How to get from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake

Nature & Outdoors · Rivers & Lakes · Taiwan · Nantou County · Sun Moon Lake · Taichung · Taipei

Getting from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake is easy once you decide whether you prefer a direct bus, a fast high-speed rail combo, or a fully guided day tour from the city.

At A Glance (Taipei to Sun Moon Lake)

Mode Duration Best For
🚌 Direct Long-Distance Bus 1833 (Taipei Bus Station → Sun Moon Lake) ~3.5–4.5h, traffic-dependent Simple, budget-friendly, no transfers
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 400–550 one-way » official 1833 timetable | compare tickets
🚄 HSR to Taichung + Sun Moon Lake Shuttle Bus (6670) ~1h HSR + ~1.5–2h bus (+ transfer time) Fastest daytime travel, more departure choices
🏷️ Cost: HSR ~TWD 700–800 + bus ~TWD 200–300 » check HSR fares | 6670 bus info
🚆 TRA Train to Taichung + Sun Moon Lake Shuttle Bus ~2–2.5h train + ~1.5–2h bus Cheapest rail option, rail pass users
🏷️ Cost: Local/express trains from ~TWD 240–400 + bus ~TWD 200–300 » search TRA trains | Sun Moon Lake shuttle overview
🚐 Guided Day Tour / Private Transfer from Taipei ~10–12h round trip (full day) One-day visits, minimal planning, small groups
🏷️ Cost: Group tours from ~TWD 2,500–4,000 pp; private cars higher but shared by group » see day tours | Trip.com one-day tour | Klook private transfers

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Decide on overnight vs. day trip. Sun Moon Lake is beautiful at sunrise and sunset, so staying a night or two is ideal. Compare lakeside hotels and B&Bs in Shuishe, Ita Thao and surrounding villages on Booking.com Sun Moon Lake stays, and book early for weekends and holidays.
  • Reserve key transport in advance in peak seasons. Direct buses and some shuttles can sell out on weekends and during cherry blossom, summer and long holidays. Use the official timetable pages plus platforms like 12Go for Taipei–Sun Moon Lake buses to gauge times and availability.
  • Use EasyCard / iPASS where possible. Many buses and trains accept Taiwan’s stored-value cards, but some long-distance bus tickets (like 1833) may still require buying a paper ticket at the counter. Always carry some cash.
  • Check the official “Getting Here” advice. The Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Headquarters maintains a detailed Getting Here page summarizing rail, bus and road access from major cities.
  • Sort your flights and airport transfers first. Most international visitors fly into Taoyuan (TPE) or Songshan (TSA). Compare flights into Taipei on Booking.com Flights, then connect into the city or Taichung by HSR or bus.
  • Consider airport and city transfers. For late arrivals or lots of luggage, pre-book a car with Welcome Pickups in Taipei, or compare private rides on GetTransfer. In Taipei itself, ride-hailing apps such as Uber, plus ubiquitous yellow taxis, make it easy to reach Taipei Main Station or Taipei Bus Station.
  • Store extra luggage in Taipei or Taichung. If you are only bringing a small bag to the lake, ask your hotel to store luggage, or look at global storage networks like Radical Storage, which often list partners near major hubs like Taipei Main Station.
  • Mind weekends and weather. Weekends can be crowded around the lake, with bus lines for the shuttle and boats. Typhoons or heavy rain can disrupt transport, especially in summer and early autumn, so keep an eye on local weather alerts.

🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus 1833 (Most Popular, Easiest)

