[REVIEW] Sun Moon Lake - A Surreal Paradise on Earth in Taiwan

Where is Sun Moon Lake?

Sun Moon Lake (Hồ Nhật Nguyệt) is located in Nantou County, central Taiwan, approximately 250 km from Taipei. It is Taiwan's largest natural lake, surrounded by towering mountain ranges and lush forests, creating a stunning natural landscape.

• Location of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan: Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan.
• Size and Depth: The lake covers about 7.93 km² and has an average depth of 27 meters, with the deepest point reaching 30 meters.

Where is Sun Moon Lake? What is the address of Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan? (Image: @sunmoonlake.gov.tw)

The name "Sun Moon" comes from the unique shape of the lake, with the eastern part round like the sun and the western part crescent-shaped like the moon. The lake sits at an altitude of about 748 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush mountains and pristine forests, creating a peaceful and breathtaking natural landscape.

Sun Moon Lake is renowned for its surreal natural beauty, where the calm waters reflect the clear blue sky and the surrounding mountains, creating a scene that resembles a traditional Chinese ink painting. Particularly stunning during sunset, the lake glows with golden and orange hues, offering a romantic and mystical spectacle.

When is the best time to visit Sun Moon Lake?

Based on my travel experience in Taiwan, the best time to visit Sun Moon Lake is during the autumn. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities on the lake. However, every season offers unique attractions that are waiting to be explored.

Spring

In addition to autumn, the spring months from March to May are also an ideal time to visit Sun Moon Lake. Although it can still be a bit chilly, this is when the trees start to bloom, and the flowers burst into life, creating a vibrant and energizing atmosphere.

Visitors to Sun Moon Lake during the spring can also enjoy cherry blossom viewing and take a bike ride along the scenic route, which is often called the most beautiful cycling path in Taiwan.

Spring at Sun Moon Lake (Photo: @chanbrotherstravel)

Summer

From June to August, the weather is hot and often rainy. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is a perfect time to visit Sun Moon Lake, ideal for activities like walking or cycling around the lake. However, it’s important to pay attention to the weather and dress appropriately to avoid the heat.

Summer at Sun Moon Lake (Photo: @kaylalalung)

Autumn

From September to November, the autumn season transforms Sun Moon Lake into one of its most picturesque moments, with clear skies and water that reflects the brilliant golden sunlight. Particularly in early autumn, visitors can immerse themselves in the Thao people's harvest festivals, experiencing unique cultural traditions like divination and fortune-telling.

Autumn at Sun Moon Lake (Photo: @jinlun1314)

Winter

From December to February, Sun Moon Lake takes on a serene and refreshing beauty. However, the weather is much colder during this period. If you visit Sun Moon Lake at this time, don't miss out on popular festivals such as the Sun Moon Lake Festival, the fireworks festival, and the Bikeday event.

Winter at Sun Moon Lake (Photo: @birdyadventures)

A guide to traveling to Sun Moon Lake, Taichung

How to travel from Vietnam to Sun Moon Lake, Taichung

There are several airlines offering direct or connecting flights from Vietnam to Taichung, Taiwan, departing from Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), and Da Nang (DAD) airports. Flight durations generally range from 2.5 hours to 24 hours, depending on the number of stops and the flight itinerary.

To help plan your trip from Vietnam to Sun Moon Lake in Taichung, below is a guide on how to get there along with specific flight details.

*The flight prices listed are as of September 2024.Prices do not include taxes and fees and may vary depending on the travel date.

Getting from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake.

How to reach Sun Moon Lake and the travel route from Taichung to the lake

To answer the question of where Sun Moon Lake is located, this freshwater lake is situated in Nantou County, a district near Taichung City. The distance between the two places is around 100km. From Taichung's Thang Tuan Airport (RMQ), visitors can take various public transport options, such as taxis, buses, or tourist shuttles, to reach the lake.

• Taxi: The base fare for a taxi in Taichung is approximately 85 TWD (66,000 VND), with an additional charge of around 5 TWD (4,000 VND) for every 200 meters. Under normal traffic conditions, the journey from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake typically takes about 90 minutes.
• Bus: Bus tickets can be purchased at Taiwan Railways Taichung Station, HSR Taichung Station, or Taichung Gancheng Station for around 190 TWD (148,000 VND). Buses run every 30 minutes, and the travel time is between 90 and 120 minutes.
• Tourist Bus: Taiwan Tour Bus offers a package deal that covers the trip from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake and a full day of sightseeing there. This tour typically includes a guide, round-trip transport, and meals, with a cost of approximately 1,600 TWD (1,248,000 VND).

