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Ita Thao serves as the cultural center of the indigenous Thao people. It offers aboriginal street food, lake transport, and a high-altitude cable car.
Located on the eastern side of Sun Moon Lake, Ita Thao is the primary hub for dining and cultural activities. The area provides direct access to the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway and operates a busy ferry terminal.
Most visitors stop here for lunch before heading up into the mountains via the cable car. You can reach the district in 15 to 20 minutes by taking the counter-clockwise ferry from Shuishe.
1-2 hoursFood prices vary
This lively market focuses on traditional aboriginal foods like wild boar sausages and bamboo rice. You can also find stalls selling the region's famous Assam black tea. Arrive hungry and eat your way through the stalls for lunch. Try the local Ruiza black tea while you walk.
1.5 hoursTicket required
This cable car system connects Ita Thao to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. The ride carries passengers over the mountains and provides aerial views of the lake. Wait for a crystal cabin with a glass bottom if you want clear views directly below you.
30 minutesFerry stop
This eastern docking point handles the hop-on hop-off passenger ferries. It sits immediately next to the shopping district for easy access after a meal. Check the daily ferry schedule before exploring the town. The last boat back to Shuishe typically departs around 5:00 PM.
