The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway is a scenic cable car journey offering breathtaking aerial views of Sun Moon Lake's crystalline waters and the encompassing mountains. This experience is not just a commute but an adventure that takes you above the lush forest canopy. As you embark on this tranquil ride, you'll witness the region’s diverse ecology and landscapes that shift with the seasons, from blossoming springs to verdant summers, rich autumns, and serene winters. The Ropeway connects the Shuishe Pier area to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, an amusement park, and cultural center celebrating Taiwan's indigenous heritage. During the trip, you can enjoy a unique perspective of Taiwan's largest lake, taking in sites that might be missed from ground level. The journey is both an educational opportunity and a photographer's dream, so ensure your cameras are ready.
Embark on a peaceful boat tour of Sun Moon Lake, where the gentle waters reflect the surrounding hills and sky, creating a mirror-like effect that is truly mesmerizing. This excursion will take you across Taiwan's largest body of water, allowing you to soak up the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery that includes the famous Lalu Island. The lake is divided into two parts by the island: the Sun Lake, which is round, symbolizes the sun, while the crescent-shaped Moon Lake represents the moon. As you journey across the water, you'll learn about the area's rich history and cultural significance, particularly to the Thao indigenous people. You'll also have a chance to see an array of structures from the boat, such as the Ci'en Pagoda and the Xuanzang Temple, which add to the mystical ambiance of the tour.
Cycling around Sun Moon Lake is an incredibly rewarding activity for nature and fitness enthusiasts alike. The dedicated cycling path has been lauded as one of the most beautiful bike routes in the world and offers cyclists a unique way to experience the stunning landscape of Nantou County. The path takes you along the lake's shores, through lush forests, past charming villages, and occasionally to elevated viewpoints where the panoramic vistas are simply unforgettable. You don't have to be a professional cyclist to enjoy this activity, as the path is well-maintained and suitable for all levels of biking skills. Along the way, there are several spots to rest, snap photos, and even enjoy a picnic. If you didn't bring your own bike, there are numerous rental shops in the area, making this healthy and eco-friendly way to discover Sun Moon Lake's beauty accessible to everyone.
The Wenwu Temple stands majestically on the northern shore of Sun Moon Lake, offering a spiritually enlightening and culturally enriching experience. This historical temple was originally built to replace two submerged temples after the construction of a dam, and it pays homage to the First Ancestor Kaiji and the God of Literature. The architecture is richly decorated with intricate carvings and traditional Chinese motifs which captivate visitors upon arrival. On entering the temple, you are greeted by a large courtyard that houses a grand staircase flanked by two dragons—an impressive sight. The temple's position provides panoramic views of Sun Moon Lake, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a moment of peace and contemplation. Inside, the air is filled with the fragrance of incense and the murmur of prayers, providing a serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Experience the spiritual side of Sun Moon Lake by taking a hike to the tranquil Xuanguang Temple & Pier. Nestled on a hillside, the temple is a lesser-known gem that rewards visitors with peaceful ambiance and picturesque views of the lake. The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist monk Xuanzang whose journey to India to retrieve sacred texts was the inspiration for the famous Chinese novel 'Journey to the West.' The temple holds some of his relics, and the serene surroundings offer the perfect backdrop for meditation and reflection. The hike to the temple is quite pleasant, with stone steps cutting through lush greenery. Once at the temple, many visitors choose to relax and soak up the impressive views over tea or a vegetarian meal at the temple's restaurant. The Xuanguang Pier nearby also serves as a docking point for boat tours, making it a great starting point for further exploration.
Embark on a delightful tea tasting experience near Shuishe Pier, where you can savor the renowned Taiwanese teas grown in the mountainous regions surrounding Sun Moon Lake. Taiwan's central Nantou County is famous for its tea plantations, which produce exceptionally fragrant and smooth varieties such as Assam and Oolong. At a local teahouse, you will be introduced to the rich flavors and aromas of these teas, while learning about the meticulous process of tea cultivation, harvesting, and brewing that has been perfected over centuries. The tea tasting session usually includes several steeps of each tea, allowing you to appreciate the subtle changes in flavor with each subsequent cup. This activity is perfect for relaxing after a day of adventures, as the tea's warmth and the tranquil setting provide a soothing atmosphere to unwind and reflect on your experiences.
The Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village combines the thrills of an amusement park with the rich heritage of Taiwan's indigenous peoples. This expansive park is situated near the Shuishe Pier area and is accessible via the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway. The village showcases the history, traditions, and crafts of Taiwan's native tribes, with vibrant performances and exhibits. You can watch traditional dance shows, learn about the tribes' way of life, and even try your hand at some of the crafts. Besides its cultural offerings, the park also features a range of exciting rides, from roller coasters to water slides, making it an excellent destination for family fun. The park's blend of educational and entertainment experiences makes it a unique attraction that celebrates the island's original culture while ensuring visitors of all ages have an enjoyable time.
A visit to the local night market near Shuishe Pier is a must for anyone wanting to experience the vibrant nightlife and gastronomy of Taiwan. As the sun sets, the market comes alive with a plethora of stalls selling a wide variety of Taiwanese street food. Here, you can taste local delicacies such as stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and sweet taro balls, or indulge in freshly made bubble tea. The market also offers a variety of trinkets, souvenirs, and knick-knacks, making it an ideal place to find gifts or memorabilia. Wandering through the bustling lanes of the night market among the locals offers a glimpse into Taiwanese culture and is a perfect way to end an exciting day of sightseeing or outdoor activities. The friendly ambiance, coupled with the opportunity to sample different foods, provides an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience.
Take a relaxing stroll across the Shuishe Dam, a structure that not only plays a crucial role in water regulation for Taiwan but also offers scenic vistas of Sun Moon Lake and its natural beauty. The dam is easily accessible and provides a calm spot for walking, jogging, or simply taking in the scenery. The well-paved path atop the dam presents panoramic views of the azure-blue lake against the backdrop of the nearby mountains. Along with the photo opportunities, informational placards are installed at intervals, providing insights into the dam's history, the local ecosystem and the environmental efforts to preserve the region's beauty. The Shuishe Dam walk can be a serene break from the more active pursuits around Sun Moon Lake, allowing visitors to slow down and appreciate the serenity of this magnificent landscape at their leisure.
For those seeking an active and intimate interaction with the stunning Sun Moon Lake, kayaking offers an exciting perspective. Paddling on the placid blue-green waters of the lake allows for flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. Glide along the coastline or head out towards Lalu Island—the small, sacred island at the lake's center—and admire the views from a different vantage point. Kayaking provides not just a workout but an opportunity to connect with the tranquil environment. You can rent kayaks from various operators around the lake, and some offer guided tours that include lessons on paddling techniques and safety measures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, the experience of cutting through the glassy surface of Sun Moon Lake surrounded by lush mountains is both invigorating and meditative.
Beaches (2)
Religious Places (2)
Historical Places (18)
Museums (5)
National Parks (4)
Villages (1)
Mountains (1)
Island (2)
Dams (1)
