Name: Love Boat
Boarding Locations: Ambassador Hotel, Ren'ai Park, in front of the Music Center
27 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s Second Largest City!
"Kaohsiung," located in the southwestern part of Taiwan, is the country's second-largest city, following Taipei. In this article, we introduce 27 recommended tourist spots in Kaohsiung, ranging from famous landmarks to slightly more niche destinations.
Kaohsiung offers a wealth of sightseeing options, from the beautiful skyline and harbor views in the city center to the historical sites and natural wonders in the surrounding areas. There are direct flights from Japan, and the city also provides excellent access to Tainan, a food lover’s paradise. Kaohsiung has been gaining popularity among repeat visitors to Taiwan. Why not take a trip to this fascinating city full of attractions?
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27 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s Second Largest City!
- 1. Love Boat (Love River)
- 2. Heart of Love River
- 3. Liuhe Tourist Night Market
- 4. Lotus Pond
- 5. Kaohsiung Music Center
- 6. Sanduo Shopping District
- 7. Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts
- 8. Pier-2 Art Center
- 9. British Consulate at Takao
- 10. Formosa Boulevard Station
- 11. Chengcing Lake
- 12. E-DA Theme Park
- 13. Kaohsiung Museum of History
- 14. Ten Drum Qiaotou Creative Park
- 15. Taiwan Sugar Museum
- 16. Sanhe Tile Kiln
- 17. Tianliao Moon World
- 18. Fo Guang Shan
- 19. Cijin Island
- 20. Takao Railway Museum
- 21. Dream Mall
- 22. Ruifeng Night Market
- 23. Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
- 24. Urban Spotlight
- 25. Meinong District
- 26. Qishan District
- 27. Fongyi Tutorial Academy
- Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
1. Love Boat (Love River)
The "Love River" is a symbol of Kaohsiung City. It is especially beautiful at night, when the city lights reflect on the water, creating a romantic atmosphere. Walking along the riverside while enjoying the neon reflections of the skyscrapers is a delightful experience. For those who want to further enjoy the beauty of Love River, we recommend taking the "Love Boat" cruise.
The Love Boat is an affordable sightseeing cruise that lasts about 20 minutes, allowing you to take in the views of Kaohsiung, including landmarks such as the 85 Sky Tower. Boats depart approximately every 25 minutes, so waiting times are short. If you visit during the Lunar New Year, you can also enjoy special fireworks events, making the river even more enchanting.
2. Heart of Love River
The "Heart of Love River" is a heart-shaped lake located around the middle part of the Love River. It’s one of the most romantic nightscape spots in Kaohsiung. The East Lake is shallower and serves as a habitat for fish and shrimp, while the West Lake is deeper and also serves as a flood control mechanism.
During the day, the park is ideal for walking or cycling, while at night, you can enjoy the beautifully illuminated bridges and picturesque views, perfect for photography.
Name: Heart of Love River
Address: No. 2, Longde Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
Official/Related Website: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=A12-00167
3. Liuhe Tourist Night Market
The most famous night market in Kaohsiung is "Liuhe Tourist Night Market." Located just a short walk from KRT Formosa Boulevard Station, this night market is pedestrian-friendly with wide streets. Rows of tables are set up between the food stalls, allowing visitors to sit down and enjoy their meals. You can buy small portions from various stalls to sample different dishes.
One of the highlights of Liuhe Night Market is its abundance of seafood stalls, reflecting Kaohsiung's status as a port city. Oysters, squid, shrimp, and fish are prominently displayed at the stalls. We recommend trying the soup or noodles made with the local delicacy "milkfish", which is popular in Kaohsiung and Tainan.
There are also fresh juice stalls and steak shops for those who prefer hearty meals. It’s easy to order with just a point of your finger, making it a perfect stop for tourists to grab a quick bite. Besides food, the night market features nostalgic game stalls and shops selling various goods, offering plenty of entertainment for a fun-filled evening.
