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Kaohsiung City is located in southern Taiwan, bordering the Taiwan Strait to the west and south. It is Taiwan's second largest city and home to Taiwan's largest international port. Kaohsiung Harbor boasts a calm waters and frequented by large ships, earning it the nickname "Port City," one of the world's ten largest ports. The Xiziwan Scenic Area, known as the "West Lake of Taiwan," boasts numerous unique attractions and is one of southern Taiwan's most renowned tourist destinations. The area surrounding Lotus Pond in Zuoying is home to Taiwan's largest Confucius Temple, the Dragon and Tiger Pagoda, the Spring and Autumn Pavilion, and other attractions. Other historic sites include the Qihou Lighthouse, the Qihou Fort, the former British Consulate in Takao, and the Xiongzhen North Gate, all of which are well worth a visit.
Besides sightseeing, Kaohsiung is also renowned for its night markets and local snacks. Liuhe Night Market boasts a dazzling array of local snacks, including salt-steamed shrimp, papaya milk, tube-shaped rice cakes, and stinky tofu, all of which are Kaohsiung's signature specialties.
The Kaohsiung Lantern Festival, held from mid-February to early March, will combine the festival with various art exhibitions and interactive activities.
The Dragon Boat Festival, held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, attracts numerous boat fleets and visitors. The races are often held at night, with both sides ablaze with lights and a lively atmosphere.
July to September is the period when typhoons frequently strike Kaohsiung. If traveling to Kaohsiung during this time, be sure to check the weather forecast in advance to avoid delays.
Pier-2 Art Center
The Pier-2 Art Center is located on the banks of the Love River in Kaohsiung City, adjacent to Kaohsiung Port. "Pier-2" refers to Pier 2, originally a port warehouse used to store fishmeal and sugar. In 2000, the Kaohsiung government renovated it into a renowned art exhibition area. Today, it hosts live performances by pop singers and indie bands every weekend, and some artists also choose it as a venue for new releases.
Xiziwan Scenic Area
The Xizi Sunset in the Xizi Bay Scenic Area is one of the eight scenic spots in Kaohsiung. It faces the Cijin Peninsula across the sea to the south and is backed by Wanshou Mountain to the north. It is famous for its blue sea and golden sand bathing beaches, gorgeous sunset sea views and natural reefs.
Liuhe Night Market
Bustling with traffic during the day, this place transforms into a bustling night market at night. Nearly 200 stalls line the short 300-meter stretch, offering a variety of snacks, late-night snacks, clothing shopping, and movie experiences, all while immersing yourself in authentic night market culture.
Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days
Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second-largest city and a major port with historical importance as a trading hub. It blends modern urban life with cultural heritage, featuring temples, colonial architecture, and a thriving arts scene.
Located in southern Taiwan. Accessible via Kaohsiung International Airport, High-Speed Rail (HSR), trains, and buses. Within the city, the MRT, buses, taxis, and walking are convenient for sightseeing.
Advance booking is optional for most attractions. For guided tours or special exhibitions, 1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.
3–4 days to cover main attractions, night markets, and nearby islands like Cijin.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English at major attractions. Audio guides may be available in English, Mandarin, and Japanese at key museums.
Day 1: Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Day 2: Lotus Pond and nearby temples. Day 3: Pier-2 Art Center and Love River. Evening: Night markets. Optional Day 4: Cijin Island trip.
Love River boat rides and night markets are evening highlights. Pier-2 Art Center often hosts evening exhibitions or light installations. Some pagodas have night illumination.
Tourist areas can be busy on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded.
All major attractions have toilets, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and seating areas.
Most attractions are wheelchair-friendly and suitable for families. Some temples and pagodas may have stairs.
Credit cards and mobile payments like LINE Pay and Apple Pay are widely accepted; small vendors may require cash.
Variety of Taiwanese, seafood, and international cuisine. Notable areas include Liuhe Night Market, Ruifeng Night Market, and Pier-2 Art Center cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants are available; halal restaurants mostly in city center and tourist areas.
