In short
- Integrated transport passes start around NT$680.
- Passes bundle the Taichung shuttle bus and local ferry rides.
- The bundle saves money compared to buying individual tickets.
In this article
Getting around Taiwan's largest alpine lake requires a mix of buses, ferries, and walking. If you plan to travel from Taichung and use the boats, a bundled pass reduces your overall transport costs.
What does the Sun Moon Lake Pass include?
Passes cover the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle and local transport options.
Integrated passes bundle your bus rides with local options. You use it for the bus route from Taichung HSR Station or Taichung TRA Station directly to Shuishe Visitor Center. It also typically covers the ferry system and the ropeway.
How much does the Sun Moon Lake Pass cost?
Integrated passes start around NT$680.
Prices vary depending on which transport options you bundle. The basic integrated pass costs around NT$680. You can buy these passes at the Taichung transit stations before boarding the shuttle bus.
How much do individual transport tickets cost?
A one-way bus costs NT$229, and a one-day ferry pass costs NT$300.
If you pay out of pocket, a single bus ticket from Taichung is NT$229. A 1-day ferry pass is NT$300. Bike rentals add another NT$150 to NT$300 or more. Paying individually quickly adds up.
Does the pass save you money?
Yes, buying the bundle costs less than paying for the bus and boat separately.
A single pass starting around NT$680 covers your main transport needs. The pass offers clear savings over individual tickets. It also saves you the hassle of carrying exact change for multiple transport modes.
Can I use an EasyCard or iPASS instead?
Yes, you can use these smart cards on the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle.
If you do not buy a pass, you can pay for the Taichung bus with an EasyCard or iPASS. However, this does not give you the bundled discount for ferries and the ropeway. You will need to buy separate tickets at the pier.
Where can I use the ferry pass?
The ferry loops between Shuishe, Xuanguang Temple, and Ita Thao piers.
Boats run a counter-clockwise loop between the three main piers. Ferries operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A 1-day pass allows unlimited rides for the day, letting you travel at your own pace.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need a pass to enter the lake area?
No, general entry to the scenic area is free. You only need to pay for transport like boats, shuttle buses, and ropeways.
Does the pass include bicycle rentals?
Some pass tiers may include bike rental vouchers, but standalone rentals cost NT$150 to NT$300+.
Is the Sun Moon Lake ropeway included?
Integrated passes often include the ropeway, connecting Ita Thao to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
