Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, is a vibrant and modern metropolis located in the south of the island. Known for its harbor, urban parks, cultural sites, and laid-back vibe, Kaohsiung offers a mix of urban attractions and scenic spots.
Key Attractions of Kaohsiung
- Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum:
- Description: A large Buddhist complex housing an enormous sitting Buddha statue and several museums dedicated to Buddhist art and culture.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the complex is expansive. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the museum and temples.
- Lotus Pond:
- Description: Famous for its colorful temples and pagodas, including the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where you can walk inside the dragon’s mouth for good luck.
- Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the pond and the illuminated temples.
- Liuhe Night Market:
- Description: One of the most famous night markets in Kaohsiung, offering a wide variety of local street food like seafood, stinky tofu, and papaya milk.
- Tips: Arrive hungry! Bring cash as most vendors don’t accept cards. It’s best to visit after 6 PM when the market is fully operational.
- Pier-2 Art Center:
- Description: A creative space located at Kaohsiung’s harbor featuring contemporary art exhibitions, sculptures, street art, and cafes.
- Tips: Explore the area on foot or rent a bike. The installations and exhibits change frequently, so there’s always something new to see.
- Cijin Island:
- Description: A short ferry ride from Kaohsiung Harbor, Cijin Island offers beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and the Cihou Lighthouse, which provides panoramic views of the city and ocean.
- Tips: Rent a bike to explore the island and enjoy the coastal breeze. Visit the seafood restaurants for fresh local catches.
- Kaohsiung 85 Sky Tower:
- Description: A skyscraper offering stunning panoramic views of the city, harbor, and coastline from its observation deck on the 74th floor.
- Tips: Visit on a clear day for the best views, and go at sunset or nighttime for a magical experience.
- Central Park:
- Description: A beautiful green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. It offers ponds, sculptures, and relaxing spots to unwind.
- Tips: Great for a morning stroll before heading off to explore the rest of the city.
- Love River:
- Description: A scenic river that runs through the city, lined with cafes, parks, and pedestrian paths. Popular for evening boat rides and riverside walks.
- Tips: Take a boat tour at night to see the city lights reflecting on the water.
General Tips
- Transportation: Kaohsiung has an efficient metro system (KMRT), and buses are frequent. You can also rent bikes or use the city’s public bike-sharing system.
- Weather: Kaohsiung has a tropical climate, so it’s warm year-round. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
- Language: While English is less common than in Taipei, most major tourist spots have English signs. Learning basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful.
Kaohsiung is a lively, welcoming city that combines modern urban attractions with historical sites and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for travelers.
