3-Day Adventure: Exploring the Wonders of Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Kaohsiung, Taiwan

3 days

Lotus pond
Buddha statue at the Fo Guang Shan Buddha memorial center
Spring and autumn pavillions
Fo Guang Shan Buddha museum
Dome of Light

About Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Experience the vibrant city of Kaohsiung, Taiwan's southern gem. As the second largest city, Kaohsiung boasts a blend of modern skyscrapers, traditional markets, and lush parks. Explore the Love River, a charming waterway lined with cafes and art installations. Visit the Lotus Pond, home to numerous temples including the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Don't miss the Pier-2 Art Center, a hub of creativity in converted warehouses. Enjoy panoramic city views from the 85 Sky Tower, or immerse yourself in local culture at the Liuhe Night Market. With a warm climate year-round, Kaohsiung is an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Kaohsiung has something for everyone.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Love River and Pier-2 Art Center

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Love River, a beautiful and serene spot perfect for a morning stroll. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the lovely views of the cityscape.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Taiwanese lunch in a local restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like braised pork rice and oyster omelette.

Afternoon

Visit the Pier-2 Art Center, a vibrant and creative space filled with art installations, exhibitions, and shops selling unique crafts.

Dinner

Have dinner in a night market, where you can try a variety of street food, from grilled seafood to sweet desserts.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Kaohsiung Light Show, a spectacular display of lights and music that takes place every night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, a magnificent Buddhist complex with a giant Buddha statue and beautiful gardens.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, where you can try some vegetarian dishes inspired by Buddhist cuisine.

Afternoon

Explore the Lotus Pond, a scenic area filled with temples, pagodas, and the famous Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner in a local restaurant. Kaohsiung is known for its fresh and delicious seafood.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the Kaohsiung Harbor and enjoy the beautiful night view of the city.

Morning

Visit the Cijin Island, a popular destination for its beautiful beach, historic lighthouse, and seafood markets.

Lunch

Have lunch in a seafood restaurant on Cijin Island, where you can enjoy fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.

Afternoon

Explore the Old City of Zuoying, where you can see traditional Taiwanese houses and the beautiful Spring and Autumn Pavilions.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant in Zuoying, where you can try some traditional Taiwanese dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Dome of Light, the world's largest public art installation made from pieces of colored glass.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Love River

1
Love River

A beautiful river that runs through the city, with parks and cafes along its banks.

Attractions
Parks
Pier-2 Art Center

2
Pier-2 Art Center

A former warehouse district turned into a vibrant arts and culture hub.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Kaohsiung Light Show

3
Kaohsiung Light Show

A stunning light show that illuminates the city's skyline, offering a mesmerizing spectacle of colors and patterns.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

4
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

A museum that houses a collection of Buddha statues and relics, and offers a glimpse into Buddhist culture and history.

Attractions
Museums
Religious Sites
Lotus Pond

5
Lotus Pond

A scenic area featuring a large lake, several temples, and pagodas. It's known for its iconic Dragon and Tiger pagodas.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

6
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Two beautiful pagodas located on Lotus Lake, adorned with traditional Chinese dragon and tiger motifs.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Cijin Island

7
Cijin Island

A small island offering beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and a historic lighthouse.

Attractions
Beaches
Landmarks
Old City of Zuoying

8
Old City of Zuoying

The Old City of Zuoying is a historic area known for its traditional architecture, old streets, and cultural landmarks. It's a great place to explore and learn about the city's history and culture.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Dome of Light

9
Dome of Light

Located at the Formosa Boulevard MRT Station, the Dome of Light is the world's largest public art installation made from pieces of colored glass. It's a must-see attraction for its stunning visual display.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Danzai Noodles

Danzai Noodles

A popular noodle dish in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring noodles served in a savory broth with minced pork and shrimp.

Oyster Omelette

Oyster Omelette

A famous street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and spicy sauce.

Stinky Tofu

Stinky Tofu

A must-try for adventurous eaters, this fermented tofu dish is a common sight at night markets in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Pineapple Cake

Pineapple Cake

A sweet, tangy dessert made with pineapple jam and a buttery, shortbread-like crust. It's a popular souvenir from Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Bubble Tea

Bubble Tea

Originating from Taiwan, this sweet drink consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It's a must-try when visiting Kaohsiung.

