About Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is the largest natural inland lake in Taiwan, with an altitude of 760 meters and an area of approximately 1,022 hectares. It is a beautiful alpine lake located in Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan. In January 1981, it was officially upgraded to “Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area”. Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular scenic tourist attractions in central Taiwan. The government is committed to turning it into a resort with beautiful scenery and Thao culture as its theme. The entire lake area is surrounded by mountains, and the sunrise and sunset scenery is even more charming.
Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most iconic and scenic destinations, located in the central part of the island in Nantou County. Known for its breathtaking beauty, the lake is surrounded by lush mountains and is the largest body of water in Taiwan, making it a popular spot for both nature lovers and tourists seeking tranquility. The lake gets its name from its unique shape: the eastern side is round like the sun, while the western side is crescent-shaped, resembling the moon. This striking characteristic is what gives Sun Moon Lake its poetic name.
The lake holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, with the Lalu Island in the center of the lake being considered a sacred site by the indigenous Thao people. The area is also home to several important temples and pagodas, including the Xuanguang Temple and the Ci’en Pagoda, which add a spiritual dimension to the natural beauty.
Surrounded by forested mountains, Sun Moon Lake offers a range of activities that highlight its serene landscapes. Visitors can enjoy leisurely boat tours on the lake, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. The Sun Moon Lake bike trail is another popular attraction, offering cyclists a chance to take in the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.
The area is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites, temples, and festivals throughout the year. The Sun Moon Lake International Fireworks Festival, held annually, is a stunning event that lights up the night sky above the lake.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, outdoor activities, or cultural exploration, Sun Moon Lake is a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality.
Places to Visit 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.
✅Purchase Your Discounted Tickets in advance (klook)
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.
If you take a boat, I recommend the following attractions.
■ Xuanguang Temple Pier 玄光碼頭
■ Jinpen A Ma Xiang Gu Cha Ye Dan (Grandma Mushroom Tea Eggs) 金盆阿嬤的香菇茶葉蛋
■ Xuanguang Temple玄光寺
■ Shuishe Pier 水社碼頭
■ Ita Thao Pier 伊達邵碼頭
Sun Moon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
Cherry Blossoms Season: From February to early March, cherry blossoms can be viewed in the park.
Cherry Blossom Biking Tours: Recommend Route 1, 2, 3
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)
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)
Sun Moon Lake:
Zhongxing parking lot → Sun Moon Lake Bikeway → Shuishe Dam → Xiangshan Visitor Center → Crescent Bay → Turn back (About 4 kilometers)
Best Things to Do in
Sun Moon Lake is a stunning destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, boating, or simply enjoying the scenery, there’s something for everyone at this iconic Taiwanese lake.
Take a Boat Tour on the Lake
If you want to travel a wider area, you can take a yacht 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. A boat tour is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sun Moon Lake from the water. As you glide across the lake, you’ll get stunning views of the surrounding mountains, temples, and Lalu Island.
Bike Around the Lake
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. In addition to driving or cycling around the lake, the lakeside bike path has also become a popular choice for tourists in recent years. It allows you to get closer to the lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and if it is in the cooler season, you can also feel the cool breeze. 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.
Visit the Temples
Sun Moon Lake is home to several temples and cultural sites that reflect Taiwan’s spiritual heritage. The Wenwu Temple and Xuanguang Temple are among the most famous, offering visitors a chance to experience local architecture and religious practices.
Explore the Thao Village and Cultural Experiences
The Thao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups, live around Sun Moon Lake, and you can visit their village to learn more about their traditions, culture, and history. 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.
Visit the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway
The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway offers an exhilarating way to experience the area from above. The cable car takes you from the Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center to Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, a theme park with an indigenous village and amusement park rides.
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.
Take a Stroll Around 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.
Sun Moon Lake is a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re cycling around the lake, visiting temples, or simply soaking in the views, you’ll find something special to enjoy in this beautiful area of Taiwan.
If you have time, you might consider going to these places.
The Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village 九族文化村
Qingjing Farm 清境農場
■ Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Ticket
■ Qingjing Skywalk and Swiss Garden Ticket
Eat and Drink in Sun Moon Lake
Ah Po Tea Eggs
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.
Sun Moon Lake Fish
Sun Moon Lake is known for its fresh fish, especially the black bass, which is commonly featured in local dishes. Many lakeside restaurants and eateries around Ita Thao Village serve this dish.
Bamboo Rice
What it is: Bamboo rice is a traditional dish of rice cooked inside a bamboo tube, infused with the natural flavors of the bamboo and often mixed with savory ingredients like mushrooms, meats, or nuts. It’s a simple but flavorful meal with a smoky aroma. You can find bamboo rice in Ita Thao Village or at indigenous restaurants around the lake, often served with a variety of fillings.
Sun Moon Lake Tea
What it is: Sun Moon Lake is located in a region famous for its tea cultivation, particularly Ruby Red Tea (日月潭红茶), which is a special Taiwanese black tea with a rich, smooth taste. The tea is known for its natural sweetness and complexity. You can sample and purchase Sun Moon Lake tea at local tea shops around the lake, such as in Ita Thao Village or at tea plantations on the surrounding hills. Many shops offer tea-tasting experiences.
