Sun Moon Lake, located in Yuchi Township, Nantou County, is a stunning lake and one of the most beloved attractions in Taiwan. It's also a must-visit for foreign travelers. The name "Sun Moon Lake" comes from the shape of the lake, with the northern part resembling a broad sun and the southern part stretching out like a crescent moon, divided by Lalu Island.

Visitors to Sun Moon Lake can not only experience the lakeside cycling path and take a cable car ride for a panoramic view of the entire lake, but also explore historical temples and the bustling Ita Thao Shopping Street. The characteristic Taiwanese cuisine and lakeside accommodations with a front-row view of the lake are additional reasons that draw a large number of tourists to Sun Moon Lake every year. It consistently ranks among the top 10 regions for foreign tourists visiting Taiwan.

>> Click here to inquire about a Sun Moon Lake private car tour <<

 

Now, continue reading to get a comprehensive understanding of

• How to get to Sun Moon Lake?
• How to explore Sun Moon Lake?
• Which attractions to visit at Sun Moon Lake?
• How to plan an itinerary for Sun Moon Lake?
• What are the must-try delicacies at Sun Moon Lake?
• Where to stay at Sun Moon Lake?
• What events are happening at Sun Moon Lake in 2023?

Let me guide you through how to enjoy your trip to Sun Moon Lake, step by step!"

How to Get to Sun Moon Lake？

 1. By Car

⇒ From the North:

Route A

National Highway No. 3 → Wufeng Interchange (National Highway No. 6) → Exit at Ailan Interchange (Take Provincial Highway No. 14 towards Puli) → Puli (Take Provincial Highway No. 21) → Yuchi Township → Sun Moon Lake 

Route B

National Highway No. 1 → Changhua System (National Highway No. 3) Southbound → Wufeng Interchange (National Highway No. 6) → Exit at Ailan Interchange (Take Provincial Highway No. 14 towards Puli) → Puli (Take Provincial Highway No. 21) → Yuchi Township → Sun Moon Lake

Route C

National Highway No. 3 → Caotun Interchange (Take Provincial Highway No. 14 towards Puli) → Puli (Take Provincial Highway No. 21) → Yuchi Township → Sun Moon Lake

⇒ From the South:

Route A

National Highway No. 1 → Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 78 Expressway → National Highway No. 3 → Exit at Jhushan Interchange → Jiji (Take Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 3, then transfer to Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 16) → Shueili (Take Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 16) → Arrive at Sun Moon Lake (Take Provincial Highway No. 21)

Route B

National Highway No. 3 → Exit at Jhushan Interchange → Jiji (Take Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 3, then transfer to Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 16) → Shueili (Take Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 16) → Arrive at Sun Moon Lake (Take Provincial Highway No. 21)"

 

 2. Public Transportation

 (Image Source: Taiwan Tourism Bureau) )

Start by taking a Taiwan Railway or High-Speed Rail to Taichung Station, then transfer to Taiwan Good Travel's 6670 - Sun Moon Lake Line. Alight at Sun Moon Lake Station.

 3.Private Charter

For those seeking a more flexible tour, consider chartering a vehicle from Taichung or the airport to Sun Moon Lake. Many travel agencies or private drivers offer one-day or two-day tours to Sun Moon Lake. Typically, the charter includes transportation and driver fees, and some may even include guided commentary. This option is well-suited for families or groups of friends, providing a convenient way to explore Sun Moon Lake.

Recommended Charter >>> Click Here

How to Explore Sun Moon Lake?

 1.Lakeside Cycling Tour

The lakeside cycling tour is the most popular activity at Sun Moon Lake. The cycling path around Sun Moon Lake has been selected by CNN as one of the ten most beautiful cycling routes worldwide. The loop around the lake is approximately 30 kilometers. Visitors can rent a bicycle at the Xiangshan Visitor Center or Shuishe Pier, and along the way, they can enjoy the picturesque scenery of Sun Moon Lake. It's the best way to experience the natural beauty of Sun Moon Lake.

