2026/01/07
Riding L’Étape Sun Moon Lake 2025 in Taiwan!
Kenta Was Absent! I Experienced a “Real Tour” at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan
Everyone, have you heard of the official amateur event of the Tour de France, “L’Étape”?
The dream‑like event “L’Étape Sun Moon Lake”, where cyclists from around the world can actually experience the atmosphere of the Tour de France, was held at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan.
Sun Moon Lake is a place I’ve visited once before on a Discover Ride trip.Lakeside cycling paths circle the area, and accommodations and cafés dot the surroundings—making it, so to speak, a “Taiwanese summer retreat.”
…That said, this time, amazingly, Kenta was absent. Because our schedules didn’t align, this became the first “Tsucchi solo report” in Discover Ride history.Being alone would have been daunting, so I asked Linda, a hugely popular Taiwanese cycling influencer, to join me, and together we bring you the race experience!
What Is L’Étape Sun Moon Lake?
Above all, watching the promo video instantly conveys the atmosphere of the event.
L’Étape Sun Moon Lake is the Asian edition of the “L’Étape by Tour de France,” an official amateur series endorsed by the organizers of the world’s largest bicycle race, the Tour de France.Set against the backdrop of Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan, cyclists from around the world gather here.
The race starts at “Xiangshan Visitor Center” on the lakeshore at an elevation of 700m and reaches a maximum elevation of over 1,500m.There are two course options: a 104km Challenge course and a 29km Classic course.This time, I took on the 104km course with a 6‑hour time limit—a true “real challenge” pushing the limit.
Sun Moon Lake was selected by CNN as one of the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in the World.”With its beautiful lakeside, misty mountains, and local cheers, it’s gaining attention each year as a race that moves you as you ride.
Surprised by the Pre‑Race Registration and Gift Box Elegance
The day before the race, I went to the “Xiangshan Visitor Center,” which serves as both the start and finish venue, to pick up my race bib.
Located on the south side of Sun Moon Lake, the Xiangshan Visitor Center offers tourist information as well as a café and viewing areas, making it a popular cyclist rest spot.
Designed by architect Norihiko Dan, its curved roof opens dramatically toward the lake.
For residents of Taiwan, race bibs are mailed in advance, but overseas participants must pick them up here the day before.
What surprised me was the strong sense of hospitality.The bib comes in a gift box, just like a present.Inside are items like the original jersey, socks, towel, and bottle.The entry fee is 4,000 TWD (about ¥20,000), but considering the content, it’s a great deal.
This time, I participated on a locally rented GIANT TCR (rim brake model).I only adjusted the saddle height, with no fine-tuning.
A Dawn Start into the Enchanted World of Sun Moon Lake
5 a.m. Though the sky is still dark, riders begin to gather. A row of headlights pierces the gloom, sparking excitement for the day ahead.
Tour de France sprinter Jasper Philipsen appears on stage. “I can’t believe I’m seeing a real pro!” Excitement shoots through the crowd.
About 1,600 participants from 30 countries—this is a truly international event.Invited elite riders line up in front, while us fan riders begin from the back in a wave start.The energy at the start gate is already electrifying.
With Kenta not around this time, I was extra nervous trying to juggle filming and riding. But Linda’s cheerful smile gave me a boost—and off we went!
Past the lakeside and into a misty downhill
6:00 AM — and we’re off! The chip on my race bib triggered the timer the moment I crossed the start gate.
The lake, shrouded in morning mist, looked like a mirror—perfectly reflecting the surrounding mountains in a dreamlike scene. The temperature hovered around 15°C, but it was expected to rise to nearly 30°C later in the day, meaning we’d also be racing against some serious heat.
Even in the early flat section along the lake, the surrounding riders were incredibly fast—cruising at speeds of 40 km/h even among the fun-ride group. Thankfully, with full traffic control in place, we could ride safely and focus on the race.
After cruising along the lakeside for about 5 kilometers, we dove into a thrilling 35-kilometer-long descent. As we passed through the mist, the scenery began to shift—townscapes gradually replacing the serene lakeside view.
Cheered on by spectators shouting “Jiayou!”—Taiwan’s version of “You’ve got this!”—I felt the unique energy that defines racing in Taiwan.
While riding along the course, a massive structure suddenly came into view—Chung Tai Chan Monastery.Linda turned to me and said, “This is actually a school for monks.”
Its sheer scale was so impressive that I instinctively stopped pedaling and looked up in awe.It didn’t look like a typical temple at all—more like a grand hotel.
Realization Hits at the First Aid Station: I’m Almost Dead Last
I reached the first aid station. Along the course, there were three aid stations set up—at the 37km, 57km, and 70km marks.Even though this is a serious race, the support points are well-prepared to ensure that beginners can ride with peace of mind.
Each aid station was fully stocked with bananas, salted candies, and energy drinks.I downed a chilled drink in one go, recharged with a banana, and was ready to ride again.
Looking around the aid station, I noticed almost no other riders in sight…
Turns out, I was near the very back of the pack.I told myself, “Well, I’ve still got time,” trying to stay relaxed—but I had no idea what was waiting for me next.
