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Exploring Kaohsiung, Taiwan: A Guide to the Island

About Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Kaohsiung, Taiwan is a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of the country. With its bustling night markets, breathtaking temples, and stunning harbor views, this destination is perfect for visitors looking to experience the best of Taiwanese culture. Whether you're exploring the city's historical sites, enjoying its street food, or simply taking in the local scenery, Kaohsiung is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Taiwan.

Kaohsiung, the second largest city in Taiwan, is known for its bustling harbor, vibrant night markets, and beautiful parks. Whether you're exploring the city's cultural landmarks or soaking up the sunshine at a local beach, Kaohsiung has something for everyone.

One of the city's must-see attractions is the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, a sprawling complex that houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum's temple halls, pagodas, and meditation rooms, as well as enjoy a vegetarian meal at the on-site restaurant.

Another popular destination in Kaohsiung is the Liuhe Night Market, where visitors can sample a wide variety of Taiwanese street food and shop for souvenirs and trinkets. The market is particularly famous for its seafood, including grilled squid and oyster omelettes.

For those looking to get some fresh air and exercise, Kaohsiung is home to several beautiful parks and gardens. One of the most popular is the Lotus Pond, which features a picturesque pagoda and several temples. Other notable parks include the Central Park, which boasts a large lake and a variety of outdoor activities, and the Shoushan National Nature Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the city.

Of course, no visit to Kaohsiung would be complete without a trip to the beach. The city is home to several popular beaches, including Cijin Beach and Qijin Beach, both of which offer stunning views of the sunset and plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.

Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Kaohsiung is sure to delight. With its welcoming locals, beautiful scenery, and endless attractions, this Taiwanese gem is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

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Popular Stays in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

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Business hotelsHotels with spa

Han Hsien International Hotel

This 5 star hotel is located in the city centre of Kaohsiung. The Hotel has a coffee shop, an indoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 380 rooms are equipped with minibar, safe and air conditioning.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spa

Lees Hotel

This luxury city and business hotel is located in the heart of the central business district in Kaohsiung. This prime setting offers convenient access to the city's financial district. The hotel is situated a 3 minutes' drive from the motorway, 5 minutes from the railway station and a 15 minutes' drive from Kaohsiung International and Domestic Airport.This upscale hotel features a magnificent architectural style and elegant interiors. Guests are welcomed into the expansive space of the lobby, which is stunningly designed, featuring soothing neutral tones. Business guests will be impressed by the hotel's first-class meeting and conference facilities, designed with luxury, comfort and convenience in mind. Guests will be spoiled for choice with the hotel's dining options, which offer sumptuous Cantonese and Chinese delights.
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Business hotelsHotels with charmFamily hotels

Howard Plaza Hotel Kaohsiung

This upscale hotel basks in a strategic setting in the heart of Kaohsiung's business and commercial districts. The hotel is just a 20 minutes' drive from the Kaohsiung Zuoying Station and is a 30 minutes' drive from Kaohsiung International Airport.The hotel boasts a charming architectural design, luxurious interiors and unrivalled service. The guest rooms feature an elegant Oriental style, exuding tranquility and serenity, providing a cocoon of peace and opulence in which to experience the utmost in relaxation and restful sleep. Guests will appreciate the hotel's recreational, leisure and dining amenities, which are sure to exceed all expectations. Seasoned shoppers will enjoy the high-quality style of the hotel's boutique and all guests will be impressed by the sumptuous dining experience the restaurant has to offer.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Fullon Hotel Kaohsiung

This hotel basks in its romantic setting on the Wufu 4th Road next to the River Love. Guests are afforded the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and its myriad of attractions. Guests can also take a relaxing love boat ride on the river.The hotel features comfortable, convenient guest rooms which offer tranquil surroundings away from the bustle of the city, allowing guests to relax and unwind a world away from it all. The guest rooms also feature modern conveniences to ensure that guests' needs are fully catered to. Guests can enjoy delectable culinary delights throughout the day , savouring the flavours of Chinese cuisine that the restaurant has to offer. The hotel also features a pool for guests' recreational pleasure.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Grand Hi Lai Hotel