Indigenous Cuisine
The Thao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes, live around Sun Moon Lake, and you can experience their traditional food. Indigenous dishes often include wild game, bamboo shoots, and local herbs. Many restaurants around Ita Thao Village and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village offer indigenous-style meals. Dishes like wild boar or mountain vegetables are a must-try for an authentic experience.
Local Snacks
As you stroll around Sun Moon Lake, especially near Ita Thao Village, you’ll find local street food vendors offering a variety of tasty Taiwanese snacks. These might include grilled corn, fried tofu, mochi, and bubble tea. Street vendors around the lakeside, in the village, and by the visitor centers are the best places to enjoy these snacks.
Indigenous Fruit Wines
You may also come across local fruit wines made from mountain fruits like passion fruit or plum, produced by the indigenous people of the area. These wines are typically sweet and refreshing, making them a great way to try something unique to the region. Local shops and indigenous restaurants in Ita Thao Village may offer fruit wines made from local produce.
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
Price
Sun Moon Lake Scenic Area: Free Entrance
Sun Moon Lake Boat Ticket: NT$300
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway(Cable Car): NT$300
Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village: NT$850
✅Purchase Your Discounted Tickets in advance (klook)
■ Sun Moon Lake Ropeway Ticket
■ Sun Moon Lake Boat Ticket
■ Sun Moon Lake Biking Day Pass in Nantou
■ Sun Moon Lake Bole Electric Bikes – Bike Rental Vouchers
■ Sun Moon Lake Electric Boat, Canoe and Pedal Boat Experience in Nantou
■ Sun Moon Lake Traveler Bike – Bike rental around the lake
■ Sun Moon Lake SUP Experience in Nantou
■ Sun Moon Lake Canoe Experience in Nantou
■ Nantou: Paragliding Experience at Puli
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.
Overnight: Sun Moon Lake Queen Castle Hotel
How to get to?
About Day Tour
There are many diffenent ways from Taipei Main Station. You can plan which transportation to take based on where you live. Below I have listed the buses in detail.
Because you are not familiar with transportation, your round trip could take up to 4.5 hours. If you live in Taipei, I recommend taking a day tour. This way you can have fun without worrying about which station to get off and transfer to another bus, and then you can sleep peacefully on the car. For convenience, almost all Foreign tourists will choose a day tour to Sun Moon Lake, or rent a car and let the driver go to Sun Moon Lake. Don’t doubt it, one-day tour is your best choice.
Day Tour From Taipei (klook)
■ Sun Moon Lake (From Taipei)
■ Sun Moon Lake (From Taipei)
■ Chiayi Alishan & Nantou Sun Moon Lake 3-day tour (From Taipei)
Car Rental with Driver From Taipei (klook)
■ Private Day Tour to Sun Moon Lake (From Taipei)
Day Tour From Taichung (klook)
■ 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)
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
By HSR or TRA + Bus
Take HSR or TRA to Taichung → Nantou Bus No. 6670
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
Sun Moon Lake Tour Bus
Bus No. 6669 Route: Sun Moon Lake ← → Fleur De Chine Hotel ← → Wenwu Temple ← → Songbolun Hiking Trail ← → Peacock Garden ← → Dajhuhu Hiking Trail ← → Shueiuatou Hiking Trail ← → Sun Moon Lake Ropeway ← → Ita Thao ← → Tutingzai Hiking Trail ← → Syuentzang Temple ← → Cien Pagoda ← → Syuanguang Temple
✅Hiking Tour
■ 2D1N or 2D2N Yushan Hiking Tour in Nantou
■ Nantou｜Three Peaks of Hehuan Mountain & Little Qilai Prairie 2 Days 1 Night Mountaineering Tour
✅ Alishan Multi-Day Tour
■ Chiayi Alishan Day Tour & Multi-Day Tour (From Chiayi)
■ Chiayi Alishan & Nantou Sun Moon Lake 3-day tour (From Taipei)
🔥ChiaTe Pineapple Cake / Delivery or Airport Pickup
■ ChiaTe Bakery Pineapple Pastry-Delivery(Home / Hotel) / Airport Pickup (klook)
Prepare your trip to Taiwan?✈️Buy discounted tickets in advance (Klook)
■ EasyCard and SIM Card Package
■ Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket
■ Taipei Double Decker Sightseeing Bus
■ National Palace Museum Ticket
■ Taipei Fun Pass (Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Taipei MRT, city buses, and 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle)
■ Taipei Transport Fun Pass (Taipei MRT, city buses, 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle routes, and Maokong Gondol)
■ Taipei Metro (MRT) Day Pass
■ (Taiwan Pass) HSR + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Day Pass
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese Discounts or Buy 1 Get 1
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Joint Ticket
■ (Taiwan Pass) Taiwan Railways + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle