Exploring Kaohsiung City Taiwan: A Journey into Southern Beauty

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Taiwan’s Kaohsiung City: Discovering the Rich Treasure of the South

Introduction:

Kaohsiung City, located away on Taiwan’s southwest coast, is an unique jewel that skillfully combines technological marvels, the natural beauty of the region, and the rich cultural legacy of Southern Taiwan. Beyond its waterfront location and port the atmosphere, Kaohsiung is home to a number of popular tourist destinations, including Lotus Pond and Fo Guang Shan Monastery. We will go around Kaohsiung’s lively streets in this in-depth investigation, revealing the city’s hidden treasures and losing ourselves in the distinct charm that characterizes this southern metropolis.

If you believe you’ve had enough city time on your journey, don’t avoid Kaohsiung because it’s really different from Taipei! The title persisted for centuries. The Takao area of Kyoto is the reason behind the choice of characters made by the Japanese people inside in 1920. Kaohsiung’s center during the Qing Dynasty was Fongshan, which is now close to Lotus Pond and the Zuoying HSR station. There are still some remnants of the old city walls and ruins there. Kaohsiung Port was initially opened in the 1680s, but the Japanese largened it during their colonial control.

These characters are still in use today, although in Mandarin they are called “Gaoxiong.” The Wade-Giles the romanization scheme, which was once popular in Taiwan, is the source of the spelling “Kaohsiung.”

During the Japanese withdrawal from substances, Kaohsiung county and Kaohsiung city were established by the KMT. The 2010 merger of Kaohsiung city and county resulted in “Kaohsiung city” being a vast region that stretches up into the Central Mountain Range, similar to what happened to Taoyuan, Taichung, and Tainan. Having 2.7 million residents, it is Taiwan’s third-largest city after Taichung and New Taipei City.

In 2006, Zuoying Station was the first stop on Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (HSR) line. 2008 saw the opening of the KMRT, while 2015 saw the opening of the Circular Light Rail (LRT). When finished (which is quickly approaching), it will encircle the city.

How to Travel to Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung International Airport, located south of Kaoshiung city center, is home to an increasing number of international aircraft. The red KMRT line runs from the airport into the city. Get the best ticket prices here and check out my article on how to locate the cheapest flights to Kaohsiung and other Taiwanese locations.

From Taipei, the High Speed Rail (HSR) travels to Zuoying Station, located north of Kaohsiung’s city center, in about two hours. It is also connected to the city core by the KMRT red line. Purchase cheap HSR tickets on Klook and follow my easy booking instructions.

If you use the ordinary (TRA) train, it will cost half as much as the HSR and take anywhere from 3 hours 45 minutes to 5 hours from Taipei, depending on the train. You can go to the conveniently placed city center Kaohsiung Station. For further details, see my post on how to purchase rail tickets in Taiwan.

Taitung and Hualien, as well as other east coast sites, can only be reached by the TRA train.

There are two KMRT lines in Kaohsiung. While the Orange Line runs east to west, the Red Line runs north to south. One stop south of Kaohsiung Station, where the TRA trains stop, they meet at Formosa Boulevard Station. Along with the well-known Dome of Light art work, Formosa Boulevard Station is also home to the Liuhe Night Market.

The Kenting Express Line Bus leaves every 2.5 hours from Zuoying HSR Station to Kenting National Park. Purchase your tickets from this link.

Boats to Cijin Island leave from Kaohsiung’s Gushan Ferry Pier. Bus 9127D leaves from Zuoying Station to Tungliu Line Wharf (琉線碼頭站), where you may board a ferry to Xiaoliuqiu Island in Pingtung county. On the south side of Kaohsiung Station, shared taxis are also available. Alternatively, you can take a solo cab there for TWD 1200.

Use your EasyCard, which you can purchase online, to ride the KMRT/Light Rail or the Cijin boat. Essentially the same, the iPass issued by Kaohsiung city may be used throughout the nation.

Best Tours in Kaohsiung

Top attractions including Lotus Pond, Fo Guang Shan, Tienliao Moon World, and Pier 2 Art Center are included in this Kaohsiung Classics trip. This truly represents Kaohsiung at its best in a single day. In Kaohsiung, hire a private driver to set your own timetable. A romantic way to see the city is by night on a boat or gondola ride down the Love River.

How to Make an Itinerary for Kaohsiung

I suggest spending at least 3 full days exploring Kaohsiung.

Day 1: Coastal Adventure

Morning:

Go to Cijin Island by ferry. See the Cijin Lighthouse and walk along Cijin Old Street.

In the afternoon:

Chill on Cijin Beach while enjoying seafood from neighborhood stands. Explore the modern art installations at the Pier-2 Art Center.

Evening:

Take in the colorful environment of Liuhe Night Market. Enjoy in street cuisine and take in the vibrant environment of the night markets.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Morning:

Travel to the Buddha Museum in Fo Guang Shan. Explore over the grounds and pay homage to the magnificent Buddha statue.

