Melo Villareal
Best Tourist Attractions and Things to do in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Kaohsiung, the second-largest city on the island historically known as Isla Formosa, sits along Taiwan’s southwestern coast and has long been known as a bustling port and primary trading gateway. Although it has built its reputation as an industrial powerhouse, the City Government has successfully transformed Kaohsiung into a vibrant and attractive tourist destination featuring scenic waterfronts, green parks, cultural landmarks, and lively night markets.
Best Things to do in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
How to Get There
Getting to Kaohsiung requires knowing your starting point, so here are detailed instructions from the most common departure locations in Taiwan.
From Taipei:
- The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is the fastest option—go to Taipei Main Station, purchase tickets at the counter, automated machines, or book online in advance at the THSR website or through convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
- Board a southbound train to Zuoying Station (left exit takes you to Kaohsiung’s northern district), with trains running approximately every 15-30 minutes from early morning until late evening, taking 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on whether it’s an express or makes more stops.
- From Zuoying THSR Station, transfer to the Kaohsiung MRT Red Line to reach downtown areas such as the Formosa Boulevard or City Council stations.
- For conventional trains, go to Taipei Railway Station, purchase tickets for Kaohsiung Station (not Zuoying), and choose between express services like Tze-Chiang that take about 4-4.5 hours or slower Chu-Kuang trains taking 5-6 hours.
- For buses, head to Taipei Bus Station (connected to Taipei Main Station), buy tickets from operators such as Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport, and board buses to Kaohsiung, which take about 4.5-5 hours with rest stops along the way.
From Alishan:
- First, take the Chiayi-Alishan bus back down to Chiayi, which takes about 2.5 hours with regular departures from Alishan bus station (check schedules in advance as they’re less frequent in the afternoon).
- Once in Chiayi, you have two options: take a shuttle bus or taxi to Chiayi THSR Station (about 15-20 minutes) and catch the high-speed rail to Zuoying (approximately 40 minutes), or take a local bus or walk to Chiayi Railway Station and board a southbound conventional train to Kaohsiung Station (about 2-3 hours depending on train type).
- The high-speed rail option is faster but requires an extra transfer, while the conventional train is more direct from the city center.
From Taichung:
- Take the THSR from Taichung Station to Zuoying (about 45-60 minutes) or conventional trains from Taichung Railway Station to Kaohsiung Station (about 2-3 hours).
- Buses also run between Taichung and Kaohsiung, taking roughly 3 hours.
From Tainan:
The high-speed rail from Tainan Station to Zuoying takes 15-20 minutes; conventional trains take 30-60 minutes, depending on the service; or you can take local buses, which take about 1-1.5 hours.
By Air:
Kaohsiung International Airport offers domestic flights from Taipei Songshan Airport (about 1 hour) and international connections to major Asian cities. From the airport, take the MRT Red Line directly into the city center.
Important Tips:
Book THSR tickets online in advance for early-bird discounts of up to 35%, especially on weekends and holidays when trains fill up quickly. If using conventional trains, reserve seats for long journeys to ensure comfort.
Once you arrive at either Zuoying THSR Station or Kaohsiung Railway Station, the MRT system is easy to navigate, with English signage. Purchase an iPass or EasyCard rechargeable transit card for convenient travel on the metro, buses, and even at convenience stores.
If arriving at Zuoying, the Red Line connects directly to major attractions, while Kaohsiung Railway Station is on the Red Line at Kaohsiung Main Station, making onward travel straightforward.
Here are some of the top things to do in Kaohsiung:
Visit Dashu Old Railway Sky Bridge
The Dashu Old Railway Sky Bridge (Dashu Jiutie Qiao, or Dashu Old Iron Bridge) is a historic railway bridge in Dashu District, Kaohsiung, that has been converted into a unique pedestrian walkway and popular tourist attraction.
Originally built in 1913 during the Japanese colonial period, this impressive steel truss bridge spans approximately 1.5 kilometers across the Gaoping River (also called Kaoping River), making it one of the longest pedestrian bridges in Taiwan. The bridge was part of the Pingtung railway line and served trains for nearly 75 years until it was decommissioned in 1987, when a new railway bridge was constructed alongside it.