 2. Lake Tour by Boat

Taking a boat tour is another wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of Sun Moon Lake. Enjoying the magnificent views of Sun Moon Lake from the water allows you to dock at piers such as Shuishe Pier, Ita Thao Pier, and Xuanguang Temple Pier. After arriving at the pier, you can also disembark and explore nearby shopping streets and attractions. It can be said that taking a boat tour is the best choice for both sightseeing and transportation at Sun Moon Lake.

Purchase Boat Tickets >>> Click Here

 3. Take the Cable Car

The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway connects Ita Thao at Sun Moon Lake with the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. Visitors can take the cable car to have an aerial view of Sun Moon Lake, offering an excellent way to appreciate the panoramic beauty of the lake.

Purchase Cable Car Tickets >>>  Click Here

 4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on the Lake

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on the lake has become a popular new activity at Sun Moon Lake in recent years. The calm lake surface is perfect for beginners to experience SUP. You can stand on the SUP board and paddle across the lake, providing a firsthand experience of the aquatic charm of Sun Moon Lake.

Recommended SUP Experience >>> Click Here

Which Attractions to Visit at Sun Moon Lake? 

 1. Xiangshan Visitor Center

(圖片來源 : 日月潭國家風景區)

The architecture follows the principles of minimalistic design, utilizing exposed concrete construction methods, harmonizing with the greenery and the lake surface. This simplicity creates a tranquil atmosphere without excessive distractions, allowing visitors to unwind. In addition to providing tourist information, there is a cantilevered viewing platform that offers a panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake, providing an opportunity to admire the sacred ancestral grounds of the Thao tribe, known as 'Lalu Island'.

 2. Sun Moon Lake Wenwu Temple"

(圖片來源 : 日月潭國家風景區)

With a long and storied history, the temple has undergone continuous reconstruction and expansion, gradually evolving into the magnificent Chinese-style temple we see today. This ancient temple also offers a prime vantage point for viewing Sun Moon Lake, especially during the enchanting moments of sunset.

 3. 伊達邵商店街 Thao Tribe old street

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

Idatao is a tribal community of the indigenous Thao people. Today, Idatao Shopping Street stands as the liveliest area around Sun Moon Lake. Here, you can savor a variety of local delicacies such as stone-grilled pork, President Fish pastry, Assam-flavored stuffed tofu, and more. It's also a great place to shop for souvenirs and take a break.

 4. Shuishe Wharf

(圖片來源 : 日月潭國家風景區)

Near Shuishe Pier, there are numerous shops and restaurants. You can rent bicycles here and also take boats to two other piers, namely 'Ita Thao Pier' and 'Xuanguang Temple Pier'. This area can be considered as the gateway to Sun Moon Lake, serving as the starting point for exploring the lake.

 5. Ci En Pagoda

(圖片來源 : 日月潭國家風景區)

Cien Pagoda is a renowned landmark of Sun Moon Lake, standing at 46 meters tall. It was constructed by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother, Madame Wang, and was built between 1969 and 1971. Climbing up Cien Pagoda offers a panoramic view of the picturesque scenery of Sun Moon Lake. The Chinese-style tower is an excellent spot for photography and enjoying the beauty of Sun Moon Lake.

 6. Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

Located beside Sun Moon Lake in Yuchi Township, Nantou, the Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory is an old tea factory within the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area, making it a must-visit for black tea enthusiasts, especially for the Taiwanese tea variety known as 'Tai Cha No. 18'. Those who have visited are captivated by its historically rich exterior and the intense aroma of tea. In 2003, they decided to rebrand and transition towards organic, toxin-free tea production. Within the factory's corridors, you can observe ancient windows and weathered walls, as if time stands still here, leaving only the fragrance of tea.

When the factory is not in production, visitors can explore for free. It's recommended that those who come to Sun Moon Lake take the opportunity to experience the enlightenment this land gains from tea leaves.

