropeway
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway Stations
The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway connects two key stations—one by the lake and one inside a cultural theme park—offering a scenic 7-minute ride over the mountains and forest. Each station has its own features to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Cherry Blossom Biking Route
Sun Moon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
Cherry Blossoms Season: From February to early March, cherry blossoms can be viewed in the park.
1. National Chi Nan University Cherry Blossom Forest:
The National Chi Nan University library → Li Xue Slope → College of Humanities → Administration Building → Formosana Road → University Entrance → Sheep Zone → Sakura Zone → End (About 4 kilometers)
2. Dongguang Cherry Blossom Forest:
Dun Yuan Tang Old Mansion → Centennial Tramway → Tsai Family Butterfly Manor (Flow Cage ride) → Dongguang Jewel Orchid Garden Area → Legend of the Mountain Dongguang Rose Garden → Centennial Sea Fig Tree → Youling Temple (View cherry blossoms in the forest) → Long Ge Bicycle Shop → End (About 4 kilometers)
3. Sun Moon Lake:
Zhongxing parking lot → Sun Moon Lake Bikeway → Shuishe Dam → Xiangshan Visitor Center → Crescent Bay → Turn back (About 4 kilometers)
Cycle the Famous Sun Moon Lake Bike Path
One of the most popular activities at Sun Moon Lake is biking along the scenic circular bikeway, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world. The route stretches around the lake, offering picturesque views, rest areas, and bridges that allow you to ride right over the water.
Sun Moon Lake has a bike path that loops around the lake, offering one of the most scenic cycling routes in Taiwan. It’s a great way to explore the area at your own pace and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The Sun Moon Lake Loop Road is 33 kilometers long and the mountain road is winding.
Rentals are available at both Shuishe Pier and Ita Thao Village, including regular bikes, e-bikes, and even tandem options for couples or families.
For tourists who don’t have much time, the most convenient and time-saving way is to drive around the lake and stop at a few favorite spots.
- Sun Moon Lake Biking Day Pass in Nantou
- Sun Moon Lake Bole Electric Bikes – Bike Rental Vouchers
- Sun Moon Lake Traveler Bike – Bike rental around the lake
If you ride a bike, I recommend the following attractions.
- Xiangshan Bikeway Sun Moon Lake Bikeway (向山自行車道)
- Xiangshang Visitor Center (向山行政暨遊客中心)
- Nine Frog Acrobats (九蛙疊像/ if possible): Locals use the number of frogs that emerge from the water to roughly calculate how much water is left.
Take a Boat Tour Across the Lake
If you want to travel a wider area, you can take a boat to tour Sun Moon Lake, because many of Sun Moon Lake’s popular attractions are near the three major piers of Sun Moon Lake.
For tourists who don’t have much time, the most convenient and time-saving way is to drive around the lake and stop at a few favorite spots
To get the full perspective of the lake’s shape and scale, hop on a leisure boat tour that connects Shuishe, Ita Thao, and Xuanguang Piers. The boat ride gives you sweeping views of the mountains and temples surrounding the lake.
You can purchase a one-way ticket or a day pass that allows you to hop on and off at different stops throughout the day.
■ Sun Moon Lake Electric Boat, Canoe and Pedal Boat Experience in Nantou
Visit Cultural and Spiritual Landmarks
- Sun Moon Lake is surrounded by significant cultural sites. Don’t miss:
- Wenwu Temple – a majestic structure with lion statues, large staircases, and great lake views.
- Xuanzang Temple – built in honor of the Tang Dynasty monk who brought Buddhist scriptures from India.
- Ci’en Pagoda – constructed by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother, this towering structure offers panoramic views from the top.
Explore Ita Thao Village
Ita Thao is one of the most popular villages around Sun Moon Lake, offering both traditional Taiwanese culture and modern convenience. You can explore the streets, visit indigenous shops, or enjoy the local food stalls and the peaceful atmosphere of a lakeside village.
Located on the southeastern shore, Ita Thao Village is the cultural heart of the Thao people. It’s also a foodie hotspot, with plenty of street food stalls, souvenir shops, and lakeside cafés. Must-try items include grilled wild boar, bamboo rice, black tea-infused snacks, and handmade mochi. This area also hosts performances and cultural displays on weekends and holidays.
What to experience: Indigenous performances, traditional crafts, and insights into the Thao people’s way of life. You can also try local delicacies or buy handmade indigenous products.
Hike the Surrounding Trails
There are 14 trails around Sun Moon Lake. Nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful hiking trails around the lake.
