Sun Moon Lake and Qingjing Farm Tour Taichung City Hotel Pickup

Traveling around Taiwan offers countless ways to enjoy its stunning landscapes, and one popular choice is combining visits to Sun Moon Lake and Qingjing Farm. This specific tour, offered by TrevoTour Travels, is marketed as a full-day experience with hotel pickup, scenic boat rides, and visits to European-inspired gardens and farms. But as with many group excursions, the actual experience can vary quite a bit.

What we appreciate about this tour is its promise of seamless transport and a well-rounded itinerary, designed to showcase some of the most picturesque parts of Taiwan’s highlands and lakes. The chance to cruise across Sun Moon Lake and stroll through Swiss-style gardens sounds ideal for photo lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

However, there’s a significant caveat: the reviews reveal a troubled history with reliability. One traveler reported paying but not being picked up at all, suggesting that the experience might be inconsistent or poorly managed. This potential drawback is worth considering if your schedule depends on punctuality and a smooth experience.

This tour seems best suited for adventurous travelers who are flexible, willing to accept some uncertainties, and mainly interested in the highlights of Sun Moon Lake and Qingjing without overly fussing about small details. Now, let’s unpack the details and see what makes this tour tick—or falter.

• Stunning visuals: The boat cruise and mountain views are the main attractions.
• European-inspired sights: The Old England and Swiss Garden offer a fairy-tale feel.
• Farm life and animal encounters: Qingjing Farm’s sheep and equestrian show bring a pastoral charm.
• Weather dependency: Some locations, like the skywalk, depend heavily on weather conditions.
• Variable reliability: Negative reviews highlight potential issues with punctuality and organization.
• Value for money: At $64.99, the tour provides access to multiple attractions, but the overall experience may be inconsistent.

Sun Moon Lake: A Serene Start

Sun Moon Lake is undeniably Taiwan’s most famous natural wonder. This tour kicks off in the heart of the island with a visit to the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area. The highlight here is the scenic boat ride from Shuishe Pier, which offers a chance to see the lake’s shimmering waters and surrounding peaks. Travelers can expect to glide past the iconic division of the lake, which resembles a sun and a moon.

The water’s reflective quality, especially in good weather, makes for spectacular photos. As you cruise, you’ll be treated to a sense of peace and natural beauty that’s hard to match. Along the way, you’re also served a cup of Assam tea, which adds a restful pause and a taste of local hospitality.

One reviewer mentioned that the boat ride offers a calm, scenic escape. This is an element many find worth the trip, especially when combined with the picturesque mountain backdrop. But keep in mind, the boat is just a part of the experience; the tour doesn’t include special entrance fees at this stop.

The Old England and Swiss Gardens: A European Village in Taiwan

A short drive from Sun Moon Lake takes you to The Old England, a charming location designed to resemble an English manor. Its intricate architecture and grand presence make it a fun photo stop, and it offers a taste of European elegance right in Taiwan.

Nearby, the Small Swiss Garden offers a more tranquil atmosphere, with colorful flowerbeds and beautifully maintained walkways. This spot is often called the “Switzerland of Taiwan,” and it’s easy to see why—vivid blooms, crisp mountain air, and a peaceful vibe make it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The Qingjing Skywalk completes this trio, giving visitors a chance to walk above the clouds and enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills and valleys. It’s an exciting experience for those who love scenic vistas, but note that the skywalk’s visibility and experience are weather-dependent, and some travelers may find it less impressive if fog or rain obscure the views.

Qingjing Farm: Pastoral Bliss and Animal Encounters

Next, the tour moves to Qingjing Farm, a highlight for many. The farm’s open pastures, dotted with sheep roaming freely, evoke a European countryside atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy feeding the sheep or simply soaking in the mountain air.

A major attraction here is the Cingjing Farm Equestrian Show, where skilled riders perform stunts and maneuvers on horseback. While this is a neat spectacle, some reviews point out that, depending on the day, the show might be less thrilling or slightly disorganized.

At Qingjing Farm, you’ll also get a glimpse of farm life, with the chance to interact with animals and enjoy the lush green landscapes. The farm’s location offers sweeping views of the mountains, making it a scenic finale to the day’s itinerary.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour promises hotel pickup, simplifying logistics for travelers. The group size is capped at 60, which means it’s a manageable tour but large enough to feel a bit like a school field trip sometimes. Transport is typically comfortable, but the experience hinges heavily on the driver and guide’s efficiency.