The Climb Begins – Entering the KOM Challenge
The sun was getting stronger, and the temperature had climbed past 25°C.Riding through peaceful countryside lined with rice fields and farms,I was finally approaching the day’s first big climb—the KOM Challenge.
The first KOM section stretches for 7 kilometers with a 350-meter elevation gain and an average gradient of 5%.It’s not steep enough to be called brutal, but the never-ending incline starts to take a toll.Partway up the climb, I noticed some riders had already dismounted, pushing their bikes uphill—proof that the challenge was real.
Unlike before, this time I was different.Thanks to all the tough love from Kenta during our summer gravel event, I was in much better shape—physically and mentally.Even while chatting with Linda along the way, I managed to conquer the climb with energy to spare!
At the summit of the climb, a bold “KOM Challenge” sign welcomed me with open arms.For a moment, I forgot all about the race—I just had to stop and snap a photo in front of it.
A race against the clock—and an unexpected aid station
After cresting the mountain, the descent began once again.As I flew down the long slope toward the second aid station, a new kind of pressure kicked in.
“Wait… 50 kilometers left, and only 3 hours to go? This might be bad…”
That thought alone was enough to kick my pace into high gear.The downhill breeze was refreshing, but in the back of my mind, I was already bracing for what lay ahead. Time was no longer just a number—it was the enemy I had to beat.
At the third aid station, around the 79km mark, I grabbed a bottle of ice-cold cola—an instant energy boost.But from here on out, it was 30 kilometers of climbing to the finish.To make things worse, there was only an hour and a half left before the time limit.
While we were climbing the second mountain pass after refueling, Linda suddenly said,
“At this pace, I don’t think I’ll make it within the time limit. Don’t worry about me—Tsuchi, you go full speed to the finish!”
I couldn’t believe it—a surprise DNF declaration from Linda!
I was here standing in for Kenta—I couldn’t let myself DNF now.The moment I told Linda, “I’ll see you at the finish,” something inside me clicked.Tsuchi switched into full race mode… though, to be fair, it was a race from the beginning!
And from here, it was a race against the clock.I just kept turning the pedals, climbing steadily.One by one, I passed riders who had resorted to walking their bikes—on foot but still fighting.
I kept pushing the climb at a slightly reckless pace, until I ran out of water and hit the verge of a bonk.Just when I was about to break… a “miracle aid station” appeared in front of me.
Turns out, it was a short-course aid station that had been opened up for long-distance riders.Saved by the cycling gods—this was nothing short of divine intervention.
Desperately clinging to hope, I chugged an energy drink like my life depended on it and jumped right back onto the course.Later, I heard that it was originally an aid station for the short course, but due to the unusually high temperatures this year, they extended its service for the long-course riders as well.
Final Push — Crossing the Finish Line Just in Time
Fueled up and back in the saddle, I kept pedaling forward. Every now and then, I caught a glimpse of the serene blue surface of Sun Moon Lake. The cycling paths around the lake are beautifully maintained, and under different circumstances, I would’ve loved to slow down and take it all in. But today was a race—no time to stop and enjoy the view.
Cheered on by the crowd along the roadside, I finally reached the finish gate! Glancing at the clock—exactly 6 hours on the dot. I had given it everything I had, crossing the line just in the nick of time.
From a certain point, it turned into a solo race—but the sense of achievement made me feel, “So this is what L’Étape is really all about.” At the finish, I was reunited with Linda, who had been taken ahead by the support vehicle. We shared smiles as we crossed paths again at the end.
The Reward and Afterglow of Finishing
Finishers were welcomed with warm zenzai (sweet red bean soup) and chimaki (sticky rice dumplings). After the long ride, the gentle sweetness and hint of salt soaked into our tired bodies and felt like pure comfort.
The venue was lively with displays of Tour de France jerseys and photo spots, where finishers proudly posed with their medals to capture the moment.
And to top it all off — there was even a special autograph session, where I managed to get a real signature from none other than Jasper Philipsen himself!
Reflections after the race
With a 6 hours time limit, this isn’t a ride you can take at a sightseeing pace — it’s a serious cycling event. Especially for those who love climbing or thrive on challenges, this course delivers in every way. As one of Taiwan’s premier races, it’s incredibly well-organized and polished. I can wholeheartedly recommend it even to those looking to take on their very first overseas race.
In Japan, the most well-known Tour de France-related event is the “Saitama Criterium.” Held on a short circuit through city streets, this spectator-friendly race brings fans up close to pro riders, making it an event mainly focused on watching elite cyclists in action.
By contrast, “L’Étape Sun Moon Lake” offers a completely different experience — it’s designed for amateur cyclists to ride and feel what it’s like to be part of the Tour. Covering nearly 100 km of challenging mountainous terrain, this event is truly a “Tour de France you experience with your whole body.”
A sense of scale and immersion that you simply can’t experience in Japan — this race had it all. You ride, you suffer, you’re moved… and still, you’ll find yourself wanting to take on the challenge again. That’s the kind of unforgettable event L’Étape Sun Moon Lake is.
The next edition is scheduled for late November 2026.
If you’ve ever thought, “I want to try racing abroad someday,” this is your chance. Follow the official Instagram account and stay up to date with the latest announcements!