After years of neglect, it was restored and reopened as a scenic walkway in 2010, preserving its historic industrial architecture with the original steel framework and riveted construction visible throughout. Walking across the bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of the wide Gaoping River, surrounding wetlands that attract migratory birds, and distant mountains, making it particularly popular during sunset when golden light bathes the landscape.
The bridge park area at both ends features interpretive displays about the bridge’s history, rest areas, and bicycle paths, as it’s part of a larger cycling route along the river. The Dashu end has a small visitor center and sometimes hosts cultural events and markets.
It’s easily accessible by car or scooter, though reaching it by public transportation requires some planning with local buses from Kaohsiung city, making it more of a destination for those with private transportation or joining organized tours exploring southern Taiwan’s historic sites.
Go sightseeing at the Love River.
The Love River is one of Kaohsiung’s most iconic attractions and a must-visit, showcasing the city’s successful urban transformation. This picturesque waterway flows through the heart of Kaohsiung, lined with beautifully landscaped walkways, cafes, restaurants, and public art installations that create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.
Taking a leisurely boat cruise along the river offers unique perspectives of the city’s skyline and historic districts, especially magical during the evening when colorful lights illuminate the bridges and waterfront. The riverside promenade is perfect for strolling, cycling, or simply sitting and people-watching while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
The area hosts various cultural events, festivals, and the famous Lantern Festival celebrations. Nearby attractions include trendy dining spots, cultural centers, and connections to other key sites via the MRT, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Kaohsiung’s modern, livable character.
Watch the sunset at the Old British Consulate.
The Old British Consulate at Takao, perched atop Shaochuantou (Dagou) Hill overlooking Kaohsiung Harbor, is Taiwan’s oldest surviving Western-style building and a fascinating historical landmark. Built in 1865 during the Qing Dynasty, when Kaohsiung (then called Takao) was opened as a treaty port, this elegant red-brick Victorian structure served as the British consulate residence and office.
The building features distinctive colonial architecture with arched verandas, brick walls, and large windows designed to withstand the tropical climate. After extensive restoration, it now operates as a museum showcasing Kaohsiung’s history as an international port, the era of the tea trade, and the British diplomatic presence in Taiwan.
The hilltop location offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor, the city skyline, and Sizihwan Bay, making it particularly stunning at sunset. The consulate grounds include a charming cafe where visitors can enjoy afternoon tea while soaking in the historic ambiance and spectacular vistas.
Visit Lotus Lake
Lotus Pond (Lianchi Tan or Lotus Lake) is one of Kaohsiung’s top tourist attractions, featuring a spectacular collection of colorful traditional Chinese temples, iconic pagodas, and unique cultural landmarks set against a scenic artificial lake.
The most photographed feature is the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where visitors enter through a dragon’s mouth and exit through a tiger’s mouth for good luck, creating an unforgettable architectural experience with vibrant colors and intricate designs. The lake is surrounded by numerous ornate temples, including the Spring and Autumn Pavilions connected by a zigzag bridge, the Confucius Temple, and various other religious structures that showcase traditional Taiwanese temple architecture at its finest.
The area offers excellent opportunities to walk or cycle along the lake’s perimeter path, taking in reflections of pagodas and temples on the water and creating picture-perfect scenes. Lotus Pond is deeply connected to local religious culture and hosts various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, providing authentic cultural experiences.
The site is easily accessible by MRT, free to visit, and represents a unique concentration of Taiwan’s religious architecture and folk traditions all in one location, making it an essential stop for understanding Kaohsiung’s cultural heritage and capturing iconic Taiwan photographs.
Go meditate in the Yuan Heng Temple
Yuan Heng Temple, located near Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, offers a serene sanctuary for meditation and spiritual reflection away from the city’s bustle. This traditional Buddhist temple features beautiful architecture with ornate details, peaceful courtyards, and tranquil meditation halls where visitors can practice mindfulness and contemplate in quiet surroundings.
The temple’s calm atmosphere, enhanced by the scent of incense and sounds of chanting, creates an ideal environment for inner peace and spiritual connection. Unlike some of the more tourist-focused temples around Lotus Pond, Yuan Heng Temple maintains a more devotional focus, attracting practicing Buddhists and those genuinely seeking a meditation experience.