Later in the afternoon:

Visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas by going to Lotus Pond. Explore the surrounding temples and take a stroll around the pond.

Evening:

Enjoy supper at a neighborhood restaurant close to Lotus Pond. Walk slowly down Love River and take in the sights and sounds of the evening.

Day 3: Relaxing with nature

Morning:

Drive or go for a morning climb up Shoushan, often known as Monkey Mountain. Experience macaque monkeys and take in expansive vistas of Kaohsiung.

In the afternoon:

Go to Sizihwan to see a gorgeous sunset. Discover the ancient cultural village of Hamasen Railway.

Evening:

Eat an enjoyable meal at a Sizihwan restaurant by the sea. Enjoy your final evening in the city while you reminisce about your travels in Kaohsiung.

Some Tips:

When planning your schedule, give yourself room for improvisation. To move about the city, take into account choices including the subway, buses, taxis, and rental bikes. Make sure to check the attraction’s hours of operation and admission prices ahead of time. Allow time for rest as well as relaxation to prevent fatigue when traveling.

Apartments in Kaohsiung

The area near Kaohsiung Station is the most convenient spot to stay in Kaohsiung. I suggest the Kindness Hotel, which has an excellent location near the station (see Booking / Agoda). The best-rated hostel in the area is Ahiruyah Guesthouse (see Booking / Agoda).

Kaohsiung’s most luxurious hotels are located in the downtown area, close to the famous 85 Sky Tower. These include TAI Urban Resort (see Booking / Agoda), Silks Club Kaohsiung (see Booking / Agoda), and Intercontinental Kaohsiung (see Booking / Agoda). The latter has an exceptional vista from its pool.

Top Activities in Kaohsiung

1. Visit the Lotus Pond

Discover the beautiful Lotus Pond, a large created by humans lake surrounding by pagodas and temples. The famous Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are a must-see. For good luck, enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth.

2. Island of Cijin:

Go by ferry to Cijin Island, which is well-known for its seafood markets, stunning beaches, and Cijin Wind Turbine Park. Savor some fresh seafood from the neighborhood vendors and take a leisurely bike ride along the shore.

3. The Buddha Museum of Fo Guang Shan:

Check out the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, one of Taiwan’s biggest Buddhist establishments. Discover the imposing Buddha statue—one of the highest in the world—as well as the great halls and pagodas.

4. River of Love:

Take a stroll across the lovely Love River, which flows right through the center of Kaohsiung. Enjoy the city lights from a boat ride in the evening, or just unwind at the cafés along the river.

5. The Pier-2 Art Center:

Take in the arts at Kaohsiung’s Pier-2 Art Center, a center of culture and the arts. There are galleries, street art, and installations of modern art in the region.

6. Formosa Boulevard Station’s Dome of Light:

Take in the splendor of Formosa Boulevard Station’s Dome of Light, one of the biggest public art projects in the world. The metro system in the city is made more beautiful by this exquisite piece of glass art.

7. Night Market in Liuhe:

Visiting Liuhe Night Market to enjoy the colorful atmosphere and a variety of street dish. Experience local favorites including grilled squid, oyster omelets, and the well-known bubble tea from Taiwan.

8. Sunset in Sizihwan:

Visit the town of Sizihwan (Xiziwan) to see an amazing sunset. The region gives a stunning view of the sea with the famous Castle in the Sea (Cihou Fort) in the background.

9. The Museum of Fine Arts in Kaohsiung:

Experience both old and modern art at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. The museum organizes a number of exhibitions all year long and includes works by Taiwanese and foreign artists.

10. Taroko Park:

Taroko Park is a shopping center and amusement park that offers entertainment for the whole family. It is an excellent spot for both adults and children to visit because it has an indoor playground, roller coasters, and a ferris wheel.

11. The Monkey Mountain, or Shoushan:

To see wide views of Kaohsiung, drive or hike to Shoushan, also known as Monkey Mountain. Explore historical locations like the Martyrs’ Shrine and get up close to personal with friendly macaque monkeys.

12. The Cultural Village of Hamasen Railway:

Explore the famed Hamasen Railway Cultural Village, which continues to preserve its architecture from the Japanese era. Discover the colorful street art and the maritime past of Kaohsiung.

Food Options in Kaohsiung

Much like the rest of Taiwan, Kaohsiung is well known for its wide variety of culinary options and lively street food scene. Here are some foods and dining experiences that absolutely must have when exploring Kaohsiung:

Gua Bao (Taiwanese Pork Belly Buns):

The iconic food scene of Taiwan includes fluffy steamed buns filled with juicy braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts. Look for gua bao sellers in a nearby restaurant or night market.

Cijin Island Seafood:

Fresh seafood, such as grilled squid, shrimp, crab, and oysters, is the specialty of Cijin Island. For a unique dining experience, check out the seafood providers on Cijin Old Street or have dinner at one of the restaurant by the water on the island.

