Things to Do in Sun Moon Lake. Activities, Experiences, Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

Lace up your boots and explore the trails.

Hiking and trekking routes with difficulty levels

Easy Trails

Hanbi Peninsula Trail (1.5 km, mostly flat). Shuishe Pier to Xiangshan Visitor Center Cycling Path (walkable, scenic).

Moderate Trails

Ci'en Pagoda Trail (500 steps, uphill climb with panoramic views). Maolan Mountain Trail (4.6 km loop, moderate incline through tea estates).

More Challenging

Shuishe Dashan Trail (5.6 km one way, strenuous with significant elevation gain to the highest peak).

Water sports and activities

Lake Cruises/Ferries: Scenic tours between Shuishe, Ita Thao, Xuanguang Temple piers.
Kayaking/SUP: Various rental shops or tour operators offer kayaking and Stand-up paddleboarding experiences.
Swimming: Generally prohibited, except for the annual Sun Moon Lake International Swimming Carnival (September).
Biking the Lake Path: Approximately 30 km (18.6 miles), with car-free sections, celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful. Electric bikes are available.

Adventure sports & adrenaline

A Stunning Alpine lake Ropeway: Aerial transport between Ita Thao and Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
Views from above are breathtaking.

Wildlife encounters & safaris

No "safaris" in the traditional sense.
Birdwatching is possible on various trails and along the lake's shores.
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife during nature walks.

Cycling routes & mountain biking

Round-the-Lake Cycling Path: Generally simple to medium, with some gentle inclines.
Trails in the surrounding hills offer more challenging routes for experienced riders.

Safety Alert: Swimming Restrictions

Swimming in Sun Moon Lake is generally prohibited for public safety. Adhere to regulations.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with the rich the legacy of the Sun Moon Lake region.

Workshops and classes

Thao Cultural Experiences (Ita Thao Village): Workshops available through local Thao community centers or guesthouses.
Offer insights into traditional crafts like weaving, making millet mochi, or learning about Thao music.
Community-based tourism: Staying in a Thao-run B&B in Ita Thao provides direct interaction and support.
Language learning: Learning basic Mandarin or a few easy greetings in Thao ("Aka" for hello) is appreciated.

Cultural performances and traditional ceremonies

Thao Traditional Performances

Regularly held at the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village and sometimes at specific venues in Ita Thao Village.

Performance Details

These encompass singing, dancing, and demonstrations of traditional hunting or weaving techniques.

Cultural Festivals and Events

Thao New Year (Lunar Calendar) is a significant cultural event. Sun Moon Lake International Fireworks & Music Festival (October/November).

Cultural Performances Tip

Check the schedule for Thao cultural performances in Ita Thao Village. This offers a genuine glimpse into their heritage.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation at Sun Moon Lake. The Lalu and Fleur de Chine Hotel offer luxurious spa and hot spring facilities.

Hot Springs Tip

If your hotel has hot spring access, take advantage of it, especially after cycling or hiking. The warm mineral water soothes tired muscles.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation at Sun Moon Lake.

Spa and wellness center recommendations

The Lalu: Luxurious spa facilities focus on tranquility and rejuvenation.
Fleur de Chine Hotel: Features hot spring facilities, both indoor and outdoor.
Many lodgings in the area utilize natural hot springs.
No dedicated yoga or meditation retreats exist directly on the lake, but the environment is conducive to one's own practice.

Traditional healing practices & Beach and pool clubs

Traditional Healing

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics are available in larger towns nearby, like Puli.

Beach and Pool Clubs

No beaches exist on Sun Moon Lake. Many hotels offer places to swim for guests to enjoy.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music & Theater

Limited live music venues. Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village offers daily performances. No nightclubs or dancing venues exist.

Bar Districts

No dedicated bar districts. Some restaurants and hotels in Shuishe and Ita Thao may serve alcohol.

Late-Night Options

Dining in Ita Thao Village's street food area can extend into the early evening. Most shops and attractions close by 8-9 PM.

Shopping & Markets

Find unique souvenirs and local products.

Traditional markets and bazaars

Ita Thao Shopping Street functions as a lively market during the day.
Offers a variety of aboriginal crafts, local snacks, and souvenirs.
Artisan workshops and crafts: Look for items made by the Thao people, including woven textiles, wooden sculptures.
Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited.

Ethical shopping guidelines

Support Local

Support local Thao artisans in Ita Thao Village by purchasing directly from their shops.

Sustainable Choices

Choose goods that are locally sourced and lessen your impact on the environment. Look for items made with sustainable materials.

Shipping & Customs

For larger purchases, inquire with vendors about international shipping. Be aware of home country's customs regulations.

Assam Tea

Grown in the A Romantic Getaway area.
Specifically renowned for its rich flavor.
Makes a popular souvenir.
Purchase directly from an area tea shop or plantation.

Millet & Pineapple Treats

Millet-based products: millet mochi, a chewy sweet snack, or millet wine.
Pineapple Cakes (鳳梨酥): A Taiwanese specialty, sweet and tart pastries.
Common and appreciated gifts.

Local Delights

Local Honey: From the surrounding mountains, often sold in small jars.
Handicrafts: Aboriginal crafts from Ita Thao Village, like woven bags or carved trinkets.
President Fish-related products: dried fish snacks or fish-shaped keychains.