Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Lüdao Township is a small settlement on volcanic Green Island, which lies just off the east coast of Taiwan. It once served as a penal colony for political prisoners but has recently become a tourist hotspot, captivating visitors with its stunning coastal scenery, relaxing hot springs and colourful coral reefs.
Things to do in Ludao
Enjoy a scenic drive along the 18-kilometre road that rings Green Island and takes in most of its sights. Beginning in Lüdao Township, you can stop to experience the underwater marine life of the Chaikou Snorkelling Area, then learn about the political dissidents who were imprisoned during Taiwan’s martial law period at the Green Island White Terror Memorial Park.
Soak up Pacific Ocean views from the dramatically-positioned Little Great Wall and see the aptly-named Pekingese Dog Rock, then continue to the Zhaori Hot Springs at the southeastern tip of Green Island. It’s one of only three saltwater hot springs in the world, with several open-air and terrace pools that are fed by lava-heated water ranging in temperature from 60 to 70 degrees Celsius.
Dominating the northwestern tip of Green Island is the Lüdao Lighthouse, a 33-metre-high whitewashed tower that was constructed in 1938. It offers sweeping ocean views, with the surrounding coastline particularly photogenic at sunset and in the spring when the fields of wild lilies are in bloom.
Getting around Ludao
With regular flights to Taitung, Lüdao Airport is the main gateway to Lüdao Township and is located just five minutes’ drive from its centre. Regular ferries connect from Taitung to the Nan-liao Fishing Harbor, which is a 10-minute drive from Lüdao Township. Having your own scooter is the best way of exploring Green Island.