Taiwan's Largest Open-Water Swim
The Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival has been held annually since 1983 — over forty years of tradition. Every mid-September (usually the Sunday near the Mid-Autumn Festival), more than 20,000 swimmers from around the world gather to cross 3.3 kilometers of open water. As local hosts, we look forward to it every year.
The Course: Chaowu Pier to Ita Thao
Swimmers start at Chaowu Pier on the west shore and swim east to Ita Thao, covering 3.3 km in a roughly straight line. Rescue boats accompany swimmers throughout. September water temperatures range from 22–26 °C. The freshwater provides less buoyancy than the ocean, so expect to work a bit harder.
Registration
- When: Online registration opens May–June; roughly 25,000 spots fill quickly
- Fee: ~NT$800–1,000 domestic; ~NT$1,500 international
- Requirements: Age 12+; able to swim 1,500 m continuously; minors need a guardian
- Tip: Register on the first day — spots sell out fast
Training Plan (3 Months)
- Month 1: Swim 3x/week, 1,000–1,500 m per session — build base fitness
- Month 2: Swim 3–4x/week, 1,500–2,000 m — add open-water practice
- Month 3: Swim 4x/week, 2,000–3,000 m — simulate race distance
Practice sighting every 10–15 strokes, adapt to cooler water, and pace at about 70% effort.
Race Day Timeline
- 5:00 AM — Wake up (our B&B provides an early-bird bento)
- 5:30–6:00 AM — Arrive at Chaowu Pier, check in
- 6:30 AM — Warm-up and safety briefing
- 7:00–7:30 AM — Staggered wave starts
- 9:00–11:00 AM — Swimmers arrive at Ita Thao (most finish in 1.5–3 hours)
Stay With Us
Book at least three months ahead — every room around the lake sells out. We offer swimmers a pre-race dinner, 5 AM bento, free shuttle to Chaowu Pier, and hot showers plus afternoon tea after you finish. We're only a 5-minute drive from the start line.
Practical Tips
- Leave dry clothes in the Ita Thao baggage drop
- Apply petroleum jelly to neck, underarms, and inner thighs to prevent chafing
- Wear a bright swim cap for visibility (organizers provide one, but bring a spare)
- Rest platforms and rescue boats are stationed along the course — no need to push beyond your limits