Green Island, Taiwan

Green Island (Lǜdǎo) is a small volcanic island off Taiwan’s eastern coast, administered by Taitung County. It is known for its coastal marine environment and a handful of distinctive sites on a compact land area.

Green Island was used as a penal location during the mid-20th century; the former prison complex has been preserved as a museum and human rights site. Over time the island’s economy shifted toward tourism focused on its natural marine resources.

The island sits in the Pacific Ocean off Taiwan’s southeast coast, southeast of Taitung City. It is small and rocky with a low population and is reached by regular ferry services and occasional flights from the Taiwanese mainland.

• Getting around: Ferries and a small airport connect the island to Taitung on Taiwan's east coast, and the island is compact enough to explore by scooter or bicycle.
• Marine recreation: The surrounding waters are known for coral reefs and clear conditions that make the area popular for diving and snorkeling.

What to See #

• Zhaori Hot Spring: A natural saltwater hot spring on the shore of the island, notable because marine hot springs are uncommon; pools and simple facilities are open to visitors.
• Former prison and memorial: A former penal complex from Taiwan's mid-20th-century period of political imprisonment has been preserved and converted into a museum and memorial site focused on human rights history.
• Lighthouse and viewpoints: A small lighthouse and rugged coastal viewpoints provide popular photo spots and views across the Pacific Ocean; the island is compact and walkable between sites.