Braised Pork Rice

Braised Pork Rice

A comforting dish in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring tender, flavorful pork belly cooked in soy sauce and spices, served over rice.

Taiwanese Fried Chicken

Taiwanese Fried Chicken

A popular street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, this dish features large pieces of chicken that are marinated, battered, and deep-fried to perfection.

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, spicy broth. It's a staple in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Taiwanese Sausage

Taiwanese Sausage

A sweet and savory sausage that's a popular street food in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It's often served with raw garlic for an extra flavor kick.

Taiwan Beer

Taiwan Beer

The national beer of Taiwan, this lager is a refreshing choice for a night out in Kaohsiung.

Shaved Ice Dessert

Shaved Ice Dessert

A popular dessert in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring a mound of shaved ice topped with sweet syrups, fruit, and other toppings.

Taiwanese Breakfast Sandwich

Taiwanese Breakfast Sandwich

A typical breakfast in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, featuring a sandwich made with eggs, bacon, and cheese, served on a fluffy, sweet bun.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Kaohsiung, Taiwan is from October to April. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing, with less rainfall compared to the summer months. The temperatures during this period range from 20°C to 29°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. However, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip as weather can sometimes be unpredictable.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

Republic Day/New Year's Day

February 8

Thu

Lunar New Year Holiday

February 9

Fri

Lunar New Year's Eve

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year's Day

February 11

Sun

Lunar New Year Holiday

February 12

Mon

Lunar New Year Holiday

February 13

Tue

Lunar New Year Holiday

February 14

Wed

Lunar New Year Holiday

February 28

Wed

Peace Memorial Day

April 4

Thu

Tomb Sweeping Day

April 4

Thu

Children's Day

June 10

Mon

Dragon Boat Festival

September 17

Tue

Mid-Autumn Festival

October 10

Thu

National Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Kaohsiung has a well-developed metro system, known as the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit System (KRTS). It is the most efficient way to travel around the city, with two lines (Red and Orange) covering most of the main attractions.

Kaohsiung's bus network is extensive and covers areas not reached by the metro. Buses are equipped with English announcements and signs, making it easy for tourists to navigate.

Taxis are plentiful in Kaohsiung and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to travel, especially for short distances or if you're carrying heavy luggage.

Kaohsiung is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and rental stations. The city's public bike rental system, C-bike, allows you to rent a bike from one station and return it at another.

Uber operates in Kaohsiung, providing another convenient option for getting around. Simply download the app, input your destination, and a driver will pick you up.

For a unique way to see the city, consider taking a ferry ride across the Love River or to the nearby Cijin Island. The ferry terminals are easily accessible and offer beautiful views of the city and harbor.

Many of Kaohsiung's attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the downtown area. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the local atmosphere.

The Kaohsiung Light Rail, also known as the Circular Line, is a newer addition to the city's public transportation system. It offers a scenic route around the city, passing by many popular attractions and offering stunning views of the harbor.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyNT$ TWD

Time zoneUTC+8

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage110 V

Things to know about Kaohsiung, Taiwan as a first time visitor

1

Kaohsiung is the second largest city in Taiwan, known for its bustling port, modern architecture, and diverse cultures.

2

The official language is Mandarin, but many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien. English is not widely spoken, so it's a good idea to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases.

3

The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

4

Kaohsiung has a tropical monsoon climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). Winters (December to February) are mild and dry with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C).

5

Typhoon season is from June to October. It's advisable to check the weather forecast regularly during this period.

6

Kaohsiung is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, especially at night.

7

The city has an efficient public transportation system, including the Kaohsiung MRT, buses, and ferries. You can also rent bicycles or scooters for short distances.

8

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan. However, some hotels and restaurants may include a 10% service charge in the bill.

9

Taiwan has a 110V, 60Hz electricity supply. The plug type is A or B, so you may need an adapter.

