Journey to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan: 2025 Travel Guide

Nestled in the mountainous heart of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake (日月潭) stands as one of the island’s most iconic natural attractions. As Taiwan’s largest body of water, this famous lake has captivated visitors for generations with its serene beauty, cultural significance, and the mist-shrouded mountains that embrace its shores. In early 2025, I went on a journey from the bustling Taipei to this tranquil oasis, discovering along the way why Sun Moon Lake is still a must-visit destination for Taiwan. This is especially true for travelers seeking to experience the country beyond its urban big cities.

Sun Moon Lake is named for its one-of-a-kind shape—the eastern side resembles a sun while the western side evokes a crescent moon—this breathtaking lake is not just a scenic wonder but also a living cultural landscape. Home to the Thao indigenous people, one of Taiwan’s smallest recognized aboriginal tribes, the area offers visitors a rare glimpse into Taiwan’s indigenous culture alongside natural beauty of the lake.

This complete guide includes my personal experience traveling from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake, offering practical advice on transportation options, accommodation choices, the best activities and viewpoints, culinary experiences, and tips for making the most of your visit whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay. From peaceful temples to exhilarating bike rides and boat tours, Sun Moon Lake offers something new for every traveler.

Getting There: Taipei – Sun Moon Lake

Option 1: By Train and Car (Our Choice!)

We took the THSR (bullet train) from Taipei to Taichung (about 1 hour), then rented a car for the scenic 2-hour drive to Sun Moon Lake. The car road winds through lush mountains, offering fantastic views along the way.

🚆 Pro Tip: If you have less time, consider booking a Sun Moon Lake bus directly from Taichung HSR Station.

For our journey, we opted for a combination of train and rental car, which proved to be both efficient and flexible. Having a rental car is invaluable- especially if you want to visit natural sceneries around the country!

From Taipei Main Station, we took the high-speed rail (HSR) to Taichung, a journey of approximately 50 minutes that costs around NT$700 (US$23). The trains are clean, on-time, and has comfortable seating with scenic views of Taiwan’s western corridor.

After our arrival at Taichung HSR Station, we headed to the rental car counters located nearby. Several companies operate here, including international brands and local operators. It cost around US$63 per day for a compact car.

The rental process was straightforward, requiring only an international driving permit, passport, and credit card. From Taichung, we drove approximately 2 hours to reach Sun Moon Lake, following well-marked highways before ascending into the mountains on winding but well-maintained roads.

The drive itself became part of the adventure, with really curving roads along the mountains. Though thrilling, the drive also had stunning views as we climbed higher and into long mountain tunnels. If you’re comfortable driving on the right side of the road (Taiwan follows the same driving orientation as the United States), renting a car provides unmatched flexibility for exploring the lake and its surroundings.

Option 2: By Public Transportation

If you prefer not to drive, there are several public transportation options:

1. HSR to Taichung + Bus: Take the High-speed Rail train (HSR) to Taichung, then transfer to the Sun Moon Lake route (6670 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle). This direct bus departs from the Taichung HSR station (floor 1F exit 5) and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Shuishe Visitor Center, the main access point to Sun Moon Lake.
2. Train to Taichung + Bus: A more economical option is taking the regular TRA train to Taichung Station, then the Nantou Bus from Taichung Rail Station to Sun Moon Lake. This route takes longer (approximately 3-4 hours total) but costs less.
3. Bus 1833 from Taipei: The 1833 bus departs from Taipei Main Station and goes straight to Sun Moon Lake. The trip takes around 3.5 hours to reach Shuishe Village.
4. Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer day trips from Taipei, often combining Sun Moon Lake with other attractions like Cingjing Farm. While convenient, these tours typically allow less time at each location.

Travel Tips 💡

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures and clear skies. During spring, you might catch cherry blossoms around the lake.
• Duration: While Sun Moon Lake can technically be visited as a day trip from Taipei, I highly recommend staying at least one night to fully experience the area without rushing.
• Round Trip Planning: If using public transportation, purchase round trip tickets in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability.
• Road Conditions: The mountain roads can be winding and occasionally foggy. If driving, allow extra time and drive cautiously, especially in poor weather conditions.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options 🛏️

Sun Moon Lake offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts overlooking the water to charming family-run bed and breakfasts tucked into the surrounding hills.

My Experience: Sunlake Hotel (日潭栈民宿)

We stayed at Sunlake Hotel, a charming B&B located in the Ita Thao Village. This family-operated establishment offers a personal touch that larger hotels simply can’t match. The husband and wife owners maintain the property beautifully and prepare breakfast themselves each morning.

Although my room did not offer a lake view, it had comfortable bedding and super clean & modern bathroom facilities.

What made this accommodation special was the genuine hospitality. The owners were eager to share their knowledge of the area, recommending lesser-known hiking trails and the best times to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds. Breakfast featured a Western or Taiwanese choice- you get to choose between a traditional congee meal or a plate of shakshuka! They also prepared steaming hot soy milk, coffee, and tea as the drink choices.

📍 Why we loved it:

• Walking distance to Ita Thao (the main street is full of street food stalls)
• Personalized service from the owners
• Comfortable, clean, and modern interior

Other Accommodation Options

In Shuishe Village (水社):

• The Lalu ($$$): The area’s premier luxury hotel, offering spectacular lake views and world-class amenities.
• Sun Moon Inn 日月潭山慕藝旅: A mid-range option with good facilities and convenient location near the visitor center. Exceptional service and breakfast.
• Shuishe Youth Activity Center: Budget-friendly accommodation with private rooms and dormitory options.

In Ita Thao (伊達邵):

• Lakeshore Hotel: Modern rooms with lake views and easy access to the Ita Thao pier and food street.
• Ming Yue Bed and Breakfast: A cozy option with comfortable rooms and personalized service.
• Richforest Hotel: Log-cabin like vibes with stunning lake views. Equipped with an onsen.

In Xuanguang (玄光):

• Xuanguang Temple Hostel: Simple but clean accommodation near the temple, with stunning sunrise views.

Accommodation Tips 💡

• Book in Advance: Especially during weekends, holidays, and cherry blossom season (March-April), accommodations fill up quickly. We researched a month in advanced, and some places were already booked up!
• Location Considerations: Shuishe is the main village with more services but can be busier. Ita Thao offers better access to indigenous culture and food options. Xuanguang is quieter but has fewer amenities.
• Room Views: Lakeside rooms command premium prices but offer unforgettable sunrise views. If budget is a concern, consider a room with partial lake views.

Exploring Sun Moon Lake: Main Villages and Attractions

Sun Moon Lake is ringed by several distinct villages, each offering a different experience. The three main villages—Shuishe, Ita Thao, and Xuanguang—serve as the primary access points to the lake and its attractions.

Shuishe Village

As the main tourist center and transportation hub, Shuishe offers the widest range of amenities, including the visitor center, bike rental shops, and numerous restaurants. Here you’ll find:

• Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center: A gasp-worthy architectural wonder designed by Japanese architect Norihiko Dan. Other than giving travel information for tourists, the visitor center also at times hold exhibitions. Don’t forget to check out panoramic views from its rooftop.
• Wenwu Temple: Just north of Shuishe, this impressive temple honors Confucius, Guan Gong, and the God of Literature. Its ornately classic architecture and elevated position provide some of the best views of the lake.
• Xiangshan Visitor Center: Another architectural highlight with its distinctive wooden design resembling a boat, offering exhibition spaces and a café with lake views.

​Most tourists stay in the Shuishe Village, so expect larger crowds if you are heading to this area.

Ita Thao Village

As the center of indigenous culture at Sun Moon Lake, Ita Thao was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip. This vibrant village is home to the Thao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes and offers an authentic glimpse into aboriginal culture.

The main street of Ita Thao is lined with food stalls offering indigenous foods and local specialties- definitely a good idea for a first-time visit. During our evening exploration, we tried wild boar sausage, filled chicken wings, and boar stir fry—all delicious and representative of the unique culinary traditions of the area.

Key attractions in and around Ita Thao include:

• Ita Thao Pier Plaza: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and boat rental services. The plaza serves as the heart of the village and offers excellent sunset views.
• Ropeway Station: The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway connects Ita Thao with the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, offering spectacular aerial views of the lake and surrounding mountains. While we found it too crowded during our visit and opted to stay on our bike, it remains a popular attraction.
• Thao Cultural Center: A small but informative museum showcasing the history, traditions, and crafts of the Thao people.

Xuanguang Temple Area

Located on the eastern shore of the lake, Xuanguang Temple is accessible by boat or a scenic hike from Ita Thao. This area is significantly quieter than the main villages and offers:

• Xuanguang Temple: A peaceful sanctuary with beautiful lake views and spiritual significance.
• Ci’en Pagoda: Standing majestically on a hilltop, this 43-meter-tall pagoda was built by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother. The climb to reach it is challenging but rewarded with panoramic vistas that rank among the lake’s best views.

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

Though we didn’t visit during our trip due to time constraints, the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village is a significant attraction near Sun Moon Lake. This combined theme park and cultural center showcases the traditions of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes through exhibitions, performances, and recreated traditional villages. It’s connected to Ita Thao by the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway and makes for a good place to learn about Taiwan’s diverse indigenous cultures if you have an extra day.

Activities: Making the Most of Your Visit

Cycling Around the Lake

One of the absolute highlights of our Sun Moon Lake experience was renting a motorized tandem bike to explore the area. The lake is surrounded by a scenic 33-kilometer cycling route considered one of the most beautiful in the world, but the mountainous terrain can be challenging.

We rented our motorized tandem bike from a shop near Ita Thao and set off to visit Xuanguang Temple and Ci’en Pagoda. The electric assistance proved invaluable on the uphill sections, allowing us to enjoy the journey without exhaustion. The bike rental cost approximately NTD 500 for a half-day rental, and the experience was worth every penny.

Pro Tip 💡: Bring cash! You might also need to leave a deposit of NTD 1,000 depending on the place.

The route took us along the lake’s shore, through tunnels cut into the mountainside, and past numerous scenic viewpoints. Many sections of the path are separated from car traffic, making for a safe and enjoyable ride.

Boat Rides

Boat rides offer the most scenic view on Sun Moon Lake’s beauty. Several types of services operate on the lake:

• Ferry Services: Regular ferries connect the three main piers—Shuishe, Ita Thao, and Xuanguang. These practical services also serve as scenic cruises, with one-day passes available for unlimited rides. Cost is around 100 NTD, you might have to line up for a ticket depending on arrival time.
• Guided Tour Boats: These include narration about the lake’s history and legends, offering a more educational experience.
• Private Boat Rentals: For a more exclusive experience, private boats can be chartered from the main piers.

During peak seasons, arrive early to avoid long queues for boat rides. The ferries operate throughout the day, with the first departures around 9 AM and the last returns before sunset.

Hiking Trails 🥾

For nature enthusiasts, several hiking trails offer different perspectives of the lake:

• Ci’en Pagoda Trail: A moderate hike leading to the pagoda with various viewpoints along the way.
• Shuishe Great Mountain Trail: A more challenging route offering panoramic vistas of the entire lake basin.
• Peacock Garden Trail: An easier option with beautiful flowers and bird-watching opportunities.

For any hiking, bring appropriate footwear, water, and sun protection. Many trails have limited shade 🌞

Cable Car 🚠

The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway connects Ita Thao with the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, offering a 1.8-kilometer aerial journey with breathtaking views. Though we skipped this due to crowds, off-peak visitors report it as a must-do experience.

The cable car operates from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and later on weekends, with round-trip tickets costing approximately NT$380.

Culinary Experiences: What to Eat 🍽️

The Sun Moon Lake area offers diverse dining experiences, from aboriginal specialties to contemporary Taiwanese cuisine.

Must-Try Indigenous Foods

At Ita Thao’s food street, we discovered a dizzying amount of indigenous delicacies!

• Wild Boar: Served in various forms from sausages to stir-fries, the wild boar dishes showcase the hunting traditions of indigenous tribes.
• Bamboo Tube Rice: Rice mixed with ingredients like mushrooms and pork, then cooked in bamboo sections over fire.
• Betel Flower Stir Fry: A unique dish featuring the buds of the betel plant, which imparts a distinct flavor when stir-fried.
• Fried Quail: Small but flavorful birds, typically marinated before being crispy fried.
• Wild boar sausage on a stick: Juicy and smoky- and has a snap!

🍦 Bonus: Don’t miss the milk tea ice cream and bubble tea made with the famous Ruby No. 18 black tea! We enjoyed ours at Tea18.

If you are interested in reading more about tea, check out my post about Uji, Japan and on Japanese tea ceremonies!

Local Specialties

Beyond indigenous cuisine, the area offers several notable specialties:

• Filled chicken wings: Stuffed with sticky rice and local spices.
• Black Tea: Sun Moon Lake is famous for its tea production, particularly its distinctive Ruby No 18 black tea. Several tea shops offer tastings and educational experiences.
• Tea Eggs (阿婆茶葉蛋): Eggs simmered in a spiced tea broth, creating a marbled pattern and infusing the eggs with flavor. They are even available at all minimarts!
• Fresh Mountain Vegetables: Many restaurants serve local vegetables prepared simply to showcase their freshness.

