Kaohsiung

Taiwan, Asia

Kaohsiung, Taiwan's vibrant harbor city, enchants visitors with stunning coastal views and a thriving arts scene. Known for the iconic 85 Sky Tower and the sprawling Liuhe Night Market, it offers a feast for the senses. Highlights include the picturesque Cijin Island, natural wonders at Kenting National Park, and the enlightening Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. With a mix of traditional culture and modern flair, Kaohsiung is a delightful destination for those looking to explore urban life infused with nature and history.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kaohsiung

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Kaohsiung

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Liuhe Night Market

Experience local street food and vibrant night market culture.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

See the world's largest sitting Buddha and learn about Buddhism.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a ferry to Cijin Island

Enjoy beaches, seafood, and local culture on Cijin Island.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Pier-2 Art Center

Discover contemporary art installations and creative spaces.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dome of Light

Marvel at the stunning glass dome in Formosa Boulevard Station.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Love River

Enjoy a scenic riverside walk or boat ride at sunset.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the National Science and Technology Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits on science and technology.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb to the top of Shoushan

Hike for stunning views of Kaohsiung and beyond.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Dream Mall

Discover Taiwan's largest shopping mall with entertainment options.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts

Explore contemporary art in a spacious gallery setting.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar

Majority religion

No majority

Language

Mandarin

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Beef Noodle Soup

Noodles in beef broth with spices. (National dish)

Gua Bao

Pork belly in a steamed bun with toppings.

Oyster Omelette

Omelette with oysters and vegetables.

Bubble Tea

VE

Sweet tea with chewy tapioca pearls.

Stinky Tofu

VE

Fermented tofu with a strong odor.

Phrases to learn

English

Mandarin

Hello

Nǐ hǎo

(Nee how)

Yes/No

Shi / Bushi

(Shi / Boo-shi)

Thank you

Xièxiè

(Shyeh-shyeh)

Excuse me

Duìbuqǐ

(Doo-ay-boo-chee)

How much?

Duōshǎo qián?

(Dwoh-shao chyen)