Visitors are welcome to participate in meditation sessions, observe religious ceremonies, or simply sit quietly in the temple grounds to find respite and clarity. Remember to dress modestly, speak softly, and be respectful of worshippers when visiting this sacred space for your contemplative practice.
Go hiking at Shoushan.
Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) is Kaohsiung’s most accessible natural hiking destination, offering scenic trails, lush forest, and panoramic city views within the city limits. This limestone mountain rises along the western edge of the city and features well-maintained hiking paths suitable for various fitness levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
The hill is famous for its resident Formosan rock macaque monkeys that you’ll likely encounter along the trails—observe from a distance and never feed them, as they can be aggressive. Popular routes lead to viewpoints overlooking Kaohsiung Harbor, the city skyline, and the Taiwan Strait, particularly stunning at sunset.
The trails wind through tropical forest providing shade and a refreshing escape from urban heat. Shoushan also contains historic sites, including old military bunkers and the Shoushan Temple. It’s easily reached by public transportation or taxi, making it perfect for a half-day outdoor adventure without leaving the city.
Visit Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
Located on Wufu 3rd Road in Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, the Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica is commonly known as the Kaohsiung Rose Basilica and as Qianjin Cathedral. It was initially established during the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty.
The church was founded in 1859, the ninth year of the Xianfeng reign, by Spanish missionaries Rev. Terdirand and Rev. Angel Bofurull, O.P., who came to Taiwan to carry out their mission. In 1860, the church was renovated and named the Rose Basilica.
In 1928, the church underwent another renovation, adopting a Renaissance architectural style. It became one of Taiwan’s most representative churches of decorative art, featuring layered decorative lines and beautiful geometric patterns along its arched ceilings. The shrine and holy table on the altar highlight the artistry of traditional Chinese woodcarving. The present-day Kaohsiung Rose Basilica was completed in 1931 and remains a remarkable place to visit.
Visit the busy Kaohsiung Harbor
Kaohsiung Harbor is one of the world’s busiest container ports and a fascinating destination showcasing the city’s maritime heritage and economic importance. The harbor area has been revitalized with waterfront promenades, parks, and cultural spaces that allow visitors to experience this working port up close.
The Pier-2 Art Center, housed in renovated warehouses, features contemporary art installations, galleries, cafes, and creative shops within the harbor district. You can watch massive cargo ships and containers being loaded while strolling along the scenic waterfront walkways. The harbor connects to Love River, and boat tours offer unique perspectives of port operations and the city skyline.
Notable attractions include the historic British Consulate overlooking the harbor, Cijin Island accessible by ferry with beaches and seafood markets, and the impressive Harbor Bridge. The area beautifully blends industrial activity with leisure spaces, demonstrating Kaohsiung’s successful transformation into a modern, livable port city.
Formosa Boulevard MRT Station
Formosa Boulevard Station is Kaohsiung’s most spectacular MRT station and a stunning work of public art that has become a must-see attraction. Located at the intersection of the Red and Orange Lines, this underground station features the magnificent “Dome of Light,” the world’s largest glass installation created by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata.
The breathtaking dome spans 30 meters in diameter. It consists of 4,500 individual glass panels depicting the story of life from birth to death, divided into four themes: water, earth, light, and fire, all rendered in vibrant blues, reds, yellows, and greens. The kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs creates a mesmerizing, cathedral-like atmosphere, transforming a simple transit hub into an artistic masterpiece.
Natural light filtering through during the day and dramatic LED illumination at night offer different viewing experiences. The station also features additional art installations and has become an iconic symbol of Kaohsiung’s commitment to integrating art into everyday urban life, making it worth visiting even if you’re not taking the train.
Visit The Night Markets of Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung’s night markets are vibrant, bustling hubs of local culture where you can experience authentic Taiwanese street food, shopping, and nightlife atmosphere. The most famous is Liuhe Night Market, located in the city center near Formosa Boulevard Station, featuring hundreds of food stalls offering local specialties such as grilled squid, oyster omelets, papaya milk, seafood soup, and the renowned Kaohsiung specialty of seafood dishes.
