Sun Moon Lake which was originally known as ‘Where water and sand meet’ is considered one of the most popular holiday destinations for couples in Taiwan. The tranquil waters of Taiwan’s largest natural lake surrounded by the soaring peaks of the lush, green mountains give an air of romance through every season of the year. Even the name is drawn from nature reflecting the Eastern part of the lake rounded like the sun, with Western side shaped like a crescent moon.

Highly recommended is a visit to Sun Moon Village (Idashao) populated by around 400 of the original inhabitants, the Thao People. Their way of life has changed little over the years and their wooden sculptures and handcrafts are highly sought after as souvenirs. The village is renowned for its mouth watering traditional fresh seafood dishes which can be eaten either in the village or a secluded dinner for two on the Shuishe pier overlooking the lake.

Flowing mists at Sun Moon Lake

sunset on Sun Moon Lake

In the centre of Sun Moon Lake is the serenely beautiful island of Lalu, accessible only to local Thao villagers as a sacred place to worship their ancestors. You can take a ferry that passes by right by the island and it’s said the aura of mysticism surrounding the island can be felt even from a distance.

Another must see is the impressive Wenwu Temple, a place where people come from around the world to worship Confucius (the god of letters) and the martial gods Guangong and Yuehfei.　Locals and visitors alike insist on having their photo taken in front of the majestic temple lions, in fact Taiwan’s largest at 7.8 metres as they stand guard in front of Wenwu temple.

Sun Moon Lake has no less than seven enchanting walks including the Hanbi Trail, the Dachuhu Lake Trail, and the Tzuen Pagoda Trail.　What could be more romantic than a night at the former Hanbi Palace, now the Lalu Hotel, with spectacular views over Sun Moon Lake and a walk, hand in hand down the meandering red brick Hanbi trail to the water’s edge?

Lalu Resort

Butterfly

A visit to the Peacock Garden has you get up close and personal with many of the world’s most colourful birds as you walk amongst the more than 200 peacocks and other native birds that wander freely though the gardens. Or set your heart aflutter at the Butterfly Field House near Sun Moon Village and walk amidst some of the most vibrantly coloured tropical butterflies found anywhere in the world.

The magnificent Tzuen Ta Pagoda which stands on the top of the Mt. Sabalan is a definite must see. The walk to the pagoda boasts extraordinary views over the lake with dancing fireflies adding a truly romantic touch on balmy summer nights.

Nearby attractions such as Puli Wineries, Snake Kiln Ceramics and the Tea Museum are definitely worth a visit.