The emerald waters of Sun Moon Lake in the Rearing Pond Village, within Nantou County, draws visitors from all over the world. Known to be the largest freshwater lake in Taiwan, its mysterious beauty, peacock park, butterfly park and more should be savored and experienced by the traveler visiting Taiwan.
Sun Moon Lake is an enchanting destination filled with majestic mountain and lake scenery, outdoor adventure, and a trip back in time. With so much to do here as well as relax in a magical setting, Sun Moon Lake should not be missed.
Attractions
Ride the cable cars up to the mountain for spectacular views of the emerald lake. Or visit the Ci En Pagoda, a memorial built by Chiang Kai-shek. Temples include the Wen Wu Temple, Xuanguang Temple and the Syuentzang Temple.
An aboriginal village, Idashao which is also called Dahuasho, can be toured. At the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, the children will enjoy amusement park rides. Recreations of the original village are part of the interesting and informative exhibits.
The amazing Peacock Garden is found near the Youth Activity Center. Be sure to bring your camera.
Alpine Beauty
Surrounded by mountains rising on all sides, Sun Moon Lake has an elevation of 760 meters. Mists and the ever changing mood of the lake bring enchanted views to the visitor; the beauty changes with the four seasons as well.
On the eastern side, the lake is shaped like the sun; the western side resembles a crescent moon. Together they create the beauty that is Sun Moon Lake.
Hiking
Seven miles of trails surround the lake and hikers can experience spectacular scenery. Photographers will be delighted with the unique photos that can be captured. Advanced hikers will enjoy the Mount Shuisho trail, an adventure that takes from seven to eight hours to finish.
Another trail, the Mount Maolan, begins close to the bus station and meanders past a tea plantation, eventually reaching the forecasting center for the weather.
Events
Fireworks and concerts are also attractions at the Lake. If you visit in autumn, there is more excitement happening; the Swimming Carnival of Sun Moon Lake takes place in the fall usually about the time of the Mid-Autumn Festival and is a race of 3 kilometers.
History
Originally known as Shuishalian, the lake's cultural diversity was formed by original Thao settlers during the Qing Dynasty; Aborigines and Han Chinese later joined the Thao and began the cultivation of the land. The resulting cultural diversity of the mix of peoples is apparent today.
Getting There
Located in Nantou, Central Taiwan, one can take a bus from the small town of Shueili right to the Lake area. The trip takes approximately 45 minutes.
Mandarin Airlines flights land at the nearby Taichung Airport.
Rail travel to Sun Moon Lake is accomplished by taking Taiwan High Speed Rail, getting off at the Taichung HSR Station and then transferring to a bus to the Lake. The Express train trip from Taipei to Taichung is approximately 50 minutes.