Exciting experiences at Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake in Taichung is a popular destination in Taiwan, attracting many tourists with its magnificent natural scenery and unique landscapes. Here are some exciting travel experiences that visitors can try at Sun Moon Lake:

Enjoy the lake views by boat

The most popular experience for visitors here is taking a boat tour on Sun Moon Lake, where you can enjoy a full panoramic view of the lake’s beauty. The perfect blend of the blue sky, crystal-clear waters, and the tranquil atmosphere will provide an unexpectedly peaceful experience for your soul.

Experience the boat tour at Sun Moon Lake

Walk or bike around the lake

The nearly 29km cycling route around Sun Moon Lake is often praised by cycling enthusiasts as one of the most beautiful trails in Taiwan. Thus, walking or cycling along this dedicated path offers a fantastic opportunity for visitors to enjoy the fresh air and slowly appreciate the surrounding natural beauty of Sun Moon Lake.

Cycling around the Sun Moon Lake trail (Photo: @nantougoody)

Sun Moon Lake Cable Car

From a different viewpoint than the boat tour, visitors can take the cable car and enjoy a panoramic view of the lake from a height of 150 meters. This cable car route also connects several major attractions around the lake, including the Ita Thao cultural village and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, allowing guests to easily combine multiple activities in one day.

Climbing Mount Shui Xian Da Shan

A unique experience for adventure lovers, climbing Mount Shui Xian Da Shan takes around 8 hours and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the full beauty of Sun Moon Lake from the base to the summit at over 2,000 meters.

Other attractions near Sun Moon Lake

Besides enjoying the scenic beauty of Sun Moon Lake, visitors can also explore other interesting tourist spots in Taiwan to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

• Address: No. 45, Jintian Lane, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
• Ticket Price: Approximately 850 TWD/adult; 750 TWD/child
• Opening Hours: 09:00 - 17:00

This is the largest cultural village in Taiwan, where visitors can learn about the indigenous peoples through exhibitions, games, and traditional performances. There is also an amusement park with thrilling rides, a flower garden, and countless photo spots for visitors to enjoy.

Wenwu Temple

• Address: No. 63, Zhongshan Rd., Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
• Ticket Price: Free
• Opening Hours: 08:00 - 18:00

Wenwu Temple is located on the northern shore, opposite Sun Moon Lake. This ancient temple honors two deities: Wenchang Wang (the god of literature and wisdom) and Guan Gong (the god of war and loyalty). Built in 1938, the temple features majestic architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Positioned in a prime location, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Inside the temple, the altar area is carefully arranged, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Wenwu Temple is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural and historical site where visitors can learn about Taiwanese beliefs and culture.

Miếu Văn Võ gần hồ Nhật Nguyệt

Huyền Trang Tự (Xuanzang Temple)

• Địa chỉ: No. 388, Zhongzheng Rd., Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
• Giá vé: Miễn phí
• Giờ mở cửa: 09h00 - 17h00

Huyền Trang Tự là ngôi chùa nổi tiếng tại Đài Loan, được xây dựng để tôn vinh Đại sư Huyền Trang, một nhà sư Phật giáo nổi tiếng trong lịch sử Trung Quốc, người đã có công dịch thuật kinh điển từ Ấn Độ sang tiếng Trung. Ngôi chùa tọa lạc trên một ngọn đồi cao nhìn xuống hồ Nhật Nguyệt, mang đến khung cảnh yên bình và thanh tịnh.Ngôi chùa có kiến trúc truyền thống với những bức tượng Phật và các di vật liên quan đến Đại sư Huyền Trang. Đặc biệt, chùa lưu giữ một phần xá lợi của Đại sư, thu hút nhiều Phật tử và du khách đến chiêm bái. Khuôn viên chùa được bao phủ bởi cây xanh, hoa cỏ, tạo nên một không gian tĩnh lặng, lý tưởng để thiền định và tìm hiểu về Phật giáo.

Longfeng Temple, also known as Dragon Phoenix Temple, is a small but revered temple located on the eastern shore of Sun Moon Lake. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, a prominent figure in Taiwanese religious practices. Additionally, the temple honors other deities such as the Laughing Buddha and Avalokitesvara. Despite its modest size compared to other temples, Longfeng Temple is cherished for its unique architecture, blending traditional and modern elements, and its intricately carved dragon and phoenix sculptures. Visitors often come here to seek tranquility in the serene atmosphere and lush surroundings.

