Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Learn how to reach the lake, navigate the ferry system, and pack for the alpine climate.
Getting there
Options for reaching the lake and getting around.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Sun Moon Lake Route) from Taichung HSR Station or Taichung TRA Station directly to Shuishe Visitor Center. | 1.5 to 2 hours | NT$229 one-way | You can pay with an EasyCard/iPASS or buy a bundled Sun Moon Lake Pass for savings on round trips. |
| Boat: Hop-on hop-off passenger ferries operate a counter-clockwise loop between Shuishe, Xuanguang Temple, and Ita Thao piers. | 15-20 minutes between piers | NT$300 for a 1-day pass | Ferries generally run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; a 1-day pass allows unlimited rides for the day. |
| Car: Hire a private driver or take a taxi from Taichung. | 1 to 1.5 hours | NT$1,500 - NT$2,500 one-way | Ideal for groups with heavy luggage or those planning to visit surrounding Nantou sites like Cingjing Farm. |
| Walk: Rent a bicycle to ride the Xiangshan or Huanhu lakeside bikeways, or walk the numerous pedestrian trails. | Varies | NT$150 - NT$300+ for bike rental | The route between Shuishe and Xiangshan Visitor Center is flat, family-friendly, and offers stunning over-water boardwalks. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Sun Moon Lake is accessible year-round. October and November are the best months for festivals and clear skies. February to April brings beautiful cherry blossoms. Swimming is banned year-round, except for one day during the September Swimming Carnival.
What to bring
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The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus connects Taichung to the lake in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Use an EasyCard or iPASS to pay your fare easily.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for a successful visit.
A full day utilizing the ferry to see the main sights.
- Arrive at Shuishe
Take the bus from Taichung and arrive at Shuishe Visitor Center.
- Ferry to Xuanguang Temple
Ride the boat, visit the temple, and try the famous tea eggs.
- Ferry to Ita Thao
Head to the cultural hub for an aboriginal street food lunch.
- Sun Moon Lake Ropeway
Take the cable car for aerial views of the mountains.
- Return to Shuishe
Take the ferry back and rent a bike for a quick ride to Xiangshan.
Practical rules
Remember that swimming in the lake is strictly prohibited. You cannot step foot on Lalu Island. Fishing is generally not allowed. Do not fly drones without official prior authorization.
When cycling across the Shuishe Dam wooden section, you must dismount and push your bicycle for safety. Follow these rules to protect the local ecosystem and respect local culture.
Easiest way to do it
1 day tour Sun Moon Lake from Taichung
9 h 4.6 (7)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel/train station pick up
- Fuel surcharge
- Insurance
From$165per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How many days should I spend in Sun Moon Lake?
One full day is enough to take the ferry, ride the ropeway, and do a short bike ride. Staying overnight lets you enjoy quiet mornings before the tour buses arrive.
Are there luggage lockers at Sun Moon Lake?
Yes. You can find lockers near the Shuishe Visitor Center. Leave your heavy bags there before renting a bike or boarding a ferry.
What is there to eat at Sun Moon Lake?
Head to Ita Thao Shopping Street. You will find aboriginal delicacies like wild boar sausages, bamboo rice, and local Assam black tea.