Guishan Island Ecotourism Introduction
A remote island in the Pacific Ocean, shrouded in a veil of white mist, exudes a mysterious atmosphere. In the past, it could only be admired from afar, filled with curiosity and imagination. Now, visitors can take a boat to explore the harmonious beauty of Guishan Island. Exploration of the Island This small island is actually full of charm, rich in both ecology and cultural heritage. The only spiritual center for the islanders, Putuo Rock, originally known as Gonglan Palace, is now dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva. At the other end of Turtle Tail Lake, there stands a Guanyin statue riding a dragon, guarding the beings by the lakeside. The lakeside path around Turtle Tail Lake features the cold spring known as "the spring of life" from Guishan Island, as well as Taiwan's only naturally growing native sago palm forest, along with diverse plant and animal life. On the Maoshi Path, a tree with a diameter exceeding 80 centimeters is regarded by locals as a sacred tree; the former site of the highest school on the island, the original Guishan Elementary School, and the famous landmark "Islander Alone Is Not Alone" are also must-visit spots. Military tunnels witness the historical presence of troops, providing a cool refuge for travelers in the hot summer. At the end of the tunnel lies an abandoned fortress, with numerous sound-dampening cones on the ceiling reflecting the military atmosphere of the past, while the view opens up to a stunning dreamlike blue sea. A brief island visit offers a delightful immersion in history, culture, and nature. 401 Highland Summit Challenge The highest point of Guishan Island is actually only 398 meters, plus the 3-meter high fort at the summit, making it truly "401 Highland." Once a military stronghold, it has now become an essential trail for enjoying the island's ecological beauty. However, to reach the top for the view, one must first traverse the stone steps, totaling about 1,300 meters with 1,700 steps, which takes about an hour. It is recommended to ascend slowly to observe the natural ecology, as the diverse organisms and forest scenery are quite rich, alongside the precious low-altitude virgin forests. Upon reaching the summit, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the island's scenery, appreciating the fantastic vista of Turtle Head and Turtle Tail, and on clear days, the beautiful coastal scenery of the Northeast Coast can also be seen. Island Visit Information Guishan Island is open from March 1 to November 30, daily from 09:00 to 17:00. However, during June, July, August, and September, the schedule may adjust to 08:30 to 17:30, depending on weather conditions; access may be prohibited in adverse weather. It is open to the general public for sightseeing on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to Sundays. Wednesdays are reserved for outdoor nature education or ecological studies by schools and academic institutions, assisting in environmental monitoring on the island. Application Method for Island Visit: General tourist groups must apply online 3 to 20 days before their scheduled visit by entering the relevant application information as directed on the website. Important Notes for Island Visit: Visitors must be accompanied by a professional guide while on the island. No accommodation is provided on the island, so it is advised to bring your own food and water. Please refrain from littering or creating waste on the island, and items found on the island should not be taken without permission.
