Guishan Island Ecotourism

A secluded island in the Pacific Ocean, perpetually shrouded in white mist, it has always exuded an air of mystery. In the past, one could only gaze at it from afar, full of curiosity and imagination. Now, visitors can take a boat to the island and explore its unique blend of rugged and gentle scenery. Island Exploration Despite its small size, the island offers diverse attractions, rich in ecological wonders and cultural relics. The islanders' sole spiritual center, Putuoyan Temple, originally known as Gonglan Temple, now enshrines Guanyin Bodhisattva. At the other end of Guimei Lake, a statue of Guanyin riding a dragon stands by the lakeside, protecting all beings. The lakeside trail around Guimei Lake features a cold spring known as the 'Spring of Life on Guishan Island,' as well as Taiwan's only naturally growing native Livistona chinensis palm forest, and a rich and diverse array of flora and fauna. Along the Diospyros philippinensis Trail, a large tree with a diameter exceeding 80 cm is revered by local residents as a 'sacred tree.' The former site of Guishan Elementary School, once the island's highest educational institution, and the famous landmark 'Island Alone, People Not Alone' are also must-visit photo spots. The military tunnels, remnants of past garrisons, are very cool inside and a favorite spot for visitors to escape the summer heat. At the end of the tunnel is an abandoned artillery fort. The densely packed sound-absorbing cones on the ceiling evoke the austere military atmosphere of yesteryear. Yet, looking out, one sees a beautiful, dreamy blue ocean. A short island trip offers a full immersion in history, culture, and nature. 401 Highpoint Summit Challenge The actual highest point of Guishan Island is 398 meters. Adding the 3-meter-high bunker at the summit makes it the true '401 Highpoint.' This former military stronghold has now become an important trail for enjoying the island's ecological beauty. However, to reach the summit and enjoy the view, one must first complete a stone stair trail approximately 1300 meters long with 1700 steps, which takes about an hour or more. It is recommended to ascend slowly to observe the natural ecology. The biological diversity and forest landscape along the way are incredibly rich, including valuable low-altitude native forest. Upon reaching the highest point of the mountain, you can stand on the observation deck and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the island scenery. Marvel at the extraordinary sight of the 'turtle head' and 'turtle tail' from the 'turtle shell' (the island's main body). If the weather is good, you can even gaze into the distance at the beautiful mountain and sea landscapes of the Northeast Coast. Island Access Information Guishan Island Opening Hours: Open daily from March 1st to November 30th, 09:00-17:00. However, from June to September annually, operating hours may be adjusted to 08:30-17:30 daily, depending on weather conditions. In case of unfavorable weather, the island will be closed to entry. The island is open to the general public for tourism and recreation on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays through Sundays. Wednesdays are reserved for outdoor nature education or ecological research by schools and academic institutions, which also assist the office in monitoring the island's ecological environment. Application for Island Access: General tour groups should apply online to this office within 3 to 20 days prior to their planned island visit. Please follow the instructions on the website to enter the required application information. Important Notes for Island Access: Visitors must be accompanied by a professional guide when landing on the island. Accommodation is not available on the island; visitors are advised to bring their own water and food. Please do not litter or create any waste on the island. No items from the island may be taken without permission.