Things To Do
in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second-largest city, is a vibrant port city known for its blend of modernity and tradition. It boasts a stunning waterfront, lively night markets, and rich cultural landmarks, making it a must-visit destination. The city's tropical climate enhances its appeal, offering visitors year-round opportunities for exploration.

With its friendly locals and diverse attractions, Kaohsiung is an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Love River, taking a leisurely stroll along its banks. Stop by the Liuhe Night Market for a delicious Taiwanese breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the impressive Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, where you can learn about Buddhism and enjoy the serene surroundings. Afterward, head to the nearby Ruifeng Night Market for shopping and local snacks.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset cruise on the Love River, followed by dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin at the Shoushan National Nature Park, hiking to the top for breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

afternoon
:

Visit the National Science and Technology Museum to engage with interactive exhibits and learn about Taiwan's technological advancements. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Pier-2 Art Center, where you can explore art installations, enjoy live music, and dine at trendy restaurants.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Beef Noodle Soup$3
🌮Street Food Snack$1
🍵Bubble Tea$2
🚌Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and attractions
  • Delicious and diverse food options
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • High humidity in summer can be uncomfortable
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "幫我拍照" - Please take a photo for me

Places to Visit in Kaohsiung

Visit one of these nice places.

Love River

Capture the romantic scenery of the river, especially at sunset when the lights reflect on the water.

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

A majestic site featuring a giant Buddha statue, surrounded by beautiful gardens and architecture.

Pier-2 Art Center

An artistic hub filled with colorful murals and installations, perfect for creative photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of flavors influenced by its coastal location and cultural diversity. The city's night markets are a vibrant showcase of street food, while local restaurants provide a taste of traditional Taiwanese dishes.

Kaohsiung Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty dish featuring tender beef, flavorful broth, and chewy noodles.

Must-Try!

Oyster Omelette

A popular street food made with fresh oysters, eggs, and sweet potato starch.

Pineapple Cake

A sweet pastry filled with a tangy pineapple jam, perfect for souvenirs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Liuhe Night Market

One of the city's most famous night markets, bustling with food stalls offering a wide variety of local delicacies.

Ruifeng Night Market

A vibrant market known for its lively atmosphere and diverse food offerings, including fried snacks and bubble tea.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kaohsiung enjoys a tropical climate with hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a distinct rainy season. Summer temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), while winter averages around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Rainfall is most common from May to September, particularly during typhoon season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to the elderly, using polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance in conversations, as personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kaohsiung is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, it's advisable to stay alert and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places is also recommended.

Tipping in Kaohsiung

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in markets and small eateries.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to explore parks and outdoor attractions.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for enjoying beaches and water activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Winter

Mild winter temperatures make it comfortable for sightseeing, though it may get chilly in the evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Kaohsiung at Night

Kaohsiung's nightlife is vibrant and varied, offering everything from bustling night markets to chic bars and clubs. The Pier-2 Art Center often hosts live music and art events, while the Liuhe Night Market is perfect for late-night snacking. For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, riverside bars offer a relaxed atmosphere with scenic views.

Hiking in Kaohsiung

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cijin Island Trail

A scenic trail on Cijin Island that offers stunning views of the ocean and city skyline.

Shoushan Trail

A popular hiking route that leads to the summit of Shoushan, providing panoramic views of Kaohsiung.

Airports

How to reach Kaohsiung by plane.

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)

Located about 10 km from downtown, this airport serves domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kaohsiung is quite walkable, particularly in the downtown area where attractions like the Love River and night markets are within easy reach. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some areas may require using public transportation or taxis to cover longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

Taiwan is home to several indigenous groups, each with its own unique cultures and traditions.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Kaohsiung for job opportunities, contributing to a vibrant urban culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Taiwan has a strong baseball culture, and Kaohsiung is home to the Uni-President Lions, a professional team.

Basketball

With a growing interest in basketball, local schools and communities often host games and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kaohsiung can be congested during peak hours, especially in the downtown area. Public transportation options include buses, MRT (mass rapid transit), and taxis, making it easy to navigate the city. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with bike lanes available in several areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaohsiung.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in night markets.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, rice dishes and fresh fruits are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kaohsiung is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. The National Health Insurance system provides affordable access to medical services for residents and visitors. English-speaking staff may be limited, so it's advisable to have a basic understanding of Mandarin or bring a translator app.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide