Green Island
written by alice26992
on May 9th, 2008
(0 votes)
As we approached the angular features of the island set against gunmetal gray skies, I tried to think about what to expect. I realized I knew little of the island, save that it was famous as a prison, had good diving, and had hot springs on the beach!
Soon we emerged from the choppy black-blue swell, and arrived at Nanliao Fishing Harbor. Immediately I was besieged by moped touts, one of who led me to a rental machine (usual price NT$400-500 for a full day). Not especially new, but cheap and it ran. Other options for getting around the island include a local bus service, taxi (about NT$700 for a round trip), or if you have time, on foot.
After filling the scooter with gas and my stomach with noodles, I hit the road-the only road. I followed it for all of its 17 kilometers, passing the tiny airport, and was struck by how the island lives up to its name. Greenness was everywhere; luxuriant foliage of every verdant hue surrounded me. Even the water looked green.
Soon I was past the lighthouse and open to the rugged ocean scenery. From here Green Island is more akin to parts of Iceland than Taiwan. The vivid green of the striated uplands tumbled down to craggy black volcanic rocks where waves cascaded against the shoreline. The road moved in and up a little and, leaving the bike, I clambered along a wooden path to a pavilion. From this promontory I could see dramatic headlands and bays in both directions.
Boat tickets are typically NT$800 return; services are frequent. Each day, there are several flights from Taitung (NT$602 one-way)
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