 

 7. Manhuan Coffee

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

Manhuang Coffee is definitely a must-visit spot in Nantou. From the moment it opened, this café quickly became one of the most popular photo spots on Instagram, with every corner seemingly designed for photography

Walking into Manhuang Coffee, you'll be drawn to its clean and bright space. With high ceilings, large glass windows on all sides, and minimalist white and wooden furnishings, it feels like stepping into a place of purity. It's not just a place for coffee, but also a space where you can completely relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Sun Moon Lake.

Of course, coming to Manhuang Coffee isn't just for photography. Their coffee beans are roasted in-house, and the owners frequently travel around the world in search of the finest coffee beans. Manhuang Coffee offers not only delicious flavors but also a dual enjoyment of visual and gustatory delights!

How to Plan Your Sun Moon Lake Itinerary?

One-Day Tour Suggestion

 1. Lakeside Cycling at Sun Moon Lake: Rent a bike and cycle around the lake on dedicated cycling paths, experiencing the natural beauty around..

 2. Ita Thao Shopping Street: Taste local specialties in this area.

 3. Lake Tour by Boat: Take a boat ride on the lake for a close-up view of its beauty

 4. Cien Pagoda: Here, you can ascend for a panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake.

Two-Day Tour Suggestion

Day 1

 1. Lakeside Cycling at Sun Moon Lake: Enjoy a cycling tour around the lake, immersing in the local nature.

 2. Wenwu Temple: Appreciate its unique architecture and historical background.

 3. Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: Experience the thrill and enjoy the aerial view.

 4. Ita Thao Shopping Street: Shop and dine in the evening.

Day 2:

 1. Sunrise Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) at Sun Moon Lake: Greet the sunrise from the lake.

 2. Manhuang Coffee.

 3. Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory: Experience the enlightenment this land gains from tea leaves.

 

The attractions at Sun Moon Lake are relatively spread out, and relying on public transportation might consume a significant amount of time waiting and transferring. Therefore, chartering a vehicle is a crucial option for your Sun Moon Lake trip. Not only can you freely choose your desired duration at each stop, but you can also adjust your itinerary according to your pace and interests. Charter drivers are typically well-acquainted with the local area and may provide recommendations for attractions or local delicacies that you might not have heard of, making your journey more comprehensive and immersive.

Recommended Charter >>> Click Here

 

What to Eat at Sun Moon Lake?

 1.Grandma Jinben's Shiitake Tea Eggs

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

Grandma's Tea Eggs are truly a classic at Sun Moon Lake! Once you arrive at Xuanguang Temple Pier by boat, you can almost immediately catch a whiff of their enchanting aroma. Each tea egg is marinated for a whopping six hours to reach its full flavor! When you crack one open, the fragrance is simply irresistible – it's safe to say they're a signature dish among Sun Moon Lake delicacies.

Address: No. 338, Zhongzheng Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County
 

 2. Dong Dong Gua Bao

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

The 'Tofu and Braised Pork Belly Gua Bao' at Dong Dong Gua Bao is a must-try signature! The tofu is marinated to perfection, combined with tender and fatty braised pork belly, shredded cucumber, and pickled mustard greens. It's all wrapped up and sprinkled with crispy soybeans and cilantro. With one bite, the explosion of flavors and textures in your mouth is simply irresistible, leaving you hooked from the first taste.

Address: No. 111, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County.

 3. Rice Rice Chicken Wings

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

At Sun Moon Lake, you must try my favorite dish, 'Rice Rice Chicken Wings'. The chicken wings are deboned and stuffed with glutinous rice, undergoing several complex steps to create this special dish. The skin of the chicken wings is crispy, the glutinous rice is chewy, and they're paired with grilled chicken. It's then generously garnished with scallions and seasoned with pepper for added flavor. The texture and taste are both exceptional, making it a must-try delicacy.

Address: 1st Floor, No. 79, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County."