Oyster Omelet (O-a-chian)

A combination of fresh oysters, eggs, tapioca starch, and veggies are pan-fried to perfection and served with a sweet and salty sauce in the famous Taiwanese snack known as oyster omelets. This treat may be found in night markets such as Liuhe Night Market.

Beef Noodle Soup (Niu Rou Mian):

Enjoy Taiwan’s famous beef noodle soup’s rich, savory broth, tender beef pieces, and chewy noodles. In Kaohsiung, look for local noodle businesses or beef noodle stands to enjoy a warm bowl of this well-known meal.

Braised foods

The most well-known night market in Kaohsiung among visitors is Liuhe Night Market (六合夜市), which is easily accessible and has little traffic. This papaya milk stand and this luwei (braised foods) stand are well-known stands.

Bubble Tea (Boba Tea):

Bubble tea originated in Taiwan, and Kaohsiung is home to a large number of businesses selling a wide selection of flavors and toppings. Enjoy this cool cocktail ready with chewy tapioca pearls, milk, and tea.

Coffin Bread (Guandu Bao):

Coffin bread is a large slab of bread filled with a delicious, creamy stew that is specific to Tainan but is also sold in Kaohsiung. This filling and substantial snack is ideal for chilly nights.

Shaved Ice (Bao Bing):

Have a cool dish of shaved ice with a variety of delicious toppings, such condensed milk, sweet beans, fresh fruit, and grass jelly, to top it all off. In Kaohsiung, look for places that sell shaved ice for a delectable dessert choice.

Stinky Tofu (Chou Dou Fu):

Stinky tofu, fermented tofu that has been deep-fried to a crispy perfection, is a pungent yet tasty snack. Savor it with pickled veggies and a fiery sauce for a taste of real Taiwanese street cuisine.

Events in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a vibrant city in southern Taiwan that holds a range of events all year long, from international exhibits to sporting tournaments and cultural festivals. The following were a few significant Kaohsiung events:

Lantern Festival:

The Lantern Festival, which takes place during 15th day of the first lunar month, signals the conclusion of the Lunar New Year festivities. Kaohsiung’s Lantern Festival attracts tourists from near and far with its eye-catching lantern displays, cultural events, and traditional activities.

Dragon Boat Festival:

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as the Duanwu Festival, is held in June to honor the life and demise of the classical Chinese poet Qu Yuan. Along the Love River in Kaohsiung, there are thrilling dragon boat races that are followed by vibrant celebrations and Chinese rice dumplings called zongzi.

International Film Festival of Kaohsiung:

The Kaohsiung International Film Festival, one of Asia’s top film festivals, offers a wide range of domestic and foreign films, including feature films, documentaries, and shorts. In October, movie buffs congregate in Kaohsiung for screenings, seminars, and conversations.

Taiwan International Boat Exhibition:

Asia’s largest boat and yacht show, the Taiwan International Boat Show takes place every two years at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center. Attracting both industry professionals and amateurs, the event showcases the newest maritime technology together with luxurious boats, water sports equipment, and marine leisure items.

Festival de Jazz Kaohsiung:

Every October, live music lovers go to Kaohsiung for the Kaohsiung Jazz Festival, which celebrates live music, performances, and cross-cultural exchange. A lively environment of music and entertainment is created by local and worldwide jazz performers playing at several locations across the city throughout the festival.

Kaohsiung International Food Show:

Every year, a broad variety of regional and global cuisines, culinary trends, and food items are displayed at the Kaohsiung International Food Show, which attracts food enthusiasts. Indulge in delicious treats, see chefs in action, and peruse exhibitions focused on food.

Kaohsiung Lantern Festival:

Kaohsiung holds its own Lantern Festival celebration in addition to the national one, which features stunning lantern displays, cultural performances, and themed activities. The event, which is a highlight for both people and visitors, is held at several sites across the city.

Taiwan Cycling Festival:

The Taiwan Cycling Festival, an annual event that promotes cycling tourism and outdoor recreation, attracts both professional and hobbyist cyclists. Road racing, mountain riding, and leisure rides may all be held against the picturesque background of Kaohsiung’s bike routes and landscapes.

Kaohsiung Design Festival:

Through exhibitions, workshops, and interactive installations, the Kaohsiung Design Festival showcases the creative thinking and originality of regional designers while highlighting the city’s growing design culture. Together, professionals from the industry and lovers of design study the most recent advances in fashion, architecture, graphic design, and other fields.

Festival of Music in Kaohsiung:

At the Kaohsiung Music Festival, a series of events with a varied roster of local and international performers spanning several genres, music lovers enjoy live performances and outdoor concerts. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the event, with genres ranging from pop and rock to indie and classical.

These events support Kaohsiung’s flourishing cultural scene and provide residents and guests alike the chance to partake in exciting events, celebrate customs, and take in the dynamic environment of the city all year long.