Post credits to: HHWT
You’ve probably never heard of Sun Moon Lake, but the name itself will give a tiny idea of what this place is. A stunning mountain backdrop, the clear turquoise waters, plenty of nature routes? Yes! But it’s also so much more. ;-)
We’re giving you the first dibs on this Muslim-friendly hidden gem located in Taichung, Taiwan! Prepare to be blown away by all that this Lake has to offer.
Getting There
Getting Around
An easy and tireless way to explore the Lake is by the lake bus which runs from the Shushie Visitor Centre. The bus goes all the way around the lake and covers most of the attractions in the area! We recommend getting the one-day pass with unlimited rides, and you can choose to pay by cash or Easycard (a reload-able card used around Taiwan).
If you prefer exploring the area on your own, cycling is the way to go! The Sun Moon Lake Circular Walk with its Bikeway is one of the most beautiful trails in the world. The best part is that it’s budget-friendly.
Check out Papago Rental Shop in Shuishe Village (151 Zhongshan Road). It would cost you about $100NT-$200NT, depending on the brand and how new it is. For those who do not know how to cycle, rent the tandem electric bicycle ($500NT) or scooters ($400NT)!
With plenty of hiking trails, the Lake is also perfect for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
Take your adventurous side a level higher by participating in one of the many Triathlons at the Lake! It’s a popular spot for Triathlon events as it’s the perfect location for swimming, cycling and running.
Getting around the Lake, while still enjoying the gorgeous scenery, would be a lot faster this way.
Must-visit Attractions
While going around this beautiful Lake, don’t forget to try their unique tea leaves egg! It’s made of black tea, shiitake mushroom and Chinese herbs
Xiangshan Visitor Center
Many tourists often skip Visitor Centres, but this is one place you’d want to visit when at Sun Moon Lake. It overlooks the Lake and the architecture was designed based on a theme of promoting the harmonious integration between human habitation and the natural world. There are two curved wings of the centre, giving it a really cool look!
Spice up your Instagram feed her as this place is the perfect spot for pictures due to its unique architecture! For a different experience, try visiting at night as the building’s lights create a totally different and breathtaking view.
Directions: Take Nan Tou Bus 6671 Sun Moon Lake – Shuili-Checheng or bus 6801 Sun Moon Lake- Sitou and stop at Xiangshan visitor center.
Lalu Island
Take a shuttle boat to this tiny but beautiful island in Sun Moon Lake. It used to be inhabited by the Thao people but the community has split due to the building of a dam in the 1930s. Although it is small and fragile for tourists to explore, you can still have a great view of it from the boat (or a drone)!
The boat runs from 9am to 5pm daily but may vary depending on the season. If you did not opt for a Sun Moon Lake Pass, purchase the boat tickets from any of the boat ticket booths near the Shuishe, Syuanguang or Ita Thao Pier.
Ita Thao
While you’re on the boat, make a stop at Ita Thao! There are a few of old aboriginal Thao people’s old villages at Ita Thao Pier. You can also find an abundance of street food, souvenir shops and restaurants to enjoy here
Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village
Getting to the village is an experience in itself! Take gondola cable car service from Ita Thao and enjoy a magnificent view of the Lake from the top.
Drop by Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village, a theme park introducing Taiwanese aboriginal culture and is famous based on its lush forest and beautiful European Garden. The best time to go is probably during the cherry blossom season. Check out the gorgeous flowers!
And you can’t possibly visit a theme park without trying out the rides, right? Try their dry rides or for a more exciting experience, some of their wet rides!
The best part is that there are Muslim-friendly restaurants at the park! Be sure to drop by Maya Restaurant, which offers Chinese and Western cuisine.
Tip: There’s also a prayer room and wudhu area in the park!