 4. Liu Shange Stone Grill BBQ

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

It has been certified by Shishang players! The most popular thing about Liu Shange Slate Barbeque is their Magaoshan pork and sausage. The boss skillfully stir-fries the pork with onions and sprinkles it with a handful of fresh chopped green onions. Every bite is full of rich aroma. The tender mountain pork and juicy sausages are so small that you can’t stop eating them!

Address: No. 27, Shuishalian Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County

 5. Nian Ji Shiitake Mushroom and Cabbage Bun

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

At Nian Ji Shiitake Mushroom and Cabbage Bun, the pan-fried buns here are entirely handmade, each one even bigger than my fist, yet priced at only 50 NTD. With every bite, you'll experience the fullness of mountain cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, and glass noodles. What makes it unique is that it's also an excellent choice for vegetarians! For extra flavor, don't forget to add some spicy sauce to elevate the taste experience even further! Lastly, a little reminder: they're freshly fried and piping hot, so take care not to burn your mouth!

Address: No. 95, Wenhua Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County."

Where to Stay at Sun Moon Lake?

 1.日月潭鴻賓大飯店( Sun Moon Lake Apollo Hotel )

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

"The Fleur de Chine Hotel, located right at the forefront of the Shuishe Pier, has recently undergone a thorough renovation. This hotel not only boasts a prime location but also offers lakeview rooms facing the magnificent Sun Moon Lake. With only three rooms per floor, you can indulge in exclusive tranquility. Not to mention, the uniquely designed circular balconies perfectly capture every moment of Sun Moon Lake. Stepping inside, you'll instantly fall in love with it. Plus, just a few steps away, you can embark on a lake cruise or stroll through the gourmet street.

Address: No. 3, Mingsheng Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County."

 2. 日月潭大淶閣飯店 ( Hotel Del Lago )

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

Looking for an economical yet comfortable lakeside hotel at Sun Moon Lake? The DaLaGe Hotel is situated in the first row of the Sun Moon Lake's picturesque scenery, offering affordable prices without compromising on the quality of your stay. It's right next to the Shuishe Shopping Street, making shopping and dining incredibly convenient. All rooms are equipped with 32-inch LCD TVs, and lake-facing rooms come with scenic balconies for an up-close view of Sun Moon Lake's most beautiful landscapes. As an added bonus, the hotel provides complimentary bicycles, allowing you to ride along the lakeside all the way to the Xiangshan Visitor Center.

Address: No. 101, Zhongshan Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County."

 3. 雲品溫泉酒店日月潭 ( Fleur De Chine Hotel )

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

The Sun Moon Lake Hotel is the first hot spring hotel at Sun Moon Lake and is a five-star international resort. It is located in the quieter northern area, providing a tranquil environment for a relaxing getaway. The hotel offers various room types, including lakeview rooms, mountain view rooms, and lakeview suites, each equipped with its own hot spring for guests to enjoy. There are also six restaurants within the hotel, offering a diverse range of both Eastern and Western cuisines, allowing guests to indulge in fine dining without leaving the premises. The hotel also provides a range of amenities and services, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and spa center, ensuring guests can maintain their well-being and relax both physically and mentally during their travels.

Address: No. 23, Zhongzheng Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County.

 4. 日月潭涵碧樓酒店 ( The Lalu Sun Moon Lake )

(圖片來源 : Google Map)

The Lalu Hotel, located at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan, is a renowned resort often hailed as one of the "must-stay" hotels in a lifetime. Designed by the late legendary architect Kerry Hill, it embraces a minimalist style that harmonizes with the Zen-like landscape of Sun Moon Lake. With a design ethos focused on coexistence with nature and complemented by attentive service, it creates a truly unique vacation experience. The Lalu boasts exceptional lake views and is divided into three buildings: Building A, which houses guest rooms; Building B, encompassing leisure facilities such as a spa, gym, and sauna; and Building C, which includes villas, meeting rooms, and a library. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and elegantly furnished, offering magnificent views of the lake. The spa experience is also exceptional, providing complete relaxation for the body and mind. The restaurant serves exquisitely delicious cuisine that authentically represents local Taiwanese flavors. If you have the opportunity to visit Sun Moon Lake, be sure to allocate time for a stay at The Lalu and experience the unique charm of this top-tier resort.

