Guishan Island (Turtle Island) | Yilan Attraction

Guishan Island lies about 10 km off the coast of Toucheng, Yilan, and its shape closely resembles a floating turtle — it is Yilan's most iconic landmark. The island is a volcano; its eastern seafloor still has active hydrothermal vents whose warm, acidic water creates a distinctive marine ecosystem in the surrounding sea. Current policy allows a limited daily quota of visitors to land on the island, with periodic adjustments to ecological protection controls.

Highlights of Guishan Island

Guishan Island falls within the Lanyang River Estuary Waterbird Protection Zone and the Guishan Island Marine Recreational Fishing Area management zone. The hydrothermal vents on the island's eastern seafloor can be observed from a semi-submarine or glass-bottomed boat; the water takes on a yellow-green tint from its sulfurous content, distinctly different from normal seawater. After landing, visitors can walk the circumisland trail, viewing Indigenous-related exhibits, remnants of the island's former settlement, and the lighthouse; the trail gradient varies considerably by section.

The waters around Guishan Island are one of the highest-density cetacean observation spots on Taiwan's east coast; species such as spinner dolphins and Fraser's dolphins can be spotted here. Whale-watching boats depart from Wushi Harbor; the trip takes about 3 to 4 hours, with operators typically circling the island before entering the waters where cetaceans are active. Cetacean sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed; voyages may be cancelled during typhoons or the prevailing northeast monsoon season.

How to make the most of your visit

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Landing requires advance reservationThe daily landing quota for Guishan Island is capped; reservations must be made through authorized channels (Tourism Administration, MOTC, or authorized operators). Check the latest regulations before departure.

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Best season for whale watching: April to OctoberSea conditions are relatively stable from late spring through autumn, and cetacean activity is more frequent. In winter the northeast monsoon brings large swells, and some sailings are cancelled — confirm in advance.

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Semi-submarine to observe the underwater hot springsSome operators offer glass-bottomed boats or semi-submarine services so you can observe the hydrothermal vent topography on Guishan Island's eastern side without diving.

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The island trail has significant gradientsSome sections of the circumisland trail are fairly steep; wear sturdy, well-fitting shoes and bring sufficient water — there are no fixed vending machines or food stalls on the island.

Practical information

Getting there and travel time

All boats to Guishan Island depart from Wushi Harbor pier. Purchase tickets through licensed whale-watching or island-landing operators, and confirm the day's sea conditions and any cancellations in advance.
Landing quota regulations and daily limits may change; check the latest announcements from the Tourism Administration, MOTC, or the county government — do not rely on outdated information.

Nearby connections

Wushi Harbor is close to Toucheng town center and Toucheng Old Street, which can be reached on foot or by a short drive after returning from a whale-watching trip.
Waiao Beach and Zhuangwei Sand Dunes are both near Toucheng; a full-day itinerary combining Guishan Island whale-watching with coastal walks can be planned.

Sources: Tourism Administration, MOTC; Wikipedia entry on 'Guishan Island.' Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.

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