Green Island & Orchid Island
Taiwan's Tropical Islands
Off the east coast lie two small islands that are among Taiwan's best-kept secrets: Green Island (綠島, Lüdao) and Orchid Island (蘭嶼, Lanyu). Those who make it here are rewarded with an island experience that feels like a parallel universe to the rest of Taiwan.
Green Island (綠島)
A diver's paradise, just 50 minutes by ferry from Taitung. The coral reefs are among Taiwan's best-preserved, with visibility up to 40 meters and an underwater world full of tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. The special feature: Zhaori Hot Spring — one of only three saltwater hot springs by the sea in the world (besides Sicily and Japan). Bathe at night while the stars shine over the Pacific. The entire island can be circumnavigated by scooter in 40 minutes. Accommodations: simple guesthouses from 800 TWD (24€).
The dark side: Green Island was once Taiwan's most notorious political prison island — the Green Island Human Rights Memorial commemorates the thousands of political prisoners of the White Terror era (1949–1987). A moving place.
Orchid Island (蘭嶼)
The most remote and original island of Taiwan — home to the Tao (Yami), an indigenous group that has preserved the Austronesian culture and its traditions in their purest form. The Tao live in semi-underground stone houses, build hand-carved canoes (Tatala), and celebrate the Flying Fish Festival (March–June), during which the fishing boats are blessed. The island is volcanic, the coast wild, the coral reefs intact. Orchid Island is not a resort destination, but an authentic cultural experience — respectful behavior is important.
Getting there: Ferry from Taitung (2.5h) or flight (30 min., small propeller plane). Best time: April–September.
