Orchid Island

Orchid Island

The island is located in Lanyu Township, Taitung County, and is the largest high-altitude offshore island in Taiwan. It was formerly known as "Red Head Island" because the hill at the northwestern tip of the island, when bathed in the sunset, resembles a red human head. Later, due to the island’s abundance of orchids, it was renamed "Lanyu." Like Green Island, it is a volcanic island formed by undersea volcanic eruptions where magma solidified upon contact with seawater. The island features a hot, humid, and rainy climate, with dense forests in the mountainous areas and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The surrounding waters are covered with coral reefs, and the Kuroshio Current flows nearby, attracting frequent fish migrations, making it a paradise for fishing and diving.

Years of weathering and seawater erosion have created numerous uniquely shaped rock formations on Orchid Island, such as Crocodile Rock, Tank Rock, Jade Maiden Rock, Hen Rock, Frog Rock, Twin Lions Rock, Helmet Rock, Elephant Trunk Rock, and Dragon Head Rock—perfect spots for visitors to take photos. Additionally, Langdao Village on the island is also highly popular among tourists. Here, visitors can admire traditional underground Amis bamboo houses and other structures showcasing the village’s distinctive traditional architectural style, offering a glimpse into the area’s unique cultural heritage.

Orchid Island

Must-visit reason: Taiwan’s largest high-altitude offshore island