A Hidden Valley Gem: Taiwan’s Miniature Gassho Village

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team     Photography by Tsai Kun-Lin

Japan’s UNESCO-listed Gassho Village resembles a fairytale dream, offering enchanting scenery in every season. Nestled in the forests of Alishan Township, Chiayi County, there’s a community whose architecture closely resembles a scaled-down version of the Gassho Village. This is De’ena Yana, the ancestral home of the Tsou people, holding significant meaning for the tribe’s industries, traditional wisdom, culture, and way of life. In August 2009, Typhoon Morakot severely devastated the La Ji tribe. Massive mudflows caused by torrential rains left residents homeless. In their quest for a permanent living environment and to sustain their community’s future, after years of efforts, De’ena Yana was finally completed on December 15, 2014, and handed over to residents on February 10, 2015.

The name De’ena Yana (Toe’uana) in the Tsou language means “a flat, safe land away from the riverbed.” Out of respect for nature, the steepled houses feature elevated foundations to minimize disruption to the terrain and preserve soil and water conservation. Tribal members participated in the construction of the permanent homes, conceptualizing the style and characteristics of each residence while incorporating Tsou cultural totems and features.

To promote Tsou culture, De’ena Yana offers homestay experiences and a variety of cultural and artistic programs and tours. Aside from providing an alternative accommodation option for visitors to Alishan, it also allows guests to learn about Tsou culture and daily life. Through immersive experiences, travelers can enrich their journey with a touch of tradition and cultural heritage.