Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is a body of water in Yuchi Township in Taiwan, surrounded by forested hills and gentle mountains. The eastern section of the surface resembles the shape of the sun, while the western portion looks more like a crescent moon.

A Dutch missionary named Georgius Candidius recorded the existence of this body of water during the 17th century. Early English documents called it Lake Candidius after its first European chronicler.

The Thao community, an indigenous group, guards Lalu Island at the center as a sacred ancestral site. Visitors view the small islet from the shores and learn about the deep respect local people hold for this place.

Buses run regularly from Taichung High Speed Rail station to the shores of the water. Once there, travelers can rent boats or ride along the cycling trails that wind around the entire body of water.

Thousands of swimmers take part each year during the Moon Festival in a race covering three kilometers across the water. The event attracts both locals and guests from abroad who move through the cool waves.

Location: Yuchih Township

Elevation above the sea: 748 m

Website: https://sunmoonlake.gov.tw

GPS coordinates: 23.86667,120.91667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:29