Address: No. 142, Zhongxing Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan.

What are the activities at Sun Moon Lake?

 1. 2023 Sun Moon Lake Swimming Challenge with One Million Participants

( 圖片來源：2023日月潭國際萬人泳渡日月潭官網 )

Event Date：September 24, 2023

Swimming Route:

Starting Point: Chao Wu Pier

Ending Point: Da Chao Pier (formerly known as De Hua Pier)

The total length of the waterway is approximately 3,000 meters, with a width of 100 meters.:

Event Website : Official Website of Sun Moon Lake International One Million Participants Swimming Challenge

 

 2. 2023 Sun Moon Lake Fireworks and Music Festival

( For more information about Sun Moon Lake events＞＞＞click here ) 

There are three different sessions of concerts with various performance styles:

1.【Taiwan Mobile Sun Moon Lake Fireworks and Music Concert "Gen.AI Blossom・Love"】
Date and Time: 10/21 (Sat) Starting at 19:00
Venue: Sun Moon Lake Shuishe Zhongxing Parking Lot

2.【Dance and Shine on Sun Moon Lake Concert】
Date and Time: 11/04 (Sat) Starting at 17:00
Venue: Dadaochiao Pier

3.【NTSO Taiwan Wind Ensemble Fireworks Music Concert】
Date and Time: 11/18 (Sat) Starting at 19:00
Venue: Xiangshan Visitor Center

 

 3. 2023 Come! Bike Day Bicycle Series Event - Bike Theme Day

• Date: 10/14 (Sat) 07:00-15:00 

• Event Location: Xiangshan Visitor Center

• Event Details

1. Round-the-Lake Boat and Bike Challenge

2. Children's Balance Bike - Individual Completion Race, Group Completion Race

3. Guided Cycling Tour - Xiangshan Section

4. 2023 Sun Moon Lake Black Tea Cultural Festival

The Black Tea Cultural Festival in Yuchi Township is one of Taiwan's most representative agricultural promotion events. It combines local agricultural products, Hakka culture, the Thao indigenous tribe, and related industries in Yuchi Township to plan a series of activities, allowing everyone to experience Hakka and Thao cultures. In addition, the Yuchi Township Office has also planned a series of lifestyle events and small trips, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Yuchi Township's agrarian culture.

Event Dates: 10/21-22 (Sat-Sun) 09:00-16:00

Event Location: Xiangshan Visitor Center

 

 5. 2023 Sun Moon Lake Marathon

( 圖片來源: 日月潭環湖馬拉松 )

Event Date: Sunday, October 29, 2023
Time: 06:00 AM to 02:00 PM

Participant Categories:

- 42km Full Marathon Category: 1,000 participants (Time limit: 6 hours and 30 minutes).
- 29km Half Marathon Category: 3,000 participants (Time limit: 4 hours and 30 minutes).
- 6km Fun Walk Category: 1,000 participants (Time limit: 2 hours and 30 minutes).

Meeting Point: Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center, Yuchih Township, Nantou County, No. 599 Zhongshan Road.

Event Website: Sun Moon Lake Marathon Website

 

Conclusion

Based on my previous experiences attending events at Sun Moon Lake, the venues were always packed with people. Relying on public transportation was quite inconvenient, with long waits for buses. This year, I made the decisive choice to hire a private car, and the result was truly fantastic! No more waiting, and I could freely choose the attractions I wanted to visit. Exploring the major sights was stress-free, with excellent time management. I could leave my bags in the car, both big and small, and fully enjoy the event. For friends planning to visit Sun Moon Lake, I wholeheartedly recommend considering a private car rental. It significantly reduces the stress of traveling.

 

>> Click here to inquire about Sun Moon Lake car rental tours <<