Guishan Island
龜山島
An active volcanic island off the coast of Yilan, shaped like a floating turtle. Visit Turtle Tail Lake, climb Elevation 401, or take a boat tour around the island to watch whales and the "Milk Sea."
Turtle Island (Guishan Island) is about 10 km from Wushi Harbor in Toucheng. It is the only recorded active volcanic island in Taiwan. Its shape resembles a turtle floating on the sea, and it is a landmark for the people of Yilan. The island was once home to residents, but they were relocated because of military controls. Tourism only gradually opened after 2000. Visitors can see Turtle Tail Lake, the old Putuoyan Rock, military tunnels, and the remains of a former fishing village. Fit hikers can apply to climb Elevation 401 (about 1,706 steps). Spots are limited, and climbers must enter and leave during the same time slot. On the boat trip around the island, you can see the "milk sea" (a milky-white area near the turtle's head), created by hot springs on the seabed, as well as the turtle's head, where sulfur vents release smoke. To land on the island, you must apply in advance through the Turtle Island landing application website run by the Northeastern Coast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area. Applications generally open 20 days ahead, with about 1,800 people per day across 4 time slots. Once your application is approved, book a boat with a whale-watching company at Wushi Harbor. Trips that circle the island and go whale watching without landing do not require an application. The island is open from March to November each year. It is closed on Wednesdays and in bad weather. Boat tickets cost about NT$1,000–1,500, depending on the itinerary. Notes: sea conditions change quickly, and seasickness is common, so take motion sickness medicine in advance. There are no shops on the island, so bring your own drinking water and sunscreen.
Opening hours
Mar–Nov 09:00–17:00 (summer approx. 08:30–17:30); no island landings on Wednesdays
Nearby sights
- Beiguan Tidal Park
- Honeymoon Bay
- Wai'ao Beach
- Lanyang Museum
- Toucheng Old Street
- Caoling Historic Trail
- Jiaoxi Hot Springs
- Yilan Center for Traditional Arts