From our hotel room, we could see the calm surface of Sun Moon Lake.The misty mountains created a dreamlike view, making the start of our second ride day peaceful and calming.

After breakfast, we left our luggage at the hotel and prepared to leave.With only the bare essentials, we finally set out for the full loop around Sun Moon Lake.We felt light in both body and mind.

We took a photo with the spectacular scenery of Sun Moon Lake behind us before starting.The weather was perfect, and after applying sunscreen carefully, we set off for our ride around Sun Moon Lake!

Right next to our hotel was a GIANT store.They offered free air pumps—a reliable service for cyclists traveling away from home.We made sure our tires were in perfect condition before departing.

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Inside, they rented out road bikes and e-bikes.They also stocked essentials like water bottles and tires, letting us head out feeling well-prepared.

With our tires topped up, we were ready to go.We departed from Shuishe Port on the north side and started riding counterclockwise toward Ita Thao Port on the south side.We felt excited for the scenery awaiting us along the lakeshore.

About 4 km from the start, we reached Wenwu Temple.This famous site, dedicated to gods of literature and war, had an impressive gate and beautiful decorations.From the temple grounds, we could see the entire lake—an irresistible photo spot.

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At Wenwu Temple, our group prayed for a safe trip.Surrounded by the solemn atmosphere, we calmed our minds and wished for a successful ride.Feeling refreshed, we set off again.

Provincial Highway 21 along Sun Moon Lake had more ups and downs than expected.Next to the road was a path suitable for bikes—a perfect option for a more leisurely ride.

About 10 km from the start, we arrived at Ita Thao Port on the southern shore.This lively port town was full of souvenir shops and restaurants—perfect for exploring.

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Ita Thao Port is known for the “Nine Frogs Stack,” a bronze statue of nine frogs piled atop each other. Depending on the lake’s water level, you can see more or fewer frogs—making it a quirky landmark.We couldn’t spot it this time, so we settled for a green frog statue by the lakeshore.

After taking a break at Ita Thao Port, we set off again.Led by Sam, we kept up a brisk pace as the ride took us through lush, sun-dappled stretches.The cool, pleasant roads made for comfortable riding.

About 10 km from Ita Thao Port, we reached the entrance to the Moon Lake Cycling Path.This route leaves the main road, letting you ride right along the water’s edge.

Parts of the Moon Lake path can be wet and slippery, and other cyclists pass by in both directions, so it’s important to keep your speed down.There are several stair sections—no need to rush; just dismount and walk.

Along the path, we were treated to spectacular views of Sun Moon Lake up close.The contrast between the green hills and the lake was beautiful—a truly relaxing experience.

After riding about 5 km along the cycling road, we arrived at Xiangshan Visitor Center by the lake.Designed by Japanese architect Norihiko Dan, its elegant curves and open spaces made it an unforgettable place to rest.

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At the Visitor Center, you could pick up tourist maps and brochures, and they even had air pumps and other cyclist-friendly facilities.It was perfect for both taking a break and gathering information.

You could refill your water bottles for free at Xiangshan Visitor Center.We filled our bottles to prepare for the hotter midday ride.

Some sections along the lakeside cycling path require you to dismount and walk due to heavier foot traffic.It was also nice to stroll slowly and take in the scenery.

Near our starting point at Shuishe Port, the Lakeside Cycling Path runs right over the water—truly stunning.It’s an iconic spot that symbolizes Sun Moon Lake.

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We successfully completed the roughly 30 km loop around Sun Moon Lake.We returned to our starting hotel, collected our bikepacking gear, and mounted it again.

After 1 PM, feeling hungry, our group left Sun Moon Lake and arrived at “Desolate Coffee,” a café with a stylish exterior.It was time for lunch to recover from the morning ride.

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The café had a striking three-story design with floor-to-ceiling glass walls.The white interior was filled with natural light and felt open and airy.It was a popular Instagram spot, busy on weekends, offering house-roasted coffee and light meals.

The thick noodles were cooked al dente and coated with a rich meat sauce.When we broke the soft-boiled egg and mixed it in, it added a gentle richness that was comforting.It was a deeply satisfying lunch plate.

To finish lunch, we ordered a double iced café latte.Its rich flavor soaked into our tired minds, refreshing us perfectly after the morning ride.

After lunch, we headed to Sun Moon Old Tea Factory, its walls covered in beautiful ivy.Founded in 1925, this long-established tea factory had a nostalgic, calming atmosphere.Inside, filled with the aroma of black tea, visitors could tour and sample teas.

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Rows of carefully crafted teas and souvenir tea leaves lined the shelves.Since we were still riding, we opted for a light tasting only.The deep, refined flavors made us pause to savor the moment.

The factory tour was free and showcased vintage tea-making machines and the building’s history.We strolled leisurely, reflecting on how tea is made.

For our tea break, we had Sun Moon Lake’s specialty—black tea ice cream.One bite released an intense aroma of black tea, leaving an elegant aftertaste.It was the perfect reward after a long ride.

With our hunger satisfied, we set off again.About 70 km remained until we reached Taichung.It was 2 p.m., and we had a mostly downhill ride ahead.

There were few traffic lights, so we sped through a 30 km descent.The smooth pavement made for such comfortable riding that Kenta couldn’t stop smiling.

After the descent, we stopped at a convenience store for a short break.Kenta grabbed a soda to quench his thirst and recharge.The cold carbonation was perfect after the ride.

After the long descent, we arrived in Caotun, with its charming old streets.Traffic picked up as we pressed on toward our goal in Taichung, feeling the energy of the city.

Just 10 km before the finish, Tsucchi got a flat tire.A piece of metal had torn the tire, but he quickly replaced the tube with practiced hands.

With the flat fixed, we set off again in good spirits.We carefully navigated the busy evening traffic, focused on safely reaching our finish point in Taichung.

At last, we arrived at Le Way Inn Hotel.Thanks to Sam’s strong support, we finished safely.Everyone smiled, soaking in a sense of accomplishment.

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At Le Way Inn, you can bring your bike right into your room—a huge plus.Every room has its own washing machine (detergent available free at the front desk), which was very convenient.

Even just completing the loop around Sun Moon Lake was a deeply satisfying ride. But combined with the Ershui Bike Path, the Jiji Green Tunnel, the town streets of Jiji, and the tastes of Taiwanese cuisine the day before, we experienced so much nature and culture in two days.From the beautiful lakeside views to meeting locals, and the many rewarding climbs and descents, it was a trip that satisfied both heart and stomach.

The next day, I returned to Taoyuan International Airport and picked up the bike bag I’d sent ahead by courier before departure. In Taiwan, it’s so convenient to have it waiting at the airport—it made traveling all the way to the end really smooth.

After arriving at the airport, I carefully packed my bike back into the travel bag. Once everything was secured, I checked in for my flight home without any issues.

I flew back to Narita Airport with China Airlines. One thing that’s great for cyclists is that even on the return trip, they let you check your bike as luggage for free (as long as it’s under 23 kg and within a combined size of 290 cm). Such a nice perk!