Dining Recommendations

• Ita Thao Food Street: The most vibrant dining area, offering street food stalls and casual restaurants serving indigenous foods.
• Lealea Garden Hotel Restaurant: Upscale dining with lake views and contemporary interpretations of Taiwanese classics.
• Hu Yue Restaurant: In Shuishe, this establishment is known for its lake fish dishes.
• Grandma’s Tea Restaurant: Authentic local cuisine served in a homey atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visitors ✨

Best Time to Visit ⏱️

• Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms make this a popular season. The area around the lake becomes particularly picturesque when the cherry trees bloom.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with occasional rain showers. This is peak domestic tourism season, so expect crowds.
• Autumn (September-November): Perhaps the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The autumn foliage adds another dimension of beauty.
• Winter (December-February): Cooler temperatures (around 10-15°C) but fewer crowds. Some mornings feature magical mist rising from the lake.

​We visited in early March, and the blooming cherry blossoms were unforgettably beautiful. 

Speaking of the country of cherry blossoms, would you like to hike in the beautiful Jogasaki Coast?

Cultural Etiquette

• Respect for Indigenous Culture: When visiting indigenous areas or attending cultural performances, show appropriate respect. Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially elders.
• Temple Visits: Dress modestly when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees. Follow any specific instructions posted at religious sites.
• Environmental Awareness: Help preserve the natural beauty by not littering and staying on marked trails.

What to Pack 🧳

These are some necessary things to pack- even more listed here!

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring the villages and hiking trails.
• Sun Protection: The lake’s high elevation means stronger UV exposure. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Light Rain Jacket: Weather in the mountains can change quickly, even during dry seasons.
• Insect Repellent: Particularly important during summer months! Nothing ruins the mood faster than a bunch of insects..
• Cash: While major hotels and some restaurants accept credit cards, smaller establishments and street vendors often require cash.

Safety Considerations

• Water Safety: If swimming in designated areas, be aware that the lake can be deep with sometimes unpredictable currents.
• Mountain Roads: Whether driving or cycling, exercise caution on the winding mountain roads, especially in poor weather.
• Weather Awareness: Check forecasts before planning outdoor activities, as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Recommended Itineraries

Here are the itineraries I would recommend for you if you are going to Sun Moon Lake for 1, 2, or 3 days. These itineraries will maximize what you can see in the time you have!

One-Day Itinerary

While I recommend staying overnight, here’s how to maximize a day trip:

• Morning: Arrive at Shuishe, visit the Visitor Center and Wenwu Temple
• Midday: Take a boat to Ita Thao, have lunch featuring indigenous foods. Don’t forget to try the local street food! The boar sausage is a must. 🐗
• Afternoon: Explore the lake shore on the Circular Walkway, then boat to Xuanguang Temple
• Evening: Return to Shuishe for departure

Two-Day Itinerary (My Recommendation)

There are definitely some great places you should hit up in a 2-day trip!

Day 1:

• Arrive in Shuishe by midday
• Visit Wenwu Temple
• Ride the boat to Ita Thao, check into accommodation
• Explore Ita Thao Village, go paddle boarding in Sun Moon Lake!
• Enjoy street food or indigenous restaurants for dinner

Day 2:

• Rent motorized bikes for a relaxed morning ride to Ci’en Pagoda, Xuan Zang Temple, and Xuanguang Temple
• Return to Ita Thao for lunch
• Afternoon boat cruise or cable car ride (Sun Moon Lake Ropeway). Bonus: look for the Nine Frogs Stack!
• Depart in the late afternoon

Three-Day Extended Stay

Day 1: Same as two-day itinerary

Day 2:

• Rent a motorized bike
• Start biking the lake circuit by bike, head to the Xiangshan Visitor Center if you are up for it
• Visit Ci’en Pagoda, Xuan Zang Temple and Xuanguang Temple to enjoy the views along the way
• Bike back and enjoy a sunset boat ride or a nice evening by the pier

Day 3:

• Sunrise view at Jinlongshan Lookout
• Tea plantation tour at Antique Assam Tea Farm
• Relaxed final evening at the lake

Conclusion

Our journey from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake stands as one of my most memorable Taiwan experiences. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activities creates a destination that truly satisfies all types of travelers. While Taiwan’s urban centers rightfully receive much attention, Sun Moon Lake offers a glimpse into a different Taiwan—one straight out of the storybooks. It’s filled with mountain mists, indigenous traditions, and serene natural landscapes.

It’s amazing whether you’re cycling along the shore road, sampling indigenous delicacies, or simply watching the shimmering light play across the water’s surface. Sun Moon Lake gets you to slow down and appreciate the subtler rhythms of life. These days, places like Sun Moon Lake—where nature and culture exist in harmony—become increasingly precious.

For those planning a visit to Taiwan, I cannot recommend Sun Moon Lake highly enough. Allow yourself the time to truly experience this special place rather than rushing through it.

Read more on interesting travel destinations around the world! Thailand, Japan, France– so many more places to go 💕

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