The hotel is situated in the metropolitan area of Kaohsiung city, which is a popular destination for visitors to Taiwan. Erected almost 200 metres above the Kaohsiung skyline, this 5-star hotel with Baroque architecture provides the ultimate luxury within the area. There are 540 guest rooms in total. This air-conditioned city hotel offers a spacious international banquet room and fully functional meeting rooms. All guest rooms are functionally furnished with an elegant neoclassical design. The hotel has superior recreational and leisure facilities, including the exclusive Executive Club. Guests can look forwards to many tasty treats, with over a dozen different Eastern and Western restaurants and cafes, offering everything from poolside snacks to the exquisite cuisine of the Lobster Bar.
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Business hotels

Chateau De Chine Hotel Kaohsiung

The hotel is a 10-minute drive from the Liuhe night market and Kaohsiung railway station. Kaohsiung International Airport is a 30-minute drive away. The hotel provides the convenience of a 24-hour front desk and other facilities which include a business centre and a luggage storage area. Concierge services and free private parking are available. The hotel comprises a total of 152 rooms. All units are fully carpeted and have air conditioning. They also have a safe and tea and coffee making facilities. A private bathroom with a bathtub, shower and hairdryer is a standard feature of all accommodation. Guests can enjoy Japanese dishes at the Pin Japanese restaurant. Hong Kong delicacies, such as dim sum, are served at the Harbour Cantonese restaurant. The hotel serves breakfast and the lunchtime and evening meals can be enjoyed as a set menu.
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Business hotelsHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

E Da Royal Hotel

This resort hotel is located in southern Taiwan, lying just a 20 minutes' driving distance from downtown Kaohsiung and Kaohsiung High Speed Rail Station. This hotel affords guests a prime setting, from which to explore the myriad of attractions that this spectacular city has to offer. A seemingly boundless choice of shopping opportunities, dining options and entertainment venues can be found nearby. This hotel comprises luxurious-designed guestrooms, which tempt visitors into a world where comfort, elegance and convenience are combined. Guests will more than impressed by the extensive range of first-class facilities and services that this magnificent hotel has to offer.
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Family hotelsBusiness hotels

E Da Skylark Hotel

The hotel is located within the outskirts of Dashe Township, surrounded by beautiful scenic environment. There is a countless amount of attractions available around the hotel; worth mentioning are for instance the E-Da Theme Park and E-Da World Plaza. The building of this luxurious hotel has been designed in European style with sophisticated architecture that will please each guest's taste. The hotel is the perfecto choice for discerning travellers to Kaohsiung looking for ultimate comforts in truly sumptuous ambience.

Things to do in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Fo Guang Shan Temple and Buddha Memorial Center, Kaohsiung City
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Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour

Create a custom 8-hour itinerary in and around Kaohsiung! No matter if you are planning your own journey or a business trip, make it easier with this convenient and customized service. See the attractions that you want to see according to your own preferences with a local guide.
Orchid Island Transportation | Carpooling from Kaohsiung City to Kenting Houbihu Pier
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Orchid Island Transportation | Carpooling from Kaohsiung City to Kenting Houbihu Pier

Book Over The Planet's carpool transfer from Kaohsiung to Kenting Houbihu Harbor now. Customize departure times to match your ferry schedule. Connect with Kaohsiung Railway and HSR stations, and return easily.

  • Skip taxi or bus lines—easily travel between Kaohsiung and Houbihu Yacht Harbor
  • Choose from Kaohsiung Railway Station, HSR Station, or Zhongzheng Interchange
  • Enjoy comfortable rides with professional drivers and legal, safe service
  • Transfer smoothly without handling luggage, arriving at your destination hassle-free
5D Visual Flying Theater at i-Ride Kaohsiung | Fly over Origin. Africa & Fly Over Series | Taiwan
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5D Visual Flying Theater at i-Ride Kaohsiung | Fly over Origin. Africa & Fly Over Series | Taiwan

