In a continuous effort to enhance the quality of the living environment around Sun Moon Lake, the Nantou County Government drove forward the “Yuchi Township, Riyue Village, Ita Thao Family Park Development Project,” and officially inaugurated the park on Dec. 3rd following two phases of construction. The new facility provides a premier recreational space for local residents and families.
The opening ceremony was attended by County Mayor Hsu Shu-Hua, along with County Councilors Shih Ching-Lung (Rungquan.Lhkatafatu), Chuan Wen-Tsai (Balan.Soqluman), and Wang Chiu-Shu; Lin Ting-Yu, Acting Director of the Indigenous Peoples Department, Nantou County Government; Yuchi Township Mayor Liou Ci-Fan; tribal elders; and local residents. The event began with a traditional blessing ritual led by tribal elders. Following the ceremony, local children eagerly explored the new facilities, joined by County Mayor Hsu, who added to the festive atmosphere by distributing ‘red envelopes’ to the children as meal subsidies.
County Mayor Hsu stated that Sun Moon Lake is a nationally renowned attraction. In addition to comprehensive environmental planning, the county government also listens closely to the voices of local residents. After Councilor Shih Ching-Lung conveyed community needs, the county secured NT$5.5 million in funding to revitalize an aging park. The upgrades include expanded recreational, sports, and accessible facilities, ensuring that both seniors and children can enjoy the space safely and happily. The park also provides a resting spot for tourists, enhancing local quality of life while positively contributing to the tourism environment and the cultural identity of the Ita Thao tribe.
The project was a collaborative effort between the County Government and the Yuchi Township Office, focusing on revitalizing public spaces and improving playground safety. Construction was carried out in two phases. The first phase, funded with NT$4.5 million, renovated the play area with new composite play equipment, safety mats, improved lighting, and colorful tassel shade netting to provide children with a safer play environment. The second phase, funded with NT$1 million, strengthened surrounding facilities, including anti-collision treatments for bases, replacement of accessible handrails, installation of protective fencing, and the addition of a playful owl-themed washbasin. These enhancements create a more complete space that meets the needs of different age groups. Moving forward, the Yuchi Township Office will oversee the park’s maintenance and management.
According to the Indigenous Peoples Department, this project is guided by the core principles of safety, inclusiveness, and multifunctionality. The facilities feature barrier-free pathways to ensure ease of use for both children and their caregivers. With improved shading and integrated recreational features, the park is set to become a primary space for residents’ daily relaxation and a new "family-friendly" highlight for Sun Moon Lake tourism. Looking ahead, the county government will continue advancing public infrastructure to foster a more welcoming and livable environment, striving to make Nantou a happy city that is both family-friendly and a premier destination for visitors.