Name: Liuhe Tourist Night Market
Address: The intersection of Liuhe 2nd Rd. and Zhongshan 1st Rd., Xinxing District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=2245
4. Lotus Pond
One of the most photogenic tourist spots in Kaohsiung is "Lotus Pond," an artificial lake about 1.4 kilometers long, located in the suburbs of Kaohsiung. The area is dotted with colorful, grandiose Chinese-style structures.
The most popular attraction is the striking Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, with their open mouths of a dragon and a tiger. Visitors are meant to enter through the dragon's mouth, representing good fortune, and exit through the tiger’s mouth, which is associated with warding off evil.
Other highlights include the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, with its impressive statue of Guanyin riding a dragon, and the massive statue of the North Pole Emperor. Walking around the entire lake can take a while, so if you plan to visit, focusing on these three spots is recommended. Since there is little shade, don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated during your visit in the summer.
Name: Lotus Pond
Address: Liantan Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City
5. Kaohsiung Music Center
On October 31, 2021, a groundbreaking facility opened in the Kaohsiung Bay Area: the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center. This center is dedicated to pop music, featuring a main concert hall with a capacity of 12,000 people, a smaller concert hall for 3,500 people, six live houses called "Whales," rehearsal rooms, and an exhibition hall named "Dolphins." There are also two office towers and a marine museum within the complex. A pedestrian bridge connects five restaurants, and the surrounding area includes parks and walking paths.
Name: Kaohsiung Music Center
Address: No. 1, Zhen'ai Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
Official/Related Website: https://kpmc.com.tw/en/
6. Sanduo Shopping District
The "Sanduo Shopping District" in Kaohsiung is a popular area among tourists where large department stores are gathered. Famous department stores such as Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Pacific SOGO, and Kaohsiung Far Eastern Department Store are located here. One of Kaohsiung’s major landmarks, the Kaohsiung 85 Sky Tower, is also in this area.
The Kaohsiung 85 Sky Tower is a unique structure with an open space in the middle, making it a prominent landmark in the city. From the observation deck on the 74th floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kaohsiung.
Additionally, on the top floor of the Kaohsiung Far Eastern Department Store, you'll find the stylish select shop Eslite Bookstore, which is popular among Japanese tourists. It’s a great place to find souvenirs during your visit to Kaohsiung.
As you pass the Kaohsiung 85 Sky Tower and head towards the port, you'll come across the park featuring the "Star of the Sea" monument and the large, caterpillar-like structure of the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center, another famous spot in Kaohsiung. While Liuhe Night Market is more well-known, we recommend checking out the "Xingzhong Tourist Night Market" in the Sanduo Shopping District. It has a smaller, more local feel, and serves some of the best Taiwanese street food.
Name: Sanduo Shopping District
Address: Around KRT Red Line Sanduo Shopping District Station
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=5355
7. Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts
The Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts is one of the three public art museums in Taiwan. It always features cutting-edge exhibitions, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers in Kaohsiung.
Like other art museums in Taiwan, the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts boasts a vast area. Since it is located in what was once the Neiweipi Wetland, the area surrounding the museum is now a park filled with tropical plants.
To reach the museum, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through this park from the nearest bus stop. Scattered throughout the park are various sculptures and art installations, so the walk itself becomes a delightful sightseeing experience. For those traveling with children, the Children's Museum of Art within the same grounds is also highly recommended.
From the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, you can head into the city to visit other attractions like the Kaohsiung New Hakka Cultural Park and the romantic Heart of Love River.
Name: Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts
Address: No. 80, Meishuguan Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/398
8. Pier-2 Art Center
The Pier-2 Art Center is a trendy cultural spot in Kaohsiung, located in renovated warehouses along the Kaohsiung Port. It has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
While the center holds art exhibitions, the outdoor area is filled with quirky art installations. You’ll find giant robots resembling Transformers, cute mushroom characters sitting on the warehouses, and murals painted on the walls—making it a perfect spot for taking memorable photos during your Kaohsiung visit.
Aside from the art, Pier-2 Art Center is also known for its atmospheric cafes, where not only younger generations but also seniors can be seen enjoying drinks and conversations. The center is divided into different areas, with an Eslite Bookstore near the information center and a café by SunnyHills, famous for its pineapple cakes, located a short distance away. It’s a great place not just for sightseeing but also for souvenir shopping.
