TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Keelung City Government announced that Keelung Islet has opened to visitors and will remain accessible through Oct. 31.
Keelung Islet, located about four kilometers northeast of Keelung Port, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty. The island is closed to visitors annually from November to March to maintain the ecosystem, per CNA.
Tsai Fu-ning (蔡馥嚀), an official from the city's economic affairs department, said the island is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a daily limit of 1,200 visitors. The itinerary includes coastal trails with views of volcanic geology, coastal erosion, and wild lilies.
Tsai said visitors can enjoy views of Taiwan’s north coast along the island’s hiking trail. Taiwan’s first solar-powered lighthouse, an octagonal black-and-white structure, is located at the summit.
Last year, around 80,000 tourists visited Keelung Islet. Tours to the island depart from the city’s Bisha Fishing Port. Visitors must book tours in advance.
Keelung's coastal conservation area near Badouzi Chaojing Park is also open for recreational activities through Oct. 31. Scuba diving is limited to 200 visitors on weekdays and 400 on weekends.
Tsai said scuba divers must have valid domestic or international diving certifications. Land activities, guided by city tour guides, are limited to 200 participants daily.
The conservation area prohibits boat operations and the collection of aquatic plants and animals, Tsai added. Violators will be fined between NT$30,000 (US$952) and NT$150,000 under the Fisheries Act.
The city government will continue to promote marine conservation activities this year, including marine biology camps, aquatic experiences, and ocean conservation courses.
Guishan Island in Yilan is open annually from March, with a daily limit of about 1,800 visitors. It is closed to the public from December to February.
Typhoon Kong-rey, which struck Taiwan in October, caused severe damage to Guishan Island. The Tourism Administration completed restoration after four months of repairs.