• Address: No. 292, Zhongshan Rd., Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Longfeng Temple, also known as the Dragon Phoenix Temple, is a tranquil place of worship situated on the eastern side of Sun Moon Lake. It is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, a revered figure in Taiwanese spiritual practices. The temple also honors other deities such as the Laughing Buddha and Avalokitesvara. Its architecture is a beautiful fusion of traditional and modern design, featuring exquisite carvings of dragons and phoenixes. Though smaller than some of the larger temples, Longfeng Temple offers a peaceful escape, surrounded by lush nature, making it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and spiritual solace.

Dragon Phoenix Temple - Longfeng Temple (Photo: @ryan_evidence)

Shueishe Old Village

• Address: Shueishe Village, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: Open at your leisure

Shueishe Old Village, located right on the shores of Sun Moon Lake, serves as the main gateway to the area. This historic village is home to the Thao people, one of Taiwan's indigenous groups. It offers visitors a chance to experience local culture while also acting as a starting point for many tours around the lake. The village is famous for its quaint stone-paved streets, traditional wooden houses, and charming craft shops selling local souvenirs and handmade goods. Strolling through the old alleys, tourists can enjoy Taiwanese delicacies like bubble tea, dumplings, and pick up unique keepsakes.

What local delicacies should you try while visiting Sun Moon Lake?

Grilled Sun Moon Lake Fish

Fresh fish is caught from Sun Moon Lake and then grilled directly over charcoal. This dish typically retains its natural flavor, being savory and tender, and is served with a special dipping sauce.

• Estimated price: Around 235,000 - 400,000 VND per portion.

Oolong Tea Eggs

The eggs are boiled in Oolong tea infused with distinctive spices, resulting in a rich flavor with a slight bitterness from the tea and the creamy richness of the egg yolk.

• Estimated price: Around 15,000 - 30,000 VND per egg.

Steamed Bao Buns

Traditional steamed bao buns filled with pork, mushrooms, and vegetables, often served hot at lakeside eateries. The dough is soft and fluffy, while the filling is flavorful and satisfying.

• Estimated price: Around 40,000 - 80,000 VND per portion (2-3 pieces).

Taiwanese Dimsum Steamed Bao (Photo: @tw.food.addict)

Văn Võ Chicken Rice (Wenwu Chicken Rice)

This is a signature chicken rice dish, typically served with either steamed or grilled chicken. The rice is aromatic and sticky, paired with a special sauce and various fresh vegetables.

• Approximate price: 120,000 - 200,000 VND per portion.

Oolong Tea from Sun Moon Lake

A famous specialty that you must try when visiting Taiwan, especially around Sun Moon Lake where lush tea hills abound. Oolong tea has a light, slightly bitter taste and a fragrant aroma. It is typically enjoyed after meals or as a relaxing beverage.

• Reference price: Around 235,000 - 400,000 VND/100g (prices may vary depending on the type of tea).

The Oolong tea from Taiwan is incredibly famous (Photo: @teaterroir_com)

Useful travel tips for visiting Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan.

Sun Moon Lake is a beautiful destination, but travelers should also arm themselves with some handy tips to make their trip to the lake, and Taiwan in general, as smooth as possible.

- Hotel Booking: To make sightseeing more convenient, it is recommended to choose a hotel near Sun Moon Lake, such as:

• Sunmoonlake Sunflower House: Approximate price is 700,000 VND/room/night.
• Dreamy Nomads Hostel: Approximate price is 1,200,000 VND/room/night.
• Yue Lake Backpackers: Approximate price is 1,900,000 VND/room/night.

- Using the EasyCard: Instead of using cash, you can purchase the card at train stations or convenience stores. After recharging it, you can use it for public transport and shopping.

- Weather: Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip, especially during the rainy season. If there is heavy rainfall, some activities, such as the Sun Moon Lake boat tour, may be temporarily suspended.

- Food Safety: It is recommended to drink bottled water and choose restaurants that are busy to ensure food safety.

- Adhere to the regulations: Strictly follow the rules of the lake area, and refrain from swimming, diving, or taking photos without permission. It’s especially important to keep the surroundings clean, avoiding littering or throwing food into the lake for the fish.

- Book a comprehensive tour to Taiwan: If you lack experience with independent travel or obtaining a Taiwan visa, it is recommended to book an all-inclusive tour for the smoothest trip.

We hope that the practical tips shared here will ensure visitors have a meaningful experience at the picturesque Sun Moon Lake and throughout their travels in Taiwan.

Author: Dung

Image source: Dung & Internet