Name: Pier-2 Art Center
Address: No. 1, Dayong Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL:https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/489
9. British Consulate at Takao
The British Consulate at Takao is the first British consulate built in Taiwan, and its red brick Baroque architecture is striking. Located on a hill in Xiziwan, it offers panoramic views of the Kaohsiung coastline and city, making it a popular tourist destination.
On the first floor of the consulate, you'll find exhibits about the history of the consulate and Kaohsiung. Upstairs, there’s a charming café on the balcony where you can enjoy authentic British-style afternoon tea while surrounded by classic English furniture, a favorite among tourists. The souvenir shop offers British-themed goods related to the consulate.
If you head down the gentle slope to the basement, you’ll find a series of narrow, dimly lit rooms that once served as prison cells. While it might take a bit of courage to explore when no one else is around, it’s an exciting adventure. Outside the consulate, there is also a terrace café where you can enjoy a fragrant rose tea while taking in the stunning views of Kaohsiung.
Name: British Consulate at Takao
Address: No. 20, Lianhai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=5279
10. Formosa Boulevard Station
The Formosa Boulevard Station has been named one of the most beautiful stations in the world and is considered the "face" of Kaohsiung. It is the intersection of the Red and Orange lines of the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit (KRT) system.
At the center of the station, you’ll find the "Dome of Light," a massive 30-meter-wide stained glass ceiling installation. Composed of 4,500 colorful stained glass panels, it’s a breathtaking sight. While you can view the Dome of Light from outside the station, the best view is from inside after passing through the ticket gates, where you can admire it from various angles. The station’s glass architecture was designed by Japanese architect Shin Takamatsu, adding another layer of artistry to the experience.
Formosa Boulevard Station is a frequently used starting point for many tourists in Kaohsiung. It also offers convenient access to the popular Liuhe Night Market, with the station being its closest stop.
Name: Formosa Boulevard Station
Address: KRT Formosa Boulevard Station Concourse
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002016&id=a12-00071
11. Chengcing Lake
Chengcing Lake, located in Niaosong District of Kaohsiung City, is an artificial lake and one of the city's most famous tourist attractions, alongside Lotus Pond. Chengcing Lake is the largest lake in Kaohsiung, and touring the entire area can take quite a bit of time, so it's best to focus on key spots for efficient sightseeing.
One of the highlights is the "Nine-Curved Bridge," one of the eight scenic views of Chengcing Lake. This famous tourist spot features a zigzag path that extends longer than the entrance to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond. Although you may think walking straight would be faster, the bends in the path are considered auspicious in Taiwanese culture, designed to avoid misfortune. You can also leisurely stroll around the lake while admiring the seven-story Zhongxing Pagoda and the Chinese-style pavilions along the lakeside.
There’s also the Ocean Curiosities Museum, an aquarium built in an underground tunnel that was once used as a nuclear shelter, making it a unique and interesting attraction.
Chengcing Lake is easily accessible by bus from Kaohsiung Station, and you can also reach it by bus from Aozihdi Station (KRT), which is the nearest station to the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. Be sure to explore both attractions during your visit.
Name: Chengcing Lake
Address: No. 32, Dapi Rd, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=627
12. E-DA Theme Park
E-DA Theme Park is a large Greek-themed amusement park located in Dashu District, Kaohsiung City. If you’re looking to enjoy entertainment in Kaohsiung, make sure to visit E-DA Theme Park!
The park is filled with over 50 attractions, theaters, and various fun spots. The Santorini Zone, featuring adorable buildings that replicate the streets of Santorini, Greece, is especially perfect for taking memorable photos.
In the zone with the giant Trojan Horse, there are attractions like merry-go-rounds that young children can enjoy.
Adjacent to the amusement park is Taiwan's largest outlet mall, E-DA Outlet Mall, which boasts European-style classical architecture. Here, you'll find a wide range of brands, from Taiwanese labels to famous international ones. The mall also has a variety of restaurants and cafes, and you can even find shops selling Kaohsiung specialty products—perfect for souvenir hunting.
