Merida Bikes Pedal Forward, Firefly Viewing & Lantern Displays at Sun Moon Lake

The Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration of the Tourism Bureau, MOT, in its efforts to promote the “Travel Taiwan • Touch 100” campaign and in conjunction with Earth Day on April 22, has partnered with Merida Bicycles for the sixth consecutive year to organize the “2010 Sun Moon Lake Merida Bikes Pedal Forward & Starlight Firefly Season.” Registration for this year’s event is now open, featuring a special Starlight Bonfire Party at Ita Thao Wharf, where local popular bands will perform, offering visitors a unique experience at the heart of Taiwan.

Now in its sixth year, the Sun Moon Lake Pedal Forward event will kick off on May 2 at Ita Thao Wharf, with registration closing on April 11. Mid-April to mid-to-late May is also the best time to view fireflies at Sun Moon Lake. Professional ecological guides will lead visitors into the magical world of bioluminescence. The firefly viewing activities will run from April 17 to May 9.

To enhance the nighttime atmosphere at Sun Moon Lake and align with the theme of sparkling fireflies, the scenic area administration has relocated intricately crafted lanterns—featuring tigers, horses, white deer, cranes, butterflies, and various insects—created by senior lantern artists for the Taiwan Lantern Festival, to locations such as Shuishe Wharf, the Shuishe Waterfront Promenade, Meihé Garden, and the Shuishe Visitor Center. In addition to joining the firefly viewing events, nighttime visitors can stroll along the lakeside with family and friends while admiring the colorful lantern displays, as if the Taiwan Lantern Festival has moved to Sun Moon Lake.

To prevent excessive visitor numbers from impacting the fragile habitats of the fireflies, the exact viewing spots will not be announced in advance this year, and a limited daily quota of only 80 participants will be available. Those interested in registering are urged to act quickly. The scenic area administration has also prepared a limited number of Year of the Tiger mini lanterns for children, available while supplies last. Officials strongly advise that as firefly habitats are located in remote, light-pollution-free areas and the creatures are very delicate, visitors must join guided tours led by professionals and should never attempt to search for fireflies in the dark on their own to avoid any danger.

Aside from Sun Moon Lake, nearby communities such as the Taomi Community Development Association in Puli Township and the Lianhua Pond Stream Conservation Association in Yuchi Township will also offer professionally guided firefly viewing activities during the same period. More details can be found on the official website of the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration.

2010 Sun Moon Lake Merida Bikes Pedal Forward
Event Date: May 2
Registration Deadline: April 11
Registration Info: Check the Merida company website and the Sun Moon Lake Scenic Area Administration website.

Sun Moon Lake Firefly Viewing
Event Period: April 17 – May 9
Registration Info: Download the application form from the Scenic Area Administration website, fill it out, and fax it to (049) 285-5593 to make a reservation.

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Further Reading: Enjoying the Four Seasons of Karuizawa (Provided by Tripass Attractions)