10

Taiwanese food is a blend of various Asian cuisines. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and bubble tea.

11

Night markets are a big part of Taiwanese culture. Kaohsiung has several night markets where you can shop for clothes, accessories, and try street food.

12

Taiwan has strict laws against littering. Always dispose of your trash in designated bins.

13

Tap water in Kaohsiung is generally safe to drink, but most locals and tourists prefer to drink bottled water.

14

Taiwan has a universal healthcare system. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

15

Taiwan is in the Taiwan Time zone (GMT+8), and does not observe daylight saving time.

16

Kaohsiung has a vibrant arts scene. You'll find many art galleries, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year.

17

Taiwanese people are generally polite and reserved. It's important to respect local customs and traditions.

18

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places in Taiwan. There are designated smoking areas in some outdoor public places.

19

Internet access is widely available in Kaohsiung. Many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi.

20

Taiwan has strict laws against drug use. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties.

Basic Mandarin Chinese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

你好

Ni hao

Greeting someone

Goodbye

再見

Zai jian

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

謝謝

Xie xie

Showing appreciation

Please

Qing

Making a request

Yes

Shi

Agreeing or confirming

No

不是

Bu shi

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

對不起

Dui bu qi

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

我很抱歉

Wo hen bao qian

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

你會說英語嗎?

Ni hui shuo ying yu ma?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I don't understand

我不懂

Wo bu dong

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

洗手間在哪裡?

Xi shou jian zai na li?

Finding a restroom

How much does this cost?

這個多少錢?

Zhe ge duo shao qian?

Asking the price of something

I would like to order

我想要點菜

Wo xiang yao dian cai

Ordering food in a restaurant

Help

幫助

Bang zhu

In case of emergency

Call a doctor

叫醫生

Jiao yi sheng

In case of medical emergency

Can I use credit card?

我可以用信用卡嗎?

Wo ke yi yong xin yong ka ma?

Asking for payment methods

Where is the nearest hospital?

最近的醫院在哪裡?

Zui jin de yi yuan zai na li?

In case of medical emergency

Can you help me?

你能幫我嗎?

Ni neng bang wo ma?

Asking for help

I am lost

我迷路了

Wo mi lu le

When you are lost

Can I have the menu, please?

請給我菜單

Qing gei wo cai dan

Ordering food in a restaurant

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops for the beach

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic wipes

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized wet wipes

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes or shoes

  • Notepad and pen

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Kaohsiung, Taiwan, it's important to consider the city's subtropical climate. The weather here can be quite variable, so it's best to be prepared for a range of conditions. The city experiences a hot summer from June to September, with temperatures often reaching up to 95°F (35°C). During this time, it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and to stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor attractions. Don't forget to apply sunscreen regularly, as the sun can be quite strong. From October to December, the weather is generally cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 68°F (20°C) and 82°F (28°C). This is a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather. However, it's also the city's rainy season, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella. The winter months, from January to March, can be relatively cool with temperatures dropping to around 59°F (15°C). While this is not cold by many standards, the humidity can make it feel chillier than it actually is. Therefore, it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater. Finally, the spring season, from April to May, is warm and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C). It's a beautiful time to visit, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Kaohsiung is a coastal city, so the weather can change quickly. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and beautiful city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

24° / 14°

January is the coldest month in Kaohsiung, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

25° / 15°

February is still quite cool, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to explore the city without the heat.

March

28° / 18°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

April

32° / 22°

April is the start of the warm season, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit the beaches.

May

34° / 24°

May is quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

June

36° / 26°

June is the start of the summer, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for the heat.

July

36° / 26°

July is the peak of summer, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's hot and humid, so plan your activities accordingly.

August

36° / 26°

August continues the summer heat, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions to escape the heat.

September

35° / 25°

September is still quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. The weather is great for beach activities.

October

32° / 22°

October sees a decrease in temperature, ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to explore the city as the weather cools down.

November

28° / 18°

November is quite cool, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor activities without the heat.

December

25° / 15°

December is a cool month, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that Kaohsiung is the second largest city in Taiwan, after Taipei?

1 of 10

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