2025 Turtle Island Travel Guide: Whale Watching, Hiking & Milk Lake Exploration
Posted on 02 March 2025
Guishan Island is one of the most mysterious and captivating offshore islands in northeastern Taiwan, known for its volcanic terrain, unique Milk Lake, rich marine ecology, and whale-watching activities.
This article will guide you through Guishan Island's opening hours and application process, tourist attractions, the Lakeside Trail hike, the dreamy Milk Lake, the challenge of 401 Heights, andwhale-watching tours.
If you're planning an unforgettable trip to Guishan Island in 2025, be sure to save this comprehensive guide!
【Guishan Island's access and application details】
Guishan Island is a restricted area, open for landing from March 1 to November 30 each year, daily from 09:00 to 17:00.Guishan Island Photo By abc33443214Landing Application Time: Online applications for same-day landing close at 2:30 PM.
Online tour booking: NT$1,000–NT$2,000 (varies by tour package and ferry operator).
Transportation:
Take a train to Toucheng Station, then transfer to Kuo-Kuang Bus (Green 18, Zhuanwei Dune Line) or Kamalan Bus (Yilan Jin-Hao-Xing 131).
Get off at Wushi Harbor Transit Station and take a ferry to Guishan Island.
Guishan Island Travel Itinerary & Attractions
Whale-Watching Tour
Guishan Island, influenced by the Kuroshio Current, attracts a large number of whales and dolphins. The best whale-watching season is from April to September.
A boat tour offers stunning ocean views and a close-up experience with marine life, with onboard guides providing ecological insights.
Guishan Island emily_chou.23-3
Milk Lake
Milk Lake is one of Guishan Island’s most iconic attractions. Due to volcanic geothermal activity and sulfur interactions, the lake's water takes on a dreamy milky-white hue, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere.
Milk Lake Photo By lovelyhan0119
Lakeside Trail Hike
The Guishan Island Lakeside Trail is an easy and scenic 650-meter path. A full loop takes about 20 minutes, offering beautiful island views along the way.
Guishan Island Photo By lovelyhan0119
Challenge 401 Heights
401 Heights is the highest point on Guishan Island, featuring a 1.8 km trail with 1,706 steps, requiring 2.5 to 3 hoursfor a round trip. This challenging hike rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of Guishan Island and the Pacific Ocean.
Note: Daily visitor limit: 100 people (Lottery-based application required).
Guishan Island Photo By 0oouchi
Plan your Guishan Island adventure for a one-of-a-kind experience! Book in advance to ensure a smooth trip and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.