The annual Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival will take place this year on September 24th. It is the longest-running and largest outdoor open water swimming event in Taiwan, starting from 1983 and now entering its 41st year. Over the years, it has become one of the top three beloved activities in Taiwan alongside conquering Yushan (Jade Mountain) and cycling around the island, demonstrating its popularity among the public.
The starting point for this year’s swimming event remains at the Zhaowu Pier of Sun Moon Lake, with the finish line at the Ita Thao Pier. The total distance remains approximately 3000 meters. Due to the easing of the global pandemic situation and the opening of borders, 317 international swimmers from 33 countries are participating. There are 61 teams with 195 swimmers in the disabled swimmers’ category. Swimming across Sun Moon Lake symbolizes fearlessness in the lives of disabled friends, embodying the spirit of perseverance and courage to challenge oneself. It sets an example for swimmers. Everyone is welcome to join the grand carnival at Sun Moon Lake, cheer for the participants, and witness the heroic achievement of crossing Sun Moon Lake.
In addition, the Agriculture Department of Nantou County Government is enhancing the breeding of fishery resources in the public waters of Sun Moon Lake. In coordination with the Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival, County Magistrate Hsu Shu-hua, former President Ma Ying-jeou, and honored guests of the event will be accompanied by students from Mingtan Elementary School. Together, they will release 10,000 juvenile Taiwan tilapia (commonly known as “President’s Fish”) into the lake, symbolizing the endless ecological vitality of the reservoir. The organizers have arranged a series of activities to diversify and integrate ecological education into the Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival. The event promises to be exciting, and everyone is warmly welcomed to participate.
After the swimming event, feel free to explore the surrounding attractions of Sun Moon Lake. In addition to taking the cable car for a panoramic view of the magnificent lake, savoring the local culinary culture, and strolling along the nearby trails, we also recommend a visit to the Lu Gao Cafe. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and taste the local specialties of Nantou. Another recommendation is the newly opened Feeling18 LAB – a baking research facility this year. Immerse yourself in the laboratory atmosphere and savor Nantou chocolate, along with famous souvenirs. We highly recommend using public transportation – Taiwan Trip. Now with the use of electronic tickets, there’s a half-price discount, making it perfect for planning a two-day-one-night or three-day-two-night trip to roam and enjoy the natural beauty of Nantou.
In addition to the grand Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival , there are many exciting events awaiting you in the second half of the year in Nantou. Events such as the Nantou Hiking Festival, Chocolate and Coffee Festival, and Nantou Hot Spring Season are some of them. Nantou is a famous hot spring destination in Taiwan. Every year during the Nantou Hot Spring Season, numerous visitors are attracted to bathe in the hot springs, relax, and experience the blend of health and beauty. We sincerely invite everyone to come to Nantou, explore this beautiful land together, and experience its abundant charm.”
