Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake sits at an altitude of 762m in the mountains of Nantou County, in central Taiwan. This lake is famous for its clear, sparkling blue water set against a picturesque mountain backdrop. It is the largest lake in Taiwan and a traditional spot for newlywed couples to take their honeymoon. It has also been a center of aboriginal life for thousands of years, with aboriginal people involved in its tourist industry since the 1930s.

Sun Moon Lake covers an area of 7.7 square kilometers and has an average water depth of 40 meters. There is a legend about the origin and name of this lake. According to legend, a white deer contributed to the discovery of the lake. Three hundred years ago, a group of peasants were hunting when they discovered a large white deer running to the northwest. They followed this amazing creature for three days and nights, but it finally disappeared in the forest. On the fourth day, after they had moved through the forest, they came upon an impressive vista. They saw rolling verdant mountains and a shimmering lake shining brightly under the sun. A small round island covered with trees divided the lake into two parts. One part was like the sun and the other part was like the moon, so they called it Sun Moon Lake. Attracted by the fertile soil and beautiful scenery there, the peasants decided to settle down and began a new life.

Originally called Shui Shalian and Long Lake, the Sun Moon is the largest natural lake in Taiwan. The climate in this area is quite temperate with the highest summer temperature being less than 22C (71.6F) and the lowest winter temperature bottoming out at 15C (59F). With such a pleasant climate, it is a top choice as a summer resort. Many places of interest are found around the lake. Among them the most famous are Wenwu Temple and Cien Pogoda.

Wenwu Temple, located near the north shore, pays homage to Confucius (551-479 BC), the founder of Confucianism. As you approach Wen Wu, the first thing you notice is its immense size. This isn't really just one temple, but rather a whole complex of shrines, courtyards and pagodas. Guarding the entrance is Asia's largest stone lions, and behind them lie the various shrines that honor both the pen of scholarly learning and the sword of military might. The Temple's main gate, elaborate carvings and sloping tiled roofs are attractions in their own rights, and it is here at the temple that you'll be able to take some of your best and most artistic photos of Sun Moon Lake itself.

Though Wen Wu might be the grandest place you'll visit, there's no doubt that the Cien Pagoda is the loftiest. Built by Chiang Kai-shek to commemorate his mother, the nine-floored Tsen Pagoda, or Pagoda of Filial Virtue, is a wonderfully serene site.

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