Ruifeng Night Market is the largest and most popular among locals, featuring numerous food vendors, clothing stalls, carnival games, and a lively young crowd, creating an electric atmosphere. Jin Diamond Night Market offers a more local experience with fewer tourists and authentic southern Taiwan flavors. Kaisyuan Night Market operates on specific days and features a mix of food, clothes, and household goods in a traditional setting.
Wandering these markets provides an immersive sensory experience with sizzling woks, aromatic spices, colorful displays, and friendly vendors. Beyond food, you’ll find affordable clothing, accessories, phone cases, toys, and various trinkets.
Night markets embody Taiwan’s social culture where families and friends gather to eat, shop, and enjoy the evening together, making them essential for understanding local life and sampling the incredible variety of Taiwanese cuisine in a fun, casual environment.
Ten-Drum Ciatou Refinery Cultural Creative Park
Ten-Drum Cijhou Sugar Refinery Cultural Creative Park is a unique industrial heritage site in Kaohsiung transformed into an innovative arts and performance venue. Located in a former Japanese-era sugar refinery, the park preserves historic warehouses, factory structures, and towering chimneys, reimagining them as creative spaces for drumming performances and cultural activities.
The Ten-Drum Art Percussion Group, Taiwan’s premier drumming troupe, uses this atmospheric setting for spectacular shows combining traditional Taiwanese percussion with contemporary performance art. Visitors can explore the industrial ruins, watch thrilling drumming performances, try their hand at drumming workshops, and walk dramatic sky bridges connecting the old structures.
The park features exciting attractions such as transparent skywalks and slides through factory buildings, creating adventurous experiences within the historic setting. This creative reuse of industrial architecture makes it a fascinating destination blending culture, history, and entertainment in Kaohsiung’s outskirts.
Go sightseeing at the Fine Art Museum
The Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts is southern Taiwan’s premier art institution and one of the country’s most prominent contemporary art museums. Opened in 1994, this impressive museum sits within a spacious 41-hectare sculpture park featuring outdoor installations and natural landscapes that create a serene cultural oasis.
The museum’s modern architecture houses extensive galleries displaying Taiwanese contemporary art, international exhibitions, photography, multimedia installations, and rotating special exhibitions that showcase both established and emerging artists. The collection emphasizes modern and contemporary works with a particular focus on Taiwanese artists and Asian art movements. The surrounding park, with its sculptures, ponds, and walking paths, is ideal for combining art appreciation with leisurely outdoor exploration.
The museum regularly hosts educational programs, workshops, and cultural events. Located in the Neiwei Arts District, it’s easily accessible by MRT and reflects Kaohsiung’s commitment to cultural development and artistic expression beyond its industrial port-city identity.
Learn history at Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center is one of Taiwan’s most magnificent Buddhist complexes and a prominent spiritual landmark located in Dashu District, just outside Kaohsiung. The centerpiece is the awe-inspiring 108-meter-tall bronze Great Buddha (Amitabha) statue, which dominates the skyline and can be seen from miles away, making it one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in the world.
The vast memorial complex, completed in 2011, features a grand central avenue lined with eight pagodas on each side, each housing Buddha museums and exhibition halls showcasing Buddhist art, culture, and relics, including the Buddha’s sacred tooth relic. The main memorial hall features intricate shrines, meditation spaces, and impressive religious artwork, with gold accents throughout.
The architecture blends traditional Buddhist design with modern elements, creating a harmonious and deeply peaceful atmosphere across the expansive grounds. Visitors can explore beautiful gardens, reflection ponds, vegetarian restaurants serving temple cuisine, cultural museums, and participate in various Buddhist activities and ceremonies.
The center welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds to learn about Buddhism, experience tranquility, and appreciate the stunning artistry and devotion represented in this monumental project. It’s accessible by bus or car from Kaohsiung, making it a worthwhile half-day or full-day excursion for those interested in religious culture, architecture, or simply seeking a profound spiritual experience.
Visit Kaohsiung Confucius Temple
The Kaohsiung Confucius Temple is an elegant traditional Chinese temple complex dedicated to the great philosopher Confucius, located in the Zuoying District near Lotus Pond. Built in 1976 and designed in the classical Northern Chinese palace style, the temple features graceful architecture with sweeping curved roofs, red pillars, intricate wooden carvings, and beautiful courtyards that create a serene atmosphere for contemplation and learning.