Name: E-DA Theme Park
Address: No. 10, Xuecheng Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.edathemepark.com.tw/
13. Kaohsiung Museum of History
For those interested in learning about the history of Kaohsiung, the Kaohsiung Museum of History is a must-visit destination. The museum building was originally constructed as a city hall during the Japanese colonial period, and after the Kaohsiung City Government relocated in 1998, it was transformed into a museum and became a new tourist spot.
The building’s light green exterior walls and green tiled roof stand out, and its Imperial Crown Style architecture features arches, marble staircases, and a grand hall with beautiful designs reminiscent of Japanese influence.
The permanent exhibits introduce the history and culture of life in Kaohsiung, along with a detailed account of the 228 Incident, a major event in Taiwan’s history. Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibits that are both unique and worth seeing, even if you can’t understand the explanations. There’s also a section selling Kaohsiung souvenirs, making it a great stop during your sightseeing tour.
Name: Kaohsiung Museum of History
Address: No. 272, Zhongzheng 4th Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/474
14. Ten Drum Qiaotou Creative Park
Located near Kaohsiung Port, the Ten Drum Qiaotou Creative Park shares its grounds with the Taiwan Sugar Museum. This park is themed around the world-renowned Ten Drum Art Percussion Group, one of Taiwan's most acclaimed drum troupes. Following the success of their popular Ten Drum Culture Village in Tainan, this is their second facility in Kaohsiung.
The Water Theater, which creatively incorporates water in its performances, regularly features shows by the Ten Drum Group. The dynamic fusion of drums and water is a must-see and can only be experienced in Kaohsiung. The facility, housed in a renovated sugar factory, also offers interactive drumming sessions where visitors can try their hand at playing the drums.
The park also has a restaurant serving dishes made with sugarcane and offers sugarcane-flavored ice pops—perfect for a unique food experience. Additionally, the grounds feature several air raid shelters built during wartime, which can be explored by visitors.
Name: Ten Drum Qiaotou Creative Park
Address: No. 24, Tangchang Rd, Qiaotou District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://tendrum.com.tw/
15. Taiwan Sugar Museum
Sugarcane, the raw material for sugar harvested in tropical climates, was a major industry in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. Among the most prominent sugar factories was Qiaotou Sugar Refinery in Kaohsiung, which was the largest in southern Taiwan. The factory site has now been renovated into the Taiwan Sugar Museum, a popular tourist attraction in Kaohsiung. The long-standing warehouse structures, where sugar was produced for many years, make a striking impression.
The museum displays artifacts related to the history and culture of sugar production in Taiwan, along with exhibits about the lives of the workers involved in the sugar industry in Kaohsiung. The farming tools and large machinery on display are truly impressive. Additionally, the expansive grounds have a park where children can play, and visitors can explore fascinating sculptures made from recycled materials.
There are also many other points of interest, such as the single-story residences where factory employees lived and the Baroque-style office for company housing. Take your time exploring the area, especially with the recent buzz surrounding the Kaohsiung Port district.
Name: Taiwan Sugar Museum
Address: No. 24, Tangchang Rd, Qiaotou District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.taisugar.com.tw/english/ProductsInfo_Index.aspx?n=11370
16. Sanhe Tile Kiln
During the Japanese colonial period, Japan introduced brick-making techniques to Taiwan. The soil in Dashu District of Kaohsiung was ideal for brick production, leading to the establishment of many kilns, including Sanhe Tile Kiln. In 1899, with the construction boom in Kaohsiung following the opening of the Taiwan Railway, the brick industry flourished. Today, Sanhe Tile Kiln is the only remaining brick factory from that era, making it a valuable tourist spot where visitors can experience the culture and history of the brick industry in Taiwan.
At this factory, which exudes the heavy charm of red bricks, visitors can purchase brick-themed souvenirs that make for great mementos of their trip to Kaohsiung. You can also participate in a workshop where you can carve your name or a design into a brick to create a custom coaster. Sanhe Tile Kiln is adjacent to the lush Old Iron Bridge Wetland Eco Park, so after your visit, you can relax and enjoy the park. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Taiwan Railway’s Jiuqutang Station.