Low cost No transfers Limited departures

  • Overview: Kuo-Kuang Bus 1833 runs directly from Taipei Bus Station (by Taipei Main Station) to Sun Moon Lake Station near Shuishe, the main lakeside village. The ride typically takes around 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on traffic on the central highways.
  • Schedule basics: There are usually only a handful of departures per day, often starting in the morning and ending mid-afternoon. It is therefore essential to plan your day around the departure you want.
  • How to book (with price): Expect to pay roughly TWD 400–550 one-way. You can buy tickets at the Kuo-Kuang counter inside Taipei Bus Station, or check schedules and fares via the official TaiwanBus 1833 route page. Online booking is sometimes available through local platforms, while comparison sites like 12Go’s Taipei–Sun Moon Lake bus page show current departure windows and approximate pricing.
  • Onboard experience: Seats are generally comfortable coach-style with air conditioning, USB ports on some buses, and overhead racks. There may be a short rest stop en route; keep valuables on you when stepping off.
  • Pros: Cheapest and simplest direct option; no transfers, no navigating another city; drops you right at the lake.
  • Cons: Limited daily departures; subject to highway traffic; less flexibility if you want to stop in Taichung.
  • Ideal for: Travelers with fixed dates and simple luggage who want a low-stress journey straight from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus 1833 from Taipei

  1. Check the latest timetable. Visit the official 1833 page to see up-to-date departure times from Taipei Bus Station to Sun Moon Lake Station.
  2. Decide on your date and departure. Choose a morning or midday departure that fits your hotel checkout and Sun Moon Lake check-in time. Remember the ride can take up to 4.5 hours.
  3. Buy your ticket at Taipei Bus Station. Arrive at the station (next to Taipei Main Station) and head to the Kuo-Kuang counter on the first floor. Ask for a ticket on Bus 1833 to Sun Moon Lake, present your passport if needed, and pay in cash or card depending on the counter’s policy.
  4. Find the boarding gate. After purchasing, check the gate number on your ticket and follow station signs to the correct platform. Staff can confirm if you are unsure.
  5. Board and store your bags. Show your ticket to the driver, place large luggage in the under-floor compartment, and keep a daypack with essentials (water, snacks, jacket, power bank) with you on board.
  6. Ride to Sun Moon Lake Station. Enjoy highway scenery and brief rest stops. You will alight at Sun Moon Lake Station near Shuishe Visitor Center, from where it is a short walk or quick taxi ride to most accommodations.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Bus Station)

  • From Taipei Main Station: Taipei Bus Station is connected to Taipei Main Station via underground malls and walkways. Follow signs for “Taipei Bus Station”; allow 10–15 minutes to navigate corridors, especially with luggage.
  • By MRT: Take the Taipei MRT to Taipei Main Station on the Red or Blue lines. Follow station signs to the Y or Z exits that lead toward the bus station complex.
  • By taxi or ride-hailing: Taxis are plentiful; show the driver “台北轉運站” (Taipei Bus Station). You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber for door-to-door service from your hotel.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚄 Option #2 — HSR to Taichung + Sun Moon Lake Shuttle Bus (Fast, Flexible)

Fastest Frequent departures One transfer

  • Overview: Take the Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) from Taipei HSR Station to Taichung HSR Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to the Nantou Bus / Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Sun Moon Lake Route (6670), which goes directly to Sun Moon Lake.
  • Travel time: Around 2.5–3 hours total including transfer time, making this the fastest public-transport route on most days.
  • How to book (with price): HSR tickets from Taipei to Taichung typically cost around TWD 700–800 in standard class; search and buy on the official Taiwan High Speed Rail site or at station machines. The 6670 shuttle bus between Taichung HSR and Sun Moon Lake is usually around TWD 200–300 each way; check exact fare and timetable on the Nantou Bus 6670 page or the Sun Moon Lake Tourist Shuttle site.
  • Pros: Very frequent HSR departures; good for last-minute plans; reliable travel time; you can combine with a Taichung stopover.
  • Cons: Slightly higher overall cost than the direct bus; requires one transfer at Taichung HSR Station.
  • Ideal for: Travelers who value time over a small cost difference, or those connecting from the airport via Taoyuan HSR Station.

Step-by-step: HSR + Sun Moon Lake Shuttle

  1. Buy or reserve HSR tickets. On THSR’s official site or at ticket counters, book Taipei → Taichung HSR, ideally arriving 20–30 minutes before your preferred bus departure.
  2. Ride HSR to Taichung. Board the train at Taipei HSR Station (part of Taipei Main Station complex). Travel time is about one hour; keep your ticket handy for checks.
  3. Follow signs to the bus stop at Taichung HSR. After arrival, follow signs for “Bus” or “Nantou Bus” to the ground-level platforms. Look specifically for buses marked “Sun Moon Lake” or route 6670.
  4. Purchase your bus ticket. Depending on the current system, you may pay with cash, EasyCard, or buy a ticket at the Nantou Bus counter. Confirm the arrival stop (Sun Moon Lake/Shuishe).
  5. Board the 6670 Sun Moon Lake shuttle. Put large luggage in the luggage compartment, choose your seat, and enjoy views of central Taiwan as you head toward the lake.
  6. Arrive at Sun Moon Lake. Disembark at Shuishe or the designated stop; walk or take a short taxi ride to your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei & Taichung HSR Stations)

  • Taipei HSR Station access: Reach Taipei Main Station by MRT (Red/Blue lines), bus, taxi or Uber. HSR platforms are inside the same complex; follow signs for “High Speed Rail”.
  • Taichung HSR Station transfer: On arrival, look for the exit signs to the bus platforms. The Nantou/Sun Moon Lake buses depart from clearly marked bays; check platform screens for route 6670.
  • From Taoyuan Airport: You can ride the airport MRT or a taxi to Taoyuan HSR Station, take HSR to Taichung, then connect to the shuttle bus, which is convenient if you land and head straight for the lake.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆 Option #3 — TRA Train to Taichung + Bus (Cheapest Rail Route)

Budget-friendly Rail pass-friendly More travel time

  • Overview: Ride a Taiwan Railways (TRA) train from Taipei to Taichung (TRA), then transfer to a bus onward to Sun Moon Lake, usually from Taichung Gancheng Station, Taichung main bus terminals, or Taichung HSR Station by local bus link.
  • Travel time: Around 3.5–4.5 hours total, combining train and bus, depending on the type of train you choose (local, Chu-Kuang, Tze-Chiang) and waiting times.
  • How to book (with price): TRA fares Taipei–Taichung start around TWD 240–400 depending on train class; check and book via the official TRA timetable and booking system. For the Taichung–Sun Moon Lake bus, refer to the Sun Moon Lake 6670 shuttle information on the tourist shuttle page or the 6670 route listing.
  • Pros: Often cheaper than HSR; good if you have a rail pass or want to experience regular trains; Taichung TRA Station is closer to the city center, making it easy to add a city stopover.
  • Cons: Slightly more complex route; fewer English signs at some bus stops; slower than HSR.
  • Ideal for: Slow travelers, budget-conscious backpackers, and those already planning to explore Taichung city before heading to the lake.

Step-by-step: TRA Train + Bus via Taichung

  1. Pick your train. On the TRA site, search Taipei → Taichung and select a departure that gets you into Taichung in time for an afternoon bus to Sun Moon Lake.
  2. Ride to Taichung TRA Station. Board at Taipei, keep your ticket, and enjoy the ride south. Travel time is typically 2–2.5 hours depending on train type.
  3. Walk or take a local bus/taxi to the Sun Moon Lake bus stop. From Taichung TRA Station, you can either connect to Taichung Gancheng bus stops or use local transport to Taichung HSR Station, where many of the 6670 Sun Moon Lake buses originate.
  4. Buy your bus ticket. At the appropriate bus terminal or HSR bus platform, buy a ticket or tap your EasyCard for the Nantou/Sun Moon Lake bus. Confirm that your departure goes all the way to Sun Moon Lake and not just Puli.
  5. Continue to Sun Moon Lake. Board the bus, store luggage, and ride into the mountains, getting off at Shuishe or your chosen stop around the lake.

