Attraction · Sun Moon Lake
Ci'en Pagoda
A nine-storey pagoda built by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother, reached by a steep staircase through the forest. The top offers the best full-lake panorama.
Photo: ironypoisoning · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
The visit
The climb to Ci’en Pagoda is steep, but the view from the top is one of the best around the lake. The pagoda itself is a quiet memorial rather than a major sight, so come for the walk and the panorama. Allow time to rest on the way up.
History and context
Chiang Kai-shek built this nine-storey pagoda in 1971 in memory of his mother. It stands above the lake and is reached by a steep stone stairway.
Chiang Kai-shek commissioned the pagoda in 1971 as a memorial to his mother, choosing a hillside site facing the lake. It was built in a traditional style but with modern materials, and it remains a quiet counterpoint to the lake’s busier resorts.
What to see
- Nine-storey lakeside pagoda
- Steep stone stairway
- Views over Sun Moon Lake
- Memorial built by Chiang Kai-shek
Practical notes
- Allow about: 1.5 hours
- Type: viewpoint
- Destination: Sun Moon Lake
- Tickets: Free
- Best time: Morning
- Booking: Not needed
- Accessibility: Limited
Getting there
- Ferry: from Ita Thao
- On foot: Ci’en Pagoda — 20 min walk
Good to know
The climb takes about 20 minutes from the road. Go in the morning before the clouds build.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
Recommended duration: 1.5 hours.
When is the best time to visit?
Go in the morning, when it is cooler and less crowded.
Do I need to book?
No booking is needed.
Location
Keep exploring
More places in Sun Moon Lake
Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
A theme park and cultural village combined, with performances, traditional houses and a cable car over the lake. It is touristy but a good option for families.
CultureIta Thao village
The lakeside village of the Thao people, with a market selling millet wine, wild-boar sausage and tea eggs, plus a small cultural centre. Boats from Shuishe dock here.
NatureThe lake loop by bike
A 30-kilometre cycle path circles the lake, passing through tunnels of trees, tea farms and waterfront villages. The section between Shuishe and Xiangshan is especially beautiful.
TempleWenwu Temple
A grand lakeside temple dedicated to Confucius and the gods of war and literature, with sweeping views over the water and mountains. The architecture is a photogenic blend of northern Chinese styles.