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David's Photo Page > Taiwan Trip: Sun Moon Lake

Taiwan Trip: Sun Moon Lake

December 27-28, 2004

The next destination during our trip to Taiwan was Sun Moon Lake, a picturesque lake located in the heart of Taiwan's mountains. Its original name meant "where water and sand meet" although sand is no longer easy to find since the lake was dammed in the early 20th century causing the water level to rise substantially. However, the lake is still beautiful, if not more so. At Sun Moon Lake, we stayed for one night at the exquisite Lalu Hotel.

At Sun Moon Lake, we stayed at the Lalu, an amazing hotel that sits right on the edge of the lake. The hotel is decorated in a traditional Japanese style, and every nook and cranny is artfully designed and beautiful. Every room has a spectacular view of the lake and is wonderfully appointed. This lily pond is right beside the main entrance to the hotel.

We lounged in the lobby of the Lalu after checking in.

Climbing the steep path to the Tsi An Pagoda, the first attraction we visited at Sun Moon Lake.

Upon reaching the top of the path, we have arrived at the base of the Tsi An Pagoda, built by Chiang Kai-shek in honor of his mother.

Helen and her family approach the Tsi An Pagoda in preparation for the climb to its top.

From the top of the Pagoda, which is just over 1000m above sea level, the entire Sun Moon Lake is visible.

Helen, Frank, and Jody pose for a picture from the top of the Pagoda.

Helen rings the large gong located at the top of the Tsi An Pagoda.

More stunning view from the top of the Pagoda.

Heading back down the stairs of the Pagoda.

After driving away from the Tsi An Pagoda, we stopped and looked back towards it. Here, the Pagoda is visible in the distance at the top of the mountainside.

A stone lion guards the entrance to the Wen-wu temple, looking out over Sun Moon Lake.

The entrance to the Wen-wu temple, which was built in 1938 to replace two older temples that were in the way of a dam project on the lake.

The gate in front of the Wen-wu temple is decorated with many animal statues, highlighted in front of the setting sun.

The colorful interior of the Wen-wu temple.

The sunset mountainscape of Sun Moon Lake as seen through the Wen-wu temple gate.

Sunset at Sun Moon Lake really brings out the beauty of the lake and its surrounding mountains.

Looking back from the Lalu hotel, the full moon is seen rising behind the Wen-wu temple.

The picturesque swimming pool of the Lalu hotel contrasts peacefully with the edge of Sun Moon Lake in the morning.

Two boats tied up at the Lalu dock.

The view from our room at the Lalu looking along the lake. The hotel spa is visible near ground level.

Helen enjoys her breakfast beside Sun Moon Lake.

The view of Sun Moon Lake from the Lalu hotel. The Tsi An Pagoda is barely visible far in the distance.

Even a mundane affair such as brushing your teeth can be an beautiful experience at the Lalu hotel.

Pleasing shadows cast by the morning sun in our room at the Lalu.

Urged by her parents, Jody bows to the matchmaking god in hopes of securing a mate.