Getting to the main embarking points (TRA Taichung & Bus Stops)

  • TRA Taichung Station: Located in central Taichung, the station connects to many city buses. You can walk to nearby bus stops serving Puli and Sun Moon Lake or ride a local bus/taxi to Taichung HSR Station for the 6670 shuttle.
  • Local buses and taxis: Taichung has extensive city buses and affordable taxis. If unsure which bus to take, using a taxi to Taichung HSR Station often saves time, especially with luggage.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Guided Tours & Private Transfers (Hassle-Free)

Guided Door-to-door Higher cost

  • Overview: Full-day tours and private transfers from Taipei combine transport, guiding and key viewpoints around Sun Moon Lake in one package. Many include hotel pickup in Taipei and stops at Wenwu Temple, Ita Thao village, viewpoints, and a lake cruise.
  • Group tours: Join a shared coach or minibus tour from Taipei; these typically last 10–12 hours including travel time and sightseeing. Some focus solely on Sun Moon Lake; others combine Nantou highlights.
  • Private tours and charters: A driver-guide picks you up in Taipei, drives you to Sun Moon Lake and back, and tailors the day to your pace. You may have more flexibility to adjust the itinerary or linger at favorite spots.
  • How to book (with price): Expect TWD 2,500–4,000+ per person for group tours, and higher total costs for private charters (shared among your group). Compare itineraries and reviews on GetYourGuide’s Sun Moon Lake day tours or GetYourGuide tours with boat rides, as well as options like the Private 1-day Sun Moon Lake escape from Taipei. You can also browse one-day tours on Trip.com or shared transfer-style tours such as those departing from Ximending.
  • Private transfers only: If you just want a car, platforms like Klook private transfers between Taipei, Taichung & Sun Moon Lake or global services like GetTransfer let you pre-arrange door-to-door rides.
  • Pros: No navigating stations or timetables; hotel pickup; commentary from guides; very convenient if traveling with children, older family members, or lots of luggage.
  • Cons: More expensive than public transport; fixed schedule on group tours; limited free time compared to DIY trips.

Step-by-step: Joining a Day Tour or Using a Private Transfer

  1. Decide on group vs. private. If you like structure and meeting other travelers, pick a group coach tour. If you want full control of timing and stops, choose a private tour or transfer.
  2. Compare itineraries and inclusions. On Sun Moon Lake tour listings and Trip.com’s Sun Moon Lake attraction page, check which tours include hotel pickup, lunch, boat tickets, cable car rides, and entrance fees.
  3. Book your date and share hotel details. Reserve online; provide your hotel name and address in Taipei so the operator can confirm your pickup time and meeting point.
  4. Prepare for a long day. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, and pack water, snacks, and motion-sickness tablets if you are sensitive to winding mountain roads.
  5. Meet your driver or guide. Be ready 10–15 minutes before pickup time in your hotel lobby or at the designated meeting spot. Keep your confirmation email/voucher handy on your phone.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel Pickup & Meeting Spots)

  • Hotel pickup in Taipei: Most tours pick up at central Taipei hotels or near MRT stations like Taipei Main Station or Ximending. If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, the operator will assign a convenient meeting point.
  • Using local transport to meeting points: Taipei MRT and buses make it easy to reach central meeting points. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or local taxis are a simple backup if you are carrying luggage or starting before MRT hours.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Taipei to Sun Moon Lake)

How long does it take to get from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake?
Most travelers take around 3.5–4.5 hours one-way. The direct 1833 bus is roughly 4 hours, while the fastest HSR + shuttle bus combo typically takes about 2.5–3 hours including transfer time at Taichung HSR Station.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For weekends, holidays, and peak seasons, it is wise to book 1833 bus seats and popular Sun Moon Lake shuttles ahead of time. HSR tickets can often be bought on the day, but reserved seats may sell out at peak hours. Tours and private transfers definitely benefit from advance booking.

Can I use EasyCard or iPASS on the buses?
Many local and intercity buses in Taiwan accept EasyCard or iPASS, including some Sun Moon Lake shuttles. However, long-distance routes like 1833 may require a paper ticket purchased at the counter. Always ask at the station or check the latest information on official bus pages.

Is Sun Moon Lake doable as a day trip from Taipei?
Yes, but it will be a long day. A guided tour or private transfer makes a day trip realistic by handling all logistics. If you go by public transport, consider the earliest departures and latest returns, and be prepared for limited time on the trails and around the lake.

Where should I stay at Sun Moon Lake?
Most first-time visitors stay in Shuishe (convenient for buses) or Ita Thao (lively waterfront and cable car access). Compare guesthouses, lakeside hotels and boutique properties on Booking.com and book ahead for weekends.

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