Sun Moon Lake Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to buy, and more in Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is a breathtaking natural attraction located in Nantou County, in Central Taiwan. It is the largest body of water in Taiwan, and its name comes from its unique shape, which resembles a sun on one side and a crescent moon on the other. This picturesque destination is known for its crystal-clear waters, mountainous surroundings, and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Sun Moon Lake

When visiting Sun Moon Lake, there are plenty of exciting places to explore, each with its own unique charm. Here’s a list of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration: This administrative office serves as a great starting point for any visit to Sun Moon Lake. Here, you’ll find information on the area’s history, culture, and attractions.
  • Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village: This village showcases the history and culture of Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes, and offers cultural performances, exhibitions, and more.
  • Ci’en Pagoda: This iconic seven-story pagoda is a symbol of Sun Moon Lake and offers great views of the surrounding area.
  • Wenwu Temple: This beautiful temple honors Confucius, the God of Literature, and the God of War, and showcases traditional Chinese architecture.

Natural Attractions of Sun Moon Lake: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: This gondola takes you on a ride up to the top of the mountain, where you can take in an aerial view of the lake and surrounding area.
  • Xiangshan Visitor Center: This center offers exhibits on the surrounding wildlife, as well as breathtaking views of the lake.
  • Xuanzang Temple: Also known as the Holy Monk Shrine, this temple honors the famous Chinese monk Xuanzang and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
  • Hiking Trails: There are plenty of hiking trails around Sun Moon Lake, each offering its own unique challenge and breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sun Moon Lake

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in Sun Moon Lake, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are a few that shouldn’t be missed:

  • Syueshan Mountain: This challenging hike offers incredible views of Sun Moon Lake and the surrounding mountains. The summit stands at 3,886 meters and is Taiwan’s second-highest peak.
  • Lalu Island: This bike path takes you around the perimeter of Lalu Island, offering stunning views of the lake along the way.
  • Cardinal Trail: This 12-kilometer trail takes you through the scenic forest and offers breathtaking views of the lake from various angles.

Best Things to Do in Sun Moon Lake: Activities and Tours

Sun Moon Lake offers plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are a few popular options:

  • Boat Tours: Take a scenic boat tour of Sun Moon Lake for a unique perspective and stunning views.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the many biking trails around Sun Moon Lake.
  • Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Sun Moon Lake.
  • Hot Springs: Visit one of the many hot springs around Sun Moon Lake for a relaxing soak.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sun Moon Lake

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sun Moon Lake, consider this sample itinerary:

Day 1 Arrival and check-in
Day 2 Explore Wenwu Temple and Ci’en Pagoda
Day 3 Visit Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Day 4 Take a scenic boat tour and hike
Day 5 Cycling around Lalu Island
Day 6 Soak in a local hot spring
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Sun Moon Lake

No trip to Sun Moon Lake is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Here are a few dishes and beverages you won’t want to miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maqaw pepper shrimp: This local specialty is a must-try for seafood lovers. The shrimp are cooked with Maqaw pepper, giving them a unique and delicious flavor.
  • Pork belly rice: This tasty dish consists of rice topped with juicy pork belly, served with vegetables and pickles on the side.
  • Vegetarian options: Sun Moon Lake is also known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, including vegetarian hot pot and vegetarian dumplings.

Local Beverages

  • Sun Moon Lake black tea: This specialty tea is grown in the surrounding mountains and is known for its smooth and flavorful taste.
  • Plum wine: Made from fresh plums grown in the area, this sweet and tangy wine is a popular local drink.

Where to Stay in Sun Moon Lake: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sun Moon Lake offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular choices:

  • Fleur de Chine Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Sun Moon Lake, as well as a spa, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options.
  • Lealea Garden Hotels - Sun Moon Lake: This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Cingjing Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the nearby mountain village of Cingjing and offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Sun Moon Lake: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sun Moon Lake is known for its local products, which make great souvenirs to bring home. Here are a few ideas:

  • Sun Moon Lake black tea: This specialty tea is a great reminder of your trip to Sun Moon Lake.
  • Maqaw pepper: This locally grown pepper is known for its unique flavor and makes a great seasoning for any dish.
  • Handmade souvenirs: You can find a variety of handmade souvenirs, such as pottery, woodcarvings, and textiles, in the nearby mountain villages.

Local Culture and Customs of Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is rich in culture and tradition. Here are a few customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Aboriginal cultures: Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes have a strong presence in Sun Moon Lake, and their traditions and customs are an important part of the area’s cultural heritage.
  • Temples: Temples are an important part of Taiwanese culture, and you’ll find many beautiful temples around Sun Moon Lake.
  • Tea culture: Taiwan is known for its tea culture, and you can learn more about this tradition by visiting local tea shops and plantations.

Best Time to Visit Sun Moon Lake

The best time to visit Sun Moon Lake is from March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, each season offers its own unique beauty, so it’s worth visiting year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sun Moon Lake

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you make the most of your visit to Sun Moon Lake:

Do:

  • Do take a boat tour around Sun Moon Lake for stunning views.
  • Do hike or bike around the area for an up-close look at its natural beauty.
  • Do try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t swim in prohibited areas.

Safety and Health

When visiting Sun Moon Lake, it’s important to be aware of safety and health concerns. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Sun Moon Lake

  • Swimming in Sun Moon Lake is only allowed in designated areas.
  • Be cautious when cycling or hiking, as some trails can be challenging and may require proper gear.
  • Take caution when near the water, as the currents can be strong.

Health in Sun Moon Lake

  • Tap water in Sun Moon Lake is safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available.
  • Sunscreen and bug repellent are recommended for outdoor activities.

Getting to Sun Moon Lake: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sun Moon Lake is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here’s what you need to know:

  • By Bus: There are frequent buses from major cities in Taiwan to Sun Moon Lake.
  • By Train: The nearest train station is Taichung, which is about an hour and a half from Sun Moon Lake by bus or taxi.
  • By Plane: The nearest airport is Taichung International Airport, which is about an hour and a half from Sun Moon Lake by bus or taxi.

How to Get Around in Sun Moon Lake

There are several modes of transportation within Sun Moon Lake:

  • Shuttle Buses: Shuttle buses run around the lake and to nearby attractions.
  • Bike Rentals: Bikes can be rented at several shops around Sun Moon Lake.
  • Boat Tours: Boat tours are a great way to see the lake and surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Sun Moon Lake: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting, including:

  • Cingjing Farm: This mountain village is known for its beautiful scenery, cool weather, and adorable sheep.
  • Puli Township: This township offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s traditional architecture and is known for its night market.
  • Taichung City: This major city offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions, as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Sun Moon Lake offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, touring museums, or simply relaxing by the lake, Sun Moon Lake has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can explore all that this beautiful destination has to offer.