Sun Moon Lake
September 2025
I have hazy memories of the beauty of Sun Moon Lake. I recall the moody day, the choppy boat ride, the wet hikes, huddling with friends in a temple to wait for the rain to pass. I remember just enough to know I needed to return.
The lake is a 90 minute van drive from Taichung through winding mountain roads. Situated 2500 feet above sea level, the lake’s east side is said to resemble the sun and its west the moon.
The day began with a stop at the Wen Wu Temple that overlooks the lake. The temple honors the two patron gods of civilian and military affairs. From there we moved on to the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway, a gondola that carries visitors high into the surrounding mountains. The views from the cars were breathtaking, the lake shifting from misty gray to shimmering blue as the clouds parted.
Next it was finally time to cross the lake by boat. At this point overcast clouds had returned, which allowed the lake’s deep emerald color to shine through with minimal interference from reflections. It was a photographer’s dream.
Back on land we biked about 20km of the shoreline, stopping at overlooks to absorb the serenity of the water.
My friend Box (set #5) informed us that the government has worked to re-establish the reputation of Sun Moon Lake. In the intervening years it became known as a hokey attraction with touts and scammers. Now the boats offer rides at a set rate, so there is no competition for your attention from guides begging for your dollar. The area’s natural beauty can therefore shine again without human meddling.
By the time we returned to the van, we had witnessed Sun Moon Lake in all its moods: Sunny, misty, dramatic, serene. This place had lingered in my memory for fifteen years not for its beauty, but for the calm that beauty instills. For a photographer, a traveler, or anyone seeking a pause from the rush of city life, the lake delivers a sense of clarity and serenity that remains long after leaving, no matter the ever-shifting weather.
Recipes: Reggie’s Portra, Classic Cuban Negative, Bright Summer
Taiwan Photosets:
Taipei Days
Taipei Museums
Taipei Nights
Jiufen/Shifen
Taichung
Sun Moon Lake
Food
Baseball
