The direct bus route between Sun Moon Lake and Xitou is now officially open.

By Wei Ruwei, compiled and reported

Two major scenic spots in Nantou County — Sun Moon Lake and Xitou — are now directly connected by a new bus route. This line is operated by Nantou Bus and Yuanlin Bus under the franchise for the “Sun Moon Lake – Shuili – Jiji – Zhushan – Xitou” route. Buses depart daily starting at 07:00 and 13:30, with one trip every two hours, totaling six round trips per day. In addition to linking the two major attractions, the route also passes by several well-known tourist spots such as Shuili Snake Kiln, Jiji Railway Station, Zhushan Zinan Temple, and Lugu. Until the end of February, visitors can enjoy a NT$200 discount on one-day passes.

In the past, many tourists complained that while it was very convenient to reach Sun Moon Lake and Xitou via Taiwan Tourist Shuttle buses from Taichung, planning a trip to both destinations was difficult due to the lack of a direct bus connection. With the opening of the “Sun Moon Lake – Xitou” route, travelers no longer need to go through the hassle of multiple transfers, saving both time and money. Passengers can purchase a one-day pass for the “Sun Moon Lake – Xitou” route, which allows unlimited boardings within the day, making it easy to stop by Jiji for a bike ride or visit Shuili Snake Kiln and Zinan Temple for blessings.

In addition, the bus operators on this route have already begun planning package tours. In the future, they will combine the Sun Moon Lake Good Trip Pass and the Xitou Good Trip Pass to launch a brand-new “Sun Moon Lake – Xitou” package. The package will include tickets for the “Sun Moon Lake – Xitou” route, the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Sun Moon Lake Line, the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Xitou Line, along with discounts from other partner merchants, offering an affordable and convenient new way to travel.

For bus information, please contact Nantou Bus at 049-2984031 or visit their website: www.ntbus.com.tw