Four Great Views of Sun Moon Lake
▎Maolan Mountain Trail (貓囒山步道)
One-way distance: 4.6KM (circular) & Walking time: 2.5 hours (round trip)
▎Houjian Mountain Trail (後尖山步道)
One-way distance: 6.5KM (circular) & Walking time: 4 hours (round trip)
▎Qinglong Mountain Trail (青龍山步道)
One-way distance: 2.2KM (one-way) & Walking time: 2 hours (one-way)
▎Shuishe Great Mountain Trail (水社大山登山步道)
One-way distance: 6KM (circular) & Walking time: 8 hours (round trip)
Popular options include:
▎Yuetan Bikeway Trail (月潭自行車步道)
One-way distance: 7.5KM (one-way) & Walking time: 3.5 hours (one way) Bicycle time: 1.5 hours (one way)
▎Hanbi Trail (涵碧步道)
One-way distance: 1.5KM (circular) & Walking time: 1 hour (round trip)
▎Shuishe Lakeside Trail (水社親水步道)
One-way distance: 1.5KM (one-way) & Walking time: 1 hour (one-way)
▎Neihu Mountain Trail (內湖山步道)
One-way distance: 1.5KM (circular) & Walking time: 1.5 hours (loop)
▎Year of Steps at Wenwu Temple (文武廟年梯步道)
One-way distance: 0.16KM (one-way) & Walking time: 30 minutes (one-way)
▎Songbolun Hiking Trail (松柏崙步道)
One-way distance: 0.6KM (one-way) & Walking time: 50 minutes (one-way)
▎Dazhuhu Trail (大竹湖步道)
One-way distance: 0.1KM (one-way) & Walking time: 15 minutes (one-way)
▎Shuiwatou Trail (水蛙頭步道)
One-way distance: 0.5KM (one-way) & Walking time: 60 minutes (one-way)
▎Ita Thau Lakeside Trail (伊達邵親水步道)
One-way distance: 0.5KM (one-way) & Walking time: 40 minutes (one-way)
▎Tutingzai Hiking Trail (亭仔步道)
One-way distance: 0.6KM (one-way) & Walking time: 50 minutes (one-way)
Enjoy a Peaceful Sunrise or Sunset
Sun Moon Lake is best experienced during the golden hours. Early risers can watch the mist roll over the water at dawn, while sunset casts the lake in hues of orange and purple. The best viewpoints include Ci’en Pagoda, Xiangshan Visitor Center, and Shuishe Dam.
Relax at the Xiangshang Visitor Center
Located at the eastern shore of the lake, the Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center is a modern and architectural marvel. It’s a good place to start your visit to the area, as it offers information on local attractions, and it’s a great spot to relax and take in the views.
The Xiangshang Visitor Center is both for tourism and administration use. The uniquely designed building has wood-patterned exteriors and wings that stretch like human arms embracing the earth.
In addition, the two giant canopy structures, 34 meters long and 8 meters tall each, allow people to enjoy beautiful views of the Sun Moon Lake from the top.
Other Spots and Water Activities
If you have time, you might consider going to these places.
■ Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Ticket
■ Qingjing Skywalk and Swiss Garden Ticket
■ Sun Moon Lake SUP Experience in Nantou
■ Sun Moon Lake Canoe Experience in Nantou
■ Nantou: Paragliding Experience at Puli
What to Eat at Sun Moon Lake
One of the best ways to experience the culture of Sun Moon Lake is through its unique local cuisine, which blends indigenous flavors with Taiwanese street food traditions. Whether you’re wandering through the lively Ita Thao Night Market or enjoying a sit-down meal with lake views, there are plenty of delicious dishes to explore.
Ah Po Tea Eggs (金盆阿嬤香菇茶葉蛋)
Locals who travel to Sun Moon Lake have the habit of buying Ah Po Tea Eggs (short for tea egg stalls). According to news reports, in 2013, the Sun Moon Lake Grandma Tea Eggs (Jinpen A Ma Xiang Gu Cha Ye Dan) became increasingly popular, with sales reaching around 3,000 eggs per day.
The tax collector stood outside, counting how much she could sell in a day. But she chose to underreport her taxes, making her the subject of an audit by Taiwan tax officials. Because Grandma’s Tea Eggs are so famous, the surrounding stalls are also called Grandma’s Tea Eggs, but they are much less well-known.
Grilled Wild Boar Sausage (山豬肉香腸)
A signature dish in the Thao indigenous community, this smoky, juicy sausage is often grilled on skewers and sold at food stalls throughout Ita Thao Village. It’s seasoned with native spices and usually served with garlic or chili for an extra kick.
Bamboo Rice (竹筒飯)
A traditional dish made by steaming sticky rice inside hollow bamboo tubes. It’s often filled with mushrooms, pork, or peanuts, giving it a fragrant, earthy flavor. You’ll find it at many roadside vendors and aboriginal food stalls.
Assam Black Tea (日月潭紅茶)
Sun Moon Lake is famous for its rich and aromatic Assam tea, a legacy from the Japanese colonial era. Visit a local tea shop or farm to try it freshly brewed, or pick up a beautifully packaged box as a souvenir. Popular varieties include Ruby No. 18 and Sun Moon Lake No. 21.
Indigenous Beverages
Besides tea, try unique indigenous drinks like millet wine (小米酒) or herbal infusions made from mountain plants. These are often sold in Ita Thao and provide a taste of local heritage in every sip.
Opening Hours
- Sun Moon Lake Scenic Area: 24H
- Xiangshang Visitor Center: 09:00–17:00
- Sun Moon Lake Ropeway(Cable Car): 10:30–16:00
- Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village: 09:30–17:00
The Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful natural scenery, making them the best times to visit Sun Moon Lake. Overall, the best time for your visit will depend on your personal preferences for weather, activities, and the type of experience you’re looking for at Sun Moon Lake.
The best time to visit Sun Moon Lake largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and the overall experience you’re seeking. Best Time for Specific Activities:
Cycling and Hiking: Spring and autumn are the best times for outdoor activities like cycling around the lake or hiking. The weather is cooler, and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
Photography: The best times for photography are spring and autumn, when the weather is clear and the natural beauty around the lake is at its peak, especially with vibrant foliage in the fall.
Boat Tours: You can enjoy boat tours year-round, but spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Birdwatching: Winter (especially from December to February) is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds pass through the area.
