CYCLING AROUND THE INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL SUN MOON LAKE IN TAIWAN
This sparkling body of water lies in the central highlands of Nantou County, 748 meters above sea level, surrounded by misty mountain peaks and dotted with temples, pagodas, and lush forests. For cyclists, it’s not just a pretty spot on the map—it’s a destination with a heart and soul for two wheels.
A real-life cycling paradise
The lake gets its name from its shape: one side resembles a sun, the other a crescent moon. But it’s what lies along its shores that makes it unforgettable. In 2012, CNN ranked the Sun Moon Lake bike route among the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Bike Trails in the World” — and it’s not hard to see why. The 29-kilometer loop offers smooth, well-maintained paths, suspension bridges, waterfront promenades, and forest trails, all in a landscape that offers peace, action, and cinematic scenes. You don’t have to be a seasoned cyclist to enjoy it. At both major piers—Shuishe and Ita Thao—you can rent bikes, including road bikes, hybrid bikes, and e-bikes for a more leisurely ride. The route can be completed in three to four hours, but most visitors take their time and stop to admire the temples, eat local delicacies, or simply enjoy the view.
From Shuishe, the largest village and main transportation hub, you can follow the lake counterclockwise. The Shuishe section itself is a gentle warm-up—wide lanes with open views of the water and the Ci’en Pagoda in the distance. Early risers may notice the iconic mist of the lake floating like silk over the surface, a natural gift that evaporates in the morning sun. Further on is the Xiangshan Bikeway, a 400-meter stretch that runs over the water via an elegant elevated bridge. Here, the emerald green water reflects the cyclists as they glide so close to the edge of the lake that it almost seems as if they are floating. Nearby is the Xiangshan Visitor Center, a striking example of contemporary architecture designed by architect Norihiko Dan. Enjoying a coffee on one of the panoramic decks here is a magical experience.
The route winds past tea plantations and through shady valleys to the Ita Thao region, home to the Thao people, one of Taiwan’s smallest and oldest indigenous groups. Their village, once an isolated settlement, now welcomes visitors with a lively market, cultural performances, and a waterfront promenade lined with stalls selling everything from bamboo rice to wild boar skewers. This is a good place to rest, soak up the local traditions, and sample a cup of the island’s famous mountain tea. A short detour from Ita Thao leads to the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway, a cable car that connects the lake with the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. Those looking for a mix of cultural immersion and amusement park thrills can easily combine both.
As you continue cycling here, the route begins to climb slightly. The Songbolun section offers beautiful views of the western shore of the lake and passes the grand Wenwu Temple—an architectural masterpiece with red pillars, wide steps, and statues of lions. The temple is dedicated to Confucius and Guan Gong, who symbolize wisdom and martial prowess. The climb to the temple is steep, but the view alone is worth the effort.
Strategically placed rest areas with water, toilets, and shaded spots are located throughout the loop. Some even offer charging points for e-bikes and picnic areas with beautiful views of the lake. For cyclists with more stamina, there is the longer Tannan Route (about 55 kilometers), which takes the tour further away from the lake to small villages such as Toushe and Minhe. These sections are less busy, with rolling farmland and rice fields surrounded by wooded hills. Here, the peaceful rural charm of Taiwan takes center stage.
Souvenir for life
Completing the entire loop around the lake is not just a bucket list item—it’s a souvenir for life. At various rental companies, including the well-known Giant branch in Shuishe, cyclists can show their GPS logs or route stamps and receive a “cycling certificate,” a small but meaningful proof of their adventure.
Sun Moon Lake bike route in the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Bike Trails in the World”
Of course, road bikes aren’t the only way to experience Sun Moon Lake. The area is also a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with a variety of trails offering forest immersion and panoramic viewpoints. The Hanbi Trail and Maolan Trail along the lake are ideal for leisurely walks/rides, winding through camphor forests and past picturesque viewpoints. The more challenging Shuishe Great Mountain Trail, which rises to 2,059 meters, rewards you with amazing views of a landscape that we don’t know in Europe. A must-see near the Xuanguang Pier is the Xuanzang Temple, dedicated to the Tang Dynasty monk who inspired the legendary “Journey to the West.”
Evenings at Sun Moon Lake are just as magical as the mornings. As dusk falls, the lake reflects the changing sky and lanterns begin to glow at the Ita Thao night market. Travelers gather to watch the sunset from observation decks or temple terraces, and the hum of scooters gives way to birdsong. With its harmonious blend of accessibility, cultural depth, and natural elegance, Sun Moon Lake is more than a destination—it’s a feeling. Whether you’re traveling alone in search of quiet roads or with your family looking for an active escape, cycling here offers a rare kind of journey: one that stays with you long after the wheels have stopped turning.
Taiwan – A cyclist’s paradise beyond Sun Moon Lake
While Sun Moon Lake is undoubtedly Taiwan’s most iconic cycling destination, the island as a whole is a hidden gem for two-wheeled travel. Taiwan has a remarkably bike-friendly infrastructure, with extensive networks of bike paths, well-maintained roads, and a culture that warmly welcomes cycling tourism.
For those looking for a more ambitious challenge, Taiwan Cycling Route No. 1 (環島1號線) offers the ultimate adventure: a 939.5-kilometer loop that circles the entire island. Officially launched in December 2015 to promote recreational cycling, the route is clearly marked with brown signs bearing the Taiwan Tourism logo and can be ridden clockwise or counterclockwise. Along the way, cyclists encounter Taiwan’s amazing diversity – from dramatic coastlines and rice paddies to bustling urban centers and quiet rural towns.
Whether you are a casual cyclist or an endurance enthusiast, Route No. 1 offers an immersive way to discover the island’s landscapes and cultures at your own pace. A comprehensive English-language cycling guide with maps, tips, and route suggestions is available online via Taiwan’s official tourism website.
"A fantastic 939.5-kilometer cycling route that circles the entire island.”
Travel information Sun Moon Lake:
· Accessibility: Sun Moon Lake can be reached by bus or car from Taichung City in western Taiwan (approximately 1.5 hours). Taiwan Tourist Shuttle buses run regularly from Taichung High-Speed Rail Station.
· Best time to visit: March to May and October to December offer the most pleasant weather. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cool and foggy.
· Where to stay: Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts on the lake to more budget-friendly guesthouses and mountain lodges. While famous hotels such as Fleur de Chine Hotel or The Lalu offer the most luxury, smaller inns in Ita Thao provide the best cultural experiences.
· Insider tip: Try the famous “President Fish” (a local carp dish) and, if timing allows, time your trip to coincide with the Sun Moon Lake International Fireworks and Music Festival held every fall.
Cycling events:
L´Étape Sun Moon Lake
Event date: October 18, 2025
https://letapesunmoonlake.com/event-info
Cycling enthusiasts looking for a real competitive challenge can take part in L’Étape Sun Moon Lake, a prestigious cycling event that brings the spirit of the great professional races to Taiwan. This event offers riders the chance to experience professional-level racing conditions amid the beautiful backdrop of Sun Moon Lake. For more information, visit the official website: L’Étape Sun Moon Lake.
More info about Taiwan:
TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION
c/o Taipei Tourism Office
Bleichstrasse 52
60313 Frankfurt
Tel. +49 (0)69-610743
E-Mail info@taiwantourismus.de
https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/