Name: Sanhe Tile Kiln
Address: No. 94, Zhuliao Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.sanhetk.com.tw/
17. Tianliao Moon World
Tianliao Moon World, located in the suburbs of Kaohsiung, is situated between Kaohsiung City and Tainan City. This dynamic tourist spot features rugged rocky landscapes.
In contrast to the lush green mountains in the background, the jagged terrain, known as a badland formation, is barren and devoid of vegetation. Over time, the landscape has been sculpted by wind and rain, creating the unique patterns seen today. As its name suggests, Moon World offers visitors a surreal experience, as if they’ve landed on the moon.
It’s the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy an otherworldly experience away from the city. From the Crescent Moon Viewing Platform on the hill, you can take in the beautiful contrast of the pond and mountains.
At night, Moon World is illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere!
It takes about an hour by bus from Kaohsiung, but the surrounding area also has attractions like mud volcanoes, hot springs, and caves. You can also try the local specialty dish, Mud Volcano Chicken, made from free-range chickens, a delicacy you can only find in Tianliao.
Name: Tianliao Moon World
Address: No. 36, Yueqiu Rd, Chongde Village, Tianliao District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/436
18. Fo Guang Shan
Located in Dashu District, west of Kaohsiung City, Fo Guang Shan is one of Taiwan’s most significant Buddhist sites. If you’ve already covered Kaohsiung’s famous tourist spots or are looking for something unique, Fo Guang Shan is highly recommended. It can be considered a Buddhist theme park, offering visitors the chance to see vast grounds filled with numerous Buddhist statues.
The temple’s architecture is stunning, but the most impressive sight is the approximately 20-meter-tall Amitabha Buddha and the 480 golden Buddha statues lined up in rows. This breathtaking view is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. Inside the magnificent Great Buddha Hall, there are three statues of the Buddha, and surrounding the main hall are 14,800 statues of Shakyamuni Buddha. Visitors can also explore Buddhist art at the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum.
At the pinnacle of Fo Guang Shan is the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, which houses a giant Buddha statue. True to its name, Fo Guang Shan (Buddha’s Light Mountain) is surrounded by natural beauty, making the pilgrimage a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Name: Fo Guang Shan
Address: No. 153, Xingtian Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.fgs.org.tw/
19. Cijin Island
Cijin Island, located to the west of Kaohsiung, is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The island is easily accessible by a short 10-minute ferry ride from Xiziwan, offering a fun mini-boat trip experience.
The main tourist spots on Cijin Island are the Cihou Fort and Cihou Lighthouse. Both are situated on high ground, providing visitors with stunning views of the island and the sea. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, shop for seafood at the local markets, or savor fresh seafood dishes at the stalls—experiences that are unique to Cijin Island.
The Cijin Tianhou Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, is another must-visit. It is the oldest temple in Kaohsiung, with over 300 years of history, and is adorned with vibrant decorations. Just by paying a visit, you might feel blessed with good fortune. Although you can easily tour Cijin Island in a day, there are also many other attractions, such as a stylish rainbow-colored church and the Shell Museum. It’s the kind of place where even a full day might not be enough! Cycling around the island is also highly recommended.
Name: Cijin Island
Address: Cijin Peninsula, Cijin District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=A12-00072
20. Takao Railway Museum
Taiwan has many railway-related attractions, and in recent years, several of them have been renovated into new tourist destinations. The Takao Railway Museum is one such attraction, perfect for railway enthusiasts visiting Kaohsiung.
Formerly known as Kaohsiung Port Station, this facility was constructed during the Japanese colonial period as a freight station. Today, visitors can explore the restored waiting room, which recreates the station’s historical atmosphere, as well as the retro-style offices. Outside, on the platform, there are historic steam locomotives and trains on display, some over 100 years old. On weekends, many visitors—both adults and children—come to see the exhibits, with the steam locomotive being a popular spot for souvenir photos.
The Pier-2 Art Center, one of Kaohsiung’s landmarks, is located right next to the Takao Railway Museum. With stylish cafes and restaurants nearby, it's a great place to stop by during your visit.