Unlike more ornate Taoist temples, Confucian temples maintain a dignified simplicity that reflects Confucian values of education, respect, and moral cultivation. The complex includes the main worship hall, side halls honoring Confucius’s disciples and ancient scholars, ceremonial gates, and peaceful gardens with ancient trees providing shade and tranquility. The temple serves as both a place of worship and an educational center promoting Confucian philosophy and traditional Chinese culture.
Every year on September 28th, Teacher’s Day in Taiwan, the temple hosts elaborate traditional ceremonies honoring Confucius with ancient ritual music, dance performances, and offerings. Visitors can explore the grounds freely, admire the refined architecture, and experience the contemplative atmosphere that has made Confucian temples important centers of learning and moral education throughout Chinese history.
Explore TianLiao Moon World Landscape Park
Tianliao Moon World (also called Yuejie or Badlands) is a surreal geological wonder in Kaohsiung’s Tianliao District featuring otherworldly lunar-like landscapes of barren gray mountains and valleys. This unique terrain consists of mudstone and shale badlands eroded over millennia, creating dramatic ridges, steep slopes, and desolate scenery that resembles the moon’s surface, hence its evocative name.
Walking trails and viewing platforms allow visitors to explore this alien landscape safely, with the stark gray hills contrasting beautifully against blue skies. The area is particularly photogenic during sunrise and sunset when golden light accentuates the dramatic textures and shadows of the eroded formations.
A suspension bridge and pavilions provide excellent vantage points for photography. Despite its barren appearance, the park features vegetation at lower elevations and a small lake. This geological oddity offers an entirely different experience from typical tourist attractions, perfect for nature photographers and those seeking unusual landscapes within easy reach of Kaohsiung.
Go sightseeing at the Museum of History.
The Kaohsiung Museum of History is an important cultural institution housed in a beautiful Japanese colonial-era building that is significant as historical architecture. Located in the Yancheng District near Love River, the elegant structure was originally built in 1938 as the Kaohsiung City Hall during Japanese rule, featuring distinctive Imperial Crown Style architecture that blends Japanese and Western design elements.
The museum chronicles Kaohsiung’s fascinating transformation from a small fishing village to Taiwan’s major industrial port city and second-largest metropolis. Permanent and rotating exhibitions showcase archaeological artifacts, historical photographs, documents, and displays covering indigenous culture, colonial periods, maritime development, industrial growth, and urban evolution.
The well-curated collections provide valuable insights into southern Taiwan’s unique history and cultural identity. The building’s historic ambiance, combined with air-conditioned galleries, makes it an excellent educational stop, particularly on hot days. It’s conveniently located near other downtown attractions and accessible via MRT, offering cultural enrichment and historical context for understanding modern Kaohsiung.
Go sightseeing at Ciaotou Flower Farm
Ciaotou Flower Farm is a delightful agricultural attraction in Kaohsiung’s Ciaotou District, showcasing vibrant seasonal flowers and rural countryside charm. This working flower farm cultivates colorful blooms throughout the year, with different flowers peaking in various seasons, creating ever-changing landscapes perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.
Visitors can wander through fields of sunflowers, cosmos, zinnias, and other seasonal varieties while enjoying the peaceful rural atmosphere away from urban bustle. The farm offers opportunities to learn about flower cultivation, purchase fresh-cut flowers and plants, and enjoy simple countryside pleasures.
It’s particularly popular during sunflower season when golden fields create Instagram-worthy scenes. The farm offers a relaxing escape that combines nature appreciation with agricultural tourism, ideal for families, photographers, and anyone seeking colorful natural beauty and fresh air in Kaohsiung’s outlying areas.
Have fun at Pier 2 Art Center.
This is a favorite hotspot among locals in Kaohsiung City—a vibrant gathering place where friends, families, and couples come to relax, explore, and have fun. Located in the Yancheng District along the harbor, the art center occupies what was once a cluster of warehouses built in 1973, now repurposed into colorful creative spaces.
