Sun Moon Lake Ita Thao Pier｜A bustling lakeside indigenous village

📍 Location One of the three major piers at Sun Moon Lake, located in Ita Thao (formerly known as Dehua Village) in Yuchi Township, Nantou County. It is the main settlement of the Thao tribe. Surrounding the pier is the lively Ita Thao Old Street and indigenous shopping district. ⸻ 🚗 Transportation • Driving: Take Provincial Highway 21 to Ita Thao. There are several paid parking lots near the pier and Old Street. • By bus: Take the High-Speed Rail or Taiwan Railways to Taichung, then transfer to the "Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Sun Moon Lake Line" (6670 series) to Sun Moon Lake Station. From there, transfer to the Sun Moon Lake Sightseeing Bus 6669 (or 6669A) and get off at Ita Thao Station. • By boat: Take a lake cruise from Shuishe or Xuanguang Temple Pier. Boats run approximately every 15–20 minutes, offering a delightful lake tour. ⸻ 📝 Personal Experience The atmosphere at Ita Thao Pier is lively and full of indigenous charm. Next to the pier is an octagonal pavilion, and walking onto the pier offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The sight of boats coming and going creates a sense of slowed-down time. Stepping into the Old Street, you'll find an array of indigenous snacks and handmade goods, such as wild boar sausages, millet mochi, bamboo rice, and red tea egg rolls, each bite offering a taste of local flavor. I particularly enjoy the experience of savoring snacks while listening to the boat captain narrate the lake's history, and browsing Thao tribe cultural and creative products. The shops often feature Thao tribal songs, dances, or cultural markets, adding a warm and personal touch. Nearby is the Sun Moon Lake Cable Car Station, which integrates boat rides, cable cars, and walking trails into a seamless day trip. Overall, Ita Thao Pier is an excellent starting point or rest stop that combines nature, culture, and convenience. I highly recommend including it in your Sun Moon Lake itinerary!