Name: Takao Railway Museum
Address: No. 32, Gushan 1st Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://trm.tw/
21. Dream Mall
Dream Mall is the largest shopping mall in Taiwan, located in Kaohsiung. It is about a 15-minute walk from KRT Red Line's Kaisyuan Station, and it is situated in an area filled with large stores like IKEA and Costco, familiar to Japanese tourists. If you head north along Zhonghua Road, you'll quickly reach the Sanduo Shopping District, another popular shopping area in Kaohsiung. If you're searching for souvenirs during your Kaohsiung trip, this area is perfect for getting all your shopping done at once.
Riding the Ferris wheel, which offers a panoramic view of Kaohsiung, or catching the latest Taiwanese movies in the cinema complex are fun activities. It's also a great place to cool off during the hot summer days while you're out sightseeing. Being a shopping mall, Dream Mall is filled with various restaurants and cafes, offering everything from Taiwanese cuisine to Starbucks, ensuring that you’ll find a spot to relax.
After shopping, take a stroll around the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center area, where you can capture stunning sunset photos, perfect for commemorating your Kaohsiung trip.
Name: Dream Mall
Address: No. 789, Zhonghua 5th Rd, Qianzhen District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.dreammall.com.tw/
22. Ruifeng Night Market
When talking about night markets in Kaohsiung, Liuhe Night Market is often the first to come up, but the Ruifeng Night Market, beloved by locals, is also a must-visit tourist spot. It has over 20 years of history and is a familiar place for Kaohsiung residents. Once you get off at KRT Aozihdi Station, you’ll quickly arrive at the night market by following the crowd.
At the entrance, food stalls line up, and just like at Liuhe Night Market, seafood is a popular choice here. You can enjoy fresh seafood from Kaohsiung's coastal waters. One of the delights of visiting night markets is eating while walking, but there are also tables and chairs set up where you can sit down and enjoy your meal.
In addition to food, there are many clothing and souvenir stalls, so take your time exploring and searching for hidden gems. If you love shopping, you can try your hand at bargaining! It's also a great place to find inexpensive souvenirs. Playing old-fashioned night market games can also add fun memories to your visit. Since it's usually crowded, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings as you walk around.
Name: Ruifeng Night Market
Address: Yucheng Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=A12-00193
23. Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
While strolling around the Love River area in Kaohsiung, you’ll come across the Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica, affectionately known as Meiguicheng. Built in 1859 by Spanish missionaries, it is the oldest Catholic church in Taiwan. Its majestic Gothic architecture makes it a prominent sight in the Kaohsiung cityscape.
Designated as a third-grade national historic site, the Holy Rosary Cathedral is often considered the most beautiful church in Taiwan. Not only is its exterior stunning, but the interior is equally impressive, with intricate decorations. The octagonal dome-shaped altar and the statue of the Virgin Mary, which has a history of over 140 years, are particularly notable. If you're looking for a peaceful spot during your Kaohsiung trip, take some time to enjoy the church’s art and architecture.
At night, the church is illuminated, and the glowing stained glass is a must-see. Be sure to visit it as part of your tour along the Love River. You’ll notice how the church’s appearance changes between day and night—an experience worth comparing.
Name: Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
Address: No. 151, Wufu 3rd Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://rosary.catholic.org.tw/
24. Urban Spotlight
The Urban Spotlight in Kaohsiung is a light-themed street art installation located in the bustling area near Central Park. One of the unique features of Kaohsiung is its vibrant nightscapes, with neon lights from high-rise buildings and the city’s harbor views. The Urban Spotlight, created by Kaohsiung-born artists, brightens the city every night with its colorful illuminations.
During the day, it’s a popular spot for Kaohsiung locals to relax, and at night, it becomes a busy meeting place for people visiting the nearby Xin Juejiang Shopping District. The art pieces here are loved not only by locals but also by tourists. Be sure to add Urban Spotlight to your night tour of Kaohsiung to enjoy the city’s night view in a unique way.
Around the park, you'll find trendy cafes, perfect for taking a break and soaking in the atmosphere. The design of Central Park Station, the nearest station, is also modern and sophisticated, so make sure to check it out.