  • Join renowned program host Lu Chieh for a pre-show introduction, as he effortlessly guides you through the iconic painting “Along the River During the Qingming Festival”
  • This highly acclaimed film, released in 2022, has captivated over 100,000 people across Taiwan! Immerse yourself in a groundbreaking experience, featuring a 20-meter giant spherical screen, as you soar into the world-famous painting with your feet suspended in the air
  • Soar over Bianjing, the ancient capital from a thousand years ago, as you fly through a world filled with rich wine, the tempting aroma of meat, and the scent of blooming lotus flowers at night
  • The Five Major Experiences of the Northern Song Dynasty – a truly immersive show featuring Wind Riding Flight, Ink Rhythm Trend Play, Culinary Time Travel, Ancient Costume Transformation, and a Stroll Through a Bustling City. Don’t miss out on this experience beyond your imagination
  • Enjoy discounts on hotels this Autumn/Winter! Book a hotel in Kaohsiung + round-trip high-speed rail tickets, and use the discount code "THSRSUMB" when you check out to get NT$500 off! For more exclusive offers, please visit the official website. Earn Over The Planet Points and book now!
Kaohsiung Love River: Love Boat Ticket Package (Instant Confirmation) | Taiwan
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Kaohsiung Love River: Love Boat Ticket Package (Instant Confirmation) | Taiwan

Kaohsiung Lotus WakePark Wakeboarding Experience with Free SUP & Water Carpet Sessions | Taiwan
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Kaohsiung Lotus WakePark Wakeboarding Experience with Free SUP & Water Carpet Sessions | Taiwan

Venture out to Kaohsiung Lotus Wake Park for an exhilarating cable wakeboarding experience. Master your wakeboarding skills and pick up new tricks. Learn the basics from an experienced professional and ensure a safe experience with a short safety briefing.

  • Buy this package of Water Ski Ticket + Basic Instruction + Equipment for only $1,500 NT
  • Check-in and leave a Google review for a free water skiing all-day experience voucher (first time only, personal use next time, one-year expiration date)
  • Have a free water skiing photo taken for you
  • Complete circling around five towers and get a free gift of your choice (french fries, tempura, or drink)
2-Way Direct Shared Transfer Service: Kaohsiung HSR/Railway Station to Downtown Kenting/Hotels in Kenting & Vice-Versa | Taiwan
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2-Way Direct Shared Transfer Service: Kaohsiung HSR/Railway Station to Downtown Kenting/Hotels in Kenting & Vice-Versa | Taiwan

  • Professional and friendly drivers provide safe pick-up and drop-off services
  • Use messaging app for convenient and fast communication 
  • Departing in both directions, the special car goes directly to the destination, eliminating the hassle of dragging luggage and transferring to transportation.
  • There are also chartered cars available for Southern Taiwan Transfer｜Kaohsiung-Kenting Chartered Transfer
E-DA Theme Park | Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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E-DA Theme Park | Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Enter the E-DA Theme Park, the famous Greek-themed attraction in Kaohsiung, Southern Taiwan. Get lost in ancient Greece while exploring three themed zones: The Acropolis, Santorini Mountain City, and the Trojan Castle. Book today with Over The Planet for a complimentary souvenir!

Kaohsiung Kuroro Star Park SKM Park Store｜Game Love Park｜From Japan's most popular children's amusement park
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Kaohsiung Kuroro Star Park SKM Park Store｜Game Love Park｜From Japan's most popular children's amusement park

  • The amusement equipment in the game love park is developed and manufactured by the original Japanese factory, with patents and international safety certification
  • The facilities in the park meet the national inspection standards: CNS15913, CNS12643, disinfected one hour before and after the opening and closing every day, and disinfected with 75% alcohol every two hours

Why People Love Kaohsiung, Taiwan

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

J
Jet40404
2
Jul 2019
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
for the amount we paid, we deserve a much better vehicle, not a Cab; for first timers, we should have been taught of something of the places that we will visit; tour guide was only mindful of taking pictures
J
Jet40404
2
Jun 2019
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
More conversational guide please, not as expected, considering that we always get tours from viator.
S
SeiichiO9
5
Oct 2019
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
Half-day tour Kaohsiung
高雄に来て最初の行くのは？と問われると。龍虎塔と答えたい！なぜならば、湖にたたずむこの塔のトップから全景を望んだ時の眺望は！満足、ただ、ラセン階段は、狭いのがイマイチ、湖畔の周りには、果物屋台とかお土産屋が沢山あります！有名なお寺も集中してるので、お寺周りも欠かさず行きたいですね！

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Frequently Asked Questions about Kaohsiung

What are some must-visit attractions in Kaohsiung?