Most of the art at the Pier-2 Art Center can be enjoyed for free, including outdoor sculptures, murals, and interactive installations scattered among the old industrial buildings. While some seasonal exhibitions and special events require an entrance ticket, visitors can still spend hours wandering the open areas, taking photos, and soaking in the creative atmosphere without paying a fee.
Once the second connecting pier of Kaohsiung and a crucial node in the city’s maritime history, this site has been reborn as a vibrant cultural landmark. Its transformation has helped reshape Kaohsiung into a new capital of culture and creativity.
What were once abandoned industrial spaces are now open art venues, filled with exhibitions, performances, and public installations that breathe new life into the waterfront and invite the public to explore, gather, and create.
How to get there: The center is within walking distance of the South West from Yanchengpu Station on the Kaohsiung MRT. Since 2017, Dayi Pier-2 Station and Penglai Pier-2 Station of Kaohsiung LRT have passed through the Pier-2 Art Center.
Experience the Hamasen Pier 2 line railway ride
One of the most captivating experiences at Pier 2 is the nostalgic railway ride on a miniature steam locomotive. This quaint little train slowly winds its way between the Hamasen Railroad Historical Park and the Penglai Warehouses—two landmarks of historical and cultural significance.
Seen from a “micro perspective,” the ride becomes more than just a short rail trip; it turns into a moving narrative of the city’s evolution. The route follows the former Kaohsiung Harbor Line, which once fueled the city’s industrial growth by carrying raw materials and finished goods in and out of the port.
As passengers ride past the old tracks and harbor-side buildings, they are reminded that Kaohsiung Harbor Station was once the beating heart of Taiwan’s rail freight network, linking the harbor to the rest of the island and supporting decades of economic development.
Wei Wu Ying Center for the Arts
The Wei Wu Ying Center for the Arts is a stunning, world-class performing arts complex in southern Kaohsiung that has, since its 2018 opening, become an architectural landmark. Designed by renowned Dutch architect Francine Houben, the building’s dramatic curved roof resembles rolling waves or banyan tree canopies, creating a striking silhouette that has won international acclaim.
The massive complex houses four state-of-the-art performance venues: a 2,260-seat concert hall with exceptional acoustics, an opera house, a playhouse, and a recital hall, which host opera, orchestra, theater, dance, and contemporary performances. The innovative design features a large open-air banyan plaza beneath the undulating roof, creating a public gathering space that blurs the indoor-outdoor boundary.
Visitors can explore the architectural marvel even without attending performances, enjoying free exhibitions, the design library, cafes, and the beautiful surrounding park. The center represents Taiwan’s commitment to arts and culture, bringing world-class performances and architectural innovation to southern Taiwan while serving as a cultural hub for the region.
How to get there: The art center is accessible via Weiwuying Station on the Kaohsiung MRT.
Visit Fongyi Academy
Fongyi Academy is a beautifully preserved traditional Confucian academy located in Kaohsiung’s Fengshan District, originally built in 1814 during the Qing Dynasty. This historic complex served as an important educational institution where scholars studied classical Chinese texts and prepared for imperial examinations.
The elegant architecture features traditional curved roofs, ornate wooden carvings, classical courtyards, and authentic period details that evoke Taiwan’s scholarly past. As one of Taiwan’s best-preserved academies, it showcases traditional educational culture and Confucian learning values.
The peaceful grounds include worship halls, study rooms, gardens, and informative exhibits about Taiwan’s educational history, making it a valuable cultural heritage site for understanding traditional Chinese scholarship and architecture.
How to get there: The building is within walking distance of Fongshan Station on the Kaohsiung MRT, east of the station.
Explore Zizhu Village
Zizhu Village was built between the 1940s and the late 1950s to house national soldiers and their families. Over time, poor management led to the area’s deterioration, and many of the original military residences were demolished and replaced with newer structures.
Years later, the village found new life when groups of students and artists began to gather there. They transformed the remaining houses and alleyways into a colorful, outdoor gallery, painting vivid murals across walls and doors and filling neglected corners with imaginative art installations. What was once a modest military settlement became a lively, photogenic neighborhood bursting with creativity and color.