Name: Urban Spotlight
Address: No. 6, Zhonghua 3rd Rd, Qianjin District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/509
25. Meinong District
The Meinong District in Kaohsiung is famous for its production of oil-paper umbrellas and pottery. It’s easily accessible from outside Kaohsiung City by bus, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. A must-visit spot in Meinong is Yongan Old Street, where you can see traditional red-brick houses and get a glimpse of the old-town atmosphere.
The well-preserved residence of Lin Chun-yu, known as the "Tobacco King," is another must-see. The Meinong Hakka Cultural Museum, which introduces the unique lifestyle and culture of the Hakka people, is a popular attraction. Visitors can also participate in hands-on experiences, such as making oil-paper umbrellas or pottery at the Meinong Folk Village.
While in Meinong, make sure to try the local Hakka cuisine at a restaurant for lunch. With its thriving agriculture, Meinong offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature, making it a charming place to explore. Arrive early to visit the traditional morning market and enjoy a stroll through the calm, scenic streets of Meinong.
Name: Meinong District (Meinong Hakka Cultural Museum)
Address: No. 49-3, Minzu Rd, Meinong District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002016&id=a12-00107
26. Qishan District
The Qishan District in Kaohsiung is a charming suburban town that’s highly recommended for a combined visit with Meinong District. One of the most popular attractions in Qishan is Qishan Old Street, a historic street lined with Baroque-style buildings. Its unique atmosphere makes it a favorite among visitors.
A typical tourist activity in Qishan is strolling along the old street and sampling snacks made from Qishan’s famous bananas. You’ll even find some unique banana varieties. The old street is also home to many Taiwanese eateries, so it’s a great place to stop for lunch.
For those interested in learning more about Qishan’s banana industry, a visit to the Qishan Living Cultural Center is a must. Located in a former elementary school, the center features exhibits on Qishan’s history and the local banana industry. Next, explore the former Qishan Railway Station, built in 1911, with its charming exterior and souvenir shops inside. You can easily reach Qishan by bus from Kaohsiung city.
By the way, the local bananas in Qishan are sweeter and tastier than those available in Japan. This is because the bananas shipped to Japan are harvested before reaching full sweetness due to transportation time. Be sure to experience the true taste of Taiwan bananas in Qishan!
Name: Qishan District
Address: Qishan District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/432
27. Fongyi Tutorial Academy
The Fongyi Tutorial Academy was established in 1814 in Fengshan District, Kaohsiung, as a school for students preparing for the Imperial Examination (a test for becoming government officials). It is the largest existing tutorial academy in Taiwan, and after recent renovations, it has become a prominent tourist attraction in Kaohsiung.
The academy grounds feature life-sized dolls depicting scenes from its historical past. Visitors are free to take photos, making it a great spot for capturing memories. Inside, there are classrooms, exam rooms, dormitories for students, and exhibits showcasing the history of Keju (Imperial Examination) and Fengshan. You can even try a traditional Taiwanese fortune-telling experience.
Fongyi Tutorial Academy is located in Fengshan District, to the west of central Kaohsiung. When visiting, you can easily reach the academy on foot from Fengshan Station on the KRT Orange Line, making it very accessible.
If you have extra time, consider also visiting the Dadong Arts Center nearby. The Dadong Arts Center Library, which specializes in arts-related books, features a unique architectural design and is a well-known spot in Kaohsiung.
Name: Fongyi Tutorial Academy
Address: No. 62, Fengming St, Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City
Official/Related Website URL: https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/440
Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Kaohsiung, as a tourist city, offers a different charm compared to Taipei. It strikes a perfect balance between modern urban sophistication and the nostalgic beauty of old Taiwan landscapes.
It’s also worth extending your trip to the Kenting resort area, Taiwan’s top coastal destination, located just outside Kaohsiung. Kenting is home to Taiwan’s largest National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, as well as other ocean-themed activities like submarine rides. Another popular day trip destination from Kaohsiung is Xiaoliuqiu, a small island known for its beautiful coastlines, caves, and bamboo forest trails.
With so many attractions packed into one area, Kaohsiung is a must-visit destination!
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