There are many must-visit attractions in Kaohsiung. Some of them include the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Pier-2 Art Center, and Lotus Pond. The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a large temple complex that houses many impressive statues and is a great place to learn about Buddhism. The Pier-2 Art Center is a former warehouse turned art space that features many unique installations and exhibitions. Lotus Pond is a scenic lake surrounded by many temples and pavilions. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake to get a closer look at the attractions.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Kaohsiung?

There are many outdoor activities to do in Kaohsiung. Some of them include hiking at Shoushan National Nature Park, visiting the beach at Cijin Island, and biking along the Love River. Shoushan National Nature Park is a great place to hike and enjoy the scenic views of Kaohsiung. Cijin Island is a small island off the coast of Kaohsiung that is known for its beaches and seafood. Visitors can rent a bike and ride along the Love River, which is a popular spot for locals to exercise and relax.

What are some indoor activities to do in Kaohsiung?

There are many indoor activities to do in Kaohsiung. Some of them include visiting the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, the Kaohsiung Museum of History, and the E-DA Theme Park. The Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts is a great place to see contemporary art from Taiwan and around the world. The Kaohsiung Museum of History is a great place to learn about the history of the city. The E-DA Theme Park is an indoor amusement park that features many rides and attractions for all ages.

What are some popular night markets in Kaohsiung?

There are many popular night markets in Kaohsiung. Some of them include the Liuhe Night Market, the Ruifeng Night Market, and the Jin-Zuan Night Market. The Liuhe Night Market is the largest night market in Kaohsiung and is known for its seafood. The Ruifeng Night Market is known for its street food and carnival games. The Jin-Zuan Night Market is a smaller night market that is known for its local snacks and souvenirs.

What is the best way to get around Kaohsiung?

The best way to get around Kaohsiung is by using the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. The MRT is a clean and efficient way to travel around the city, and it has many stations that are conveniently located near popular tourist attractions. Another option is to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber or GoGoVan. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

What are some traditional foods to try in Kaohsiung?

There are many traditional foods to try in Kaohsiung. Some of them include oyster omelet, beef noodle soup, and danzai noodles. Oyster omelet is a popular street food that is made with eggs, oysters, and vegetables. Beef noodle soup is a hearty soup that is made with beef broth, noodles, and vegetables. Danzai noodles is a type of noodle soup that is made with ground pork, shrimp, and a variety of spices.

What are some modern cafes to visit in Kaohsiung?

There are many modern cafes to visit in Kaohsiung. Some of them include Pier-2 Cafe, Sugar Miss, and Wake Up Coffee. Pier-2 Cafe is located inside the Pier-2 Art Center and features a unique industrial design. Sugar Miss is a popular dessert cafe that is known for its colorful and Instagram-worthy desserts. Wake Up Coffee is a cozy cafe that features a variety of specialty coffee drinks.

What are some luxury accommodations in Kaohsiung?

There are many luxury accommodations in Kaohsiung. Some of them include the Grand Hi-Lai Hotel, the Ambassador Hotel Kaohsiung, and the Howard Plaza Hotel Kaohsiung. The Grand Hi-Lai Hotel is a 5-star hotel that features many amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants. The Ambassador Hotel Kaohsiung is a 5-star hotel that is located near many popular tourist attractions. The Howard Plaza Hotel Kaohsiung is a 5-star hotel that features many amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.

What are some budget accommodations in Kaohsiung?

There are many budget accommodations in Kaohsiung. Some of them include the Backpackers Inn Kaohsiung, the Kiwi Express Hotel - Kaohsiung Station, and the Kaohsiung Sanduo Hotel. The Backpackers Inn Kaohsiung is a hostel that offers affordable dormitory-style rooms. The Kiwi Express Hotel - Kaohsiung Station is a budget hotel that is located near the Kaohsiung MRT Station. The Kaohsiung Sanduo Hotel is a budget hotel that is located near many popular shopping districts.

What is the best time of year to visit Kaohsiung?

The best time of year to visit Kaohsiung is during the fall (September to November) or winter (December to February). During this time, the weather is cool and comfortable, and there are many festivals and events that take place. The spring (March to May) and summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but there are still many indoor activities and attractions to enjoy.