Duration and Timing

Spanning approximately 7 to 8 hours, the tour begins at 8:00 am. This timing allows for a full day of sightseeing, but it leaves little room for flexibility or spontaneous exploration. Some travelers might find the schedule tight, especially if attractions are crowded or if delays occur.

Cost and Value

At $64.99 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering the number of stops. Included in the price is the Sun Moon Lake boat cruise and a guide speaking both English and Chinese. It also includes a cup of Assam tea, which adds a small but thoughtful touch.

However, note that admission fees for attractions like Cingjing Farm, Little Swiss Garden, and the Skywalk are not included, totaling about $10.50 USD. While manageable, this means you’ll want to budget extra if you’re keen on exploring every site thoroughly.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour’s success relies on good weather, especially for the skywalk and mountain views. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. But keep in mind, the non-refundable policy means you should confirm your plans before booking.

Review Insights and Reliability

One major warning from a disappointed traveler named Arminas_M was about not being picked up at all after booking — an experience that leaves a sour taste and highlights potential organizational issues. The support from Viator was responsive, but no refund was issued, raising concerns about reliability.

Such reports suggest that if punctuality and a smooth experience are critical for you, this tour might pose risks. It’s crucial to weigh the scenic appeal against the possibility of logistical hiccups.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value scenic views and photo opportunities over tightly structured schedules. If you’re looking for a relaxed day exploring Taiwan’s highland beauty, with stops that feel like a fairy tale, this could suit you.

It’s also suitable for those on a budget, as the price covers many highlights, but travelers should be prepared for additional costs at some attractions. Nature lovers and farm enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the sheep, the views, and the chance to experience farm life.

However, if you’re someone who demands punctuality, seamless organization, or detailed guided experiences, you might want to consider other options, given the mixed reliability reviews.

This tour offers a beautiful snapshot of Taiwan’s natural and European-inspired scenery. The boat ride across Sun Moon Lake and the chance to wander through Swiss-style gardens are undeniably highlights that many will cherish. The farm visit and sheep encounters add a pastoral charm that appeals to families and animal lovers.

But, the experience can be marred by logistical issues, and some attractions depend heavily on weather conditions. The non-refundable policy and inconsistent reviews mean travelers should approach with a flexible mindset and clear expectations.

In terms of value, the price is reasonable for a full day of sightseeing, but be prepared for additional costs if you want to fully explore each site. Keep in mind that this tour is best suited for those craving scenic beauty and cultural highlights rather than a perfectly organized, hassle-free experience.

If reliability and punctuality are your priority, or if you’re looking for a more curated or personalized experience, you may want to explore other options. But if you’re flexible, excited by the promise of scenic mountain views, and eager to see Taiwan’s highlands with a group, this tour could still be worth considering—just with a cautious approach.

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in Taichung, making logistics easier for travelers staying in the city.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for attractions like Cingjing Farm, Small Swiss Garden, and the skywalk are not included and will cost around $10.50 USD altogether.

What are the main attractions?
The key stops are Sun Moon Lake with a boat ride, The Old England, Small Swiss Garden, Qingjing Skywalk, and Qingjing Farm with its sheep and equestrian show.

How reliable is the tour?
Reviews indicate some issues with punctuality and organization, with at least one traveler reporting they were not picked up at all. Be prepared for potential hiccups.

Is the weather a concern?
Yes, especially for the skywalk and mountain views. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions can affect the overall experience.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and extra money for optional attractions or souvenirs.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a fixed group tour, customization options are limited. However, you can choose to skip optional attractions or explore on your own afterward.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, families with children can enjoy the scenic rides and farm animals, but be mindful of the weather and walking distances.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is through Viator, and it’s advisable to reserve at least a week in advance due to popularity, though reliability can vary.

This Sun Moon Lake and Qingjing Farm tour offers a snapshot of Taiwan’s mountain scenery, European-style gardens, and pastoral farm life. It’s best for travelers seeking picture-perfect moments and laid-back exploration rather than a flawlessly organized experience. Always double-check recent reviews and consider extra costs before booking. With a bit of patience and flexibility, it can be a memorable part of your Taiwan adventure, especially if you love nature’s tranquility and scenic views.