Taitung Green Island offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling activities for an unforgettable experience!
Located approximately 300 kilometers off the coast of Taitung in Taiwan, Green Island, or Lüdao, earns its name from the lush greenery covering its small yet stunning landscape.
Known as the Island on Fire, it's fiery moniker stems from captivating tales. Some say the sea around the island glows blood orange at sunset, resembling flames.
Others attribute the name to lightning strikes witnessed by early settlers. Another legend suggests that a typhoon once washed away the island’s topsoil, exposing red soil against black volcanic rock, creating a fiery illusion. Whatever the origin, the island’s unique scenery enchants all who visit.
A Romantic Tribute to Green Island
Pan Ying Jeh’s iconic song, Green Island Serenade, though originally referring to Taiwan, often evokes images of Green Island for its poetic portrayal of romance and natural beauty. Rising from the Pacific Ocean as a result of submarine volcanic activity, Green Island is a paradise just a 50-minute boat ride from Taitung. It's warm climate, pristine waters, and rich history make it a beloved destination for travelers and divers worldwide.
Top Five Things to Do on Green Island
1. Diving
Green Island is a diver’s haven, boasting vibrant coral reefs and the world’s tallest living coral, thanks to its clean and warm waters. Divers from across the globe flock here to explore its underwater wonders. For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling provides a thrilling glimpse of marine life under expert guidance.
2. Saltwater Hot Springs
Green Island is home to one of the world’s three saltwater hot springs, the Zhaori Hot Spring, located on the island’s southeastern coast. Visitors can soak in the rejuvenating waters under a starry sky or while watching a breathtaking sunrise over the ocean.
3. Niutou Hill Grassland
Niutou Hill (Cow Head Hill) on the northeast coast resembles a seated cow, complete with a distinct head, nose, and ears. It’s not only a charming natural landmark but also a prime spot for sunrise and stunning ocean views.
4. Historic Prisons
Historically, Green Island was infamous for its prisons, where political prisoners and felons were exiled. Today, these sites serve as poignant reminders of Taiwan’s past, with some being repurposed into unique attractions like prison-themed restaurants.
5. New Life Correction Center
During Taiwan’s White Terror period, this correctional facility housed political prisoners for "thought transformation" through labor. Now open to the public, it offers a sobering glimpse into this dark chapter of Taiwan’s history.
A Taste of Green Island
Green Island’s cuisine reflects its resourceful and self-sustaining lifestyle, shaped by the limited resources available. Here are some must-try local delicacies:
1. Seaweed Ice
This subtropical island treat pairs shaved ice with seaweed for a refreshing combination of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. Topped with grass jelly and tapioca, it’s the ultimate summer dessert.
2. Starch Cake
Made from yams, peanuts, basil, and sticky rice, these traditional snacks are crispy and aromatic, offering a taste of the island’s agricultural history.
3. Sea Mushroom
A staple of Green Island’s seafood culture, sea mushroom refers to the skin or tail fin of cuttlefish. Stir-fried with basil, it’s a flavorful dish best enjoyed with rice.
Green Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and culture. From its fiery sunsets and volcanic origins to its tranquil hot springs and rich cuisine, it’s a destination that promises adventure and serenity in equal measure. Whether exploring its underwater wonders or uncovering its storied past, Green Island offers an unforgettable escape into nature and history!
📍GREEN ISLAND , TAITUNG TAIWAN 🇹🇼 Lyudao../AILENE BARRION....
Video by Ailene Barrion