Visitors can wander through the village at no charge, pausing to relax, take photos, and appreciate the wide range of artworks on display. Unfortunately, Zizhu Village has now been permanently closed by the local government, and its painted streets and buildings are no longer open to the public.
Have fun on Cijin Island
Cijin Island is a narrow barrier island off Kaohsiung’s coast, accessible by a quick and scenic ferry ride from the harbor, making it a popular escape for beaches, seafood, and coastal charm. The island stretches about 5 kilometers long but only 200 meters wide, creating a unique elongated shape perfect for cycling along the coastal bike paths.
Cijin Beach offers sandy shores for swimming and water sports, while the scenic Cijin Seaside Park features colorful rainbow churches and Instagram-worthy installations. The famous Cijin Old Street is packed with fresh seafood restaurants and street food vendors serving local specialties like grilled squid and seafood noodles.
Other attractions include Cijin Lighthouse, offering panoramic harbor views; the Fort of Cihou, with historic military structures; and shell museums. The laid-back island atmosphere, fresh sea breezes, and abundance of seafood make Cijin a refreshing day trip combining beach relaxation, cycling, cultural sites, and culinary delights.
Walk around Kaohsiung City
Although Kaohsiung City may not boast an overwhelming number of world-famous tourist landmarks, it has a quiet charm that reveals itself the more you explore. Simply walking around the city lets you soak in its relaxed pace, the warmth of its people, and the lively streets filled with shops, cafés, and food stalls.
As you wander, you’ll uncover hidden gems—peaceful parks, colorful temples, buzzing night markets, and breezy waterfront paths—that make Kaohsiung feel both welcoming and distinctive.
While Kaohsiung is still developing into a premier tourist destination, it certainly doesn’t lack for places to see and things to do. From scenic harbor viewpoints and creative art districts to traditional neighborhoods steeped in culture and history, the city offers plenty of experiences that leave a lasting impression on visitors.
E-Da Theme Park
E-Da Theme Park is Taiwan’s largest indoor recreation center, combining leisure, shopping, and entertainment in a distinctive Greek-style setting. The complex includes world-class hotels, expansive shopping malls featuring more than 150 international luxury brands, a national-level entertainment theater, and the tallest Ferris wheel in Southern Taiwan, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Together, these elements of fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, gourmet dining, and relaxation transform the outlet mall into a vibrant paradise for shoppers and visitors seeking a complete, all-in-one destination.
Discover Kaohsiung like no other via i-Ride
Located in Kaohsiung Software Park, the “i-Ride Experience Center” is a state-of-the-art attraction offering a bird’s-eye view of Kaohsiung’s top tourist destinations. Combining a simulator, surround audio-video system, and immersive 5D effects makes riders feel as if they are flying. i-Ride is more than an attraction; it’s a cultural and educational experience.
Get a chance to experience an incredible adventure. When flying through the Liuhe Night Market, the fragrance of salty chicken floats in the air. You can fly through the wind and experience the fun of flying between the clouds.
When leaping across the ocean, you may even touch the splashing waves and feel full on the spot. What are you waiting for?
Drive like a pro at Suzuka Circuit Park
In 2016, Suzuka Circuit Park was Taiwan’s first driving Theme Park. It is located inside a sports-themed amusement park and a vast shopping mall. The full-scale kart course replicates the layout of the famous Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
The park features many fun turns that both rookies and experienced drivers will enjoy. In addition to the kart circuit, the park features two major themes, a carousel and a trolley ride — so you definitely won’t be short of things to do. Choose between two pass options: a day pass valid for weekdays and weekends, or a weekday night pass allowing you to visit the park after 5pm.
With all the needed facilities available on-site, a day at Suzuka Circuit Park is full of fun for the whole family.
Kaohsiung Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
Zuoying Lotus Pond
Zuoying District offers visitors many sights, with Lotus Pond among the most sought-after.
Do you have other recommended fun and exciting things to do in Kaohsiung? Read our Kaohsiung Travel Guide, and please feel free to share by posting a comment below.
Disclosure: This was an updated version of our recommended Things to Do in Kaohsiung Blog post. We added new attractions and activities from our recent familiarization trip, made possible by AirAsia and Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau. We hope this will help you create your Kaohsiung Itinerary for your next visit.
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