Taiwan sits where the Philippine Sea and Eurasian plates interact, producing a landscape shaped by tectonics, hot springs and volcanic features onshore and offshore. That geological setting influences local hazards, geothermal resources and the islands people live near.
There are 3 Active Volcanoes in Taiwan, ranging from Green Island (Lyudao) to the Tatun Volcano Group. The entries are presented with Location (county; lat,lon),Elevation (m),Activity (last eruption; monitoring) — you’ll find below.
Are these volcanoes safe to visit?
Safety depends on the specific site and current activity: some areas are open for tourism with clear trails and signage, while others are restricted when monitoring shows unrest. Always check local advisories, follow park rules, and avoid fumaroles or unstable ground; guided visits and up-to-date notices from authorities are the best way to stay safe.
How are Taiwan’s active volcanoes monitored and what recent activity is reported?
Monitoring is performed by national and academic agencies using seismic networks, gas measurements, ground deformation and satellite data. Most recent activity has been hydrothermal or fumarolic rather than frequent magmatic eruptions; official agencies publish alerts and status updates, so consult them for current conditions.
Active Volcanoes in Taiwan
| Name | Location (county; lat,lon) | Elevation (m) | Activity (last eruption; monitoring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tatun Volcano Group | Taipei City/New Taipei City; 25.17,121.53 | 1,120 | Holocene; monitored by Academia Sinica & CWB, fumaroles and seismic unrest |
| Guishan (Turtle) Island | Yilan County; 24.86,121.96 | 401 | 1785 (historic); monitored by CWB, fumaroles & submarine vents |
| Green Island (Lyudao) | Taitung County; 22.66,121.48 | 281 | Holocene; limited monitoring, hot springs & fumarolic activity |
Images and Descriptions
Tatun Volcano Group
Tatun Volcano Group north of Taipei includes Qixing and Datun peaks. It shows Holocene volcanism, persistent fumaroles and recurrent seismic swarms. Monitored by Academia Sinica and Taiwan CWB. Hazards include gas emissions and landslides; many parts are visitable via Yangmingshan trails, some areas restricted.
Guishan (Turtle) Island
Guishan (Turtle) Island is an offshore volcanic island east of Yilan with recorded historical eruptions and ongoing hydrothermal activity. It’s monitored by Taiwan’s authorities; tourist boat visits are allowed under permit. Hazards include gas emissions, seismicity and rare submarine eruptions.
Green Island (Lyudao)
Green Island is a small volcanic island with Holocene lava domes, frequent hot springs and fumarolic activity. It’s a popular dive and hot-spring destination with regular ferries and flights. Hazards are localized gas emissions and unstable cliffs; monitoring is less comprehensive than mainland sites.
