MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Kaohsiung

Day Trips from Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung Takao, Taiwan Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

Expand your itinerary by visiting these accessible and rewarding locations from Kaohsiung.

Explore and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty just a short journey away.

Locations

  • Tainan: Taiwan's oldest city, rich in history, ancient temples, and traditional snacks. A 30-minute THSR ride away.
  • Kenting National Park: Southernmost Taiwan, renowned for beaches, surfing, and national park scenery. Approximately a 2-hour bus or private car journey.
  • Xiaoliuqiu (Little Liuqiu): A coral island popular for snorkeling with green sea turtles. Catch a ferry from Donggang, a 40-minute drive from Kaohsiung.
  • Meinong: Explore Hakka culture and traditions, famous for oil paper umbrellas and traditional architecture. About a 1-hour drive from Kaohsiung.

Planning Your Excursions

Effective planning for your day trips ensures a rewarding travel experience from Kaohsiung.

Independent Exploration

Enjoy the freedom to craft your own schedule and explore at your own speed, discovering hidden gems.

Considerations

  • Flexible pace for personal discovery.
  • Personal research for transport and logistics.
  • Opportunities for unexpected local interactions.

Organized Convenience

A structured option that handles all the details, perfect for specific destinations or if the time period is a concern.

Advantages

  • All-inclusive packages covering highlights.
  • No transport worries, especially in areas with limited public transit like Maolin.
  • Guided insights from local experts.

Crafting Your Day Trips

Full-Day Adventures 8-12 hours

  • Tainan: Explore Anping Fort, Chihkan Tower, Confucius Temple, and local food.
  • Kenting: Enjoy beaches, Eluanbi Lighthouse, and Chuhuo (eternal flames).
  • Xiaoliuqiu: Snorkeling with sea turtles and island cycling.
  • Maolin: Witness the Purple Crow Butterfly Valley (seasonal).

Half-Day Explorations 4-6 hours

  • Meinong: Immerse in Hakka culture and one-of-a-kind crafts.
  • Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum: Spiritual and cultural exploration.
  • Fengyi Academy: Visit a well-preserved Qing Dynasty school.
  • Shoushan National Natural Park: Hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Budgetary Insights for Excursions

  • THSR to Tainan:Mid-range
  • Kenting Express Bus:Budget-friendly
  • Xiaoliuqiu Ferry:Low cost
  • Private Car Rental:Higher cost
  • Local Eateries:Budget-friendly
  • Guided Day Tours:Varies widely
  • Entrance Fees:Minimal
  • Souvenirs:Personal choice

Seamless Booking for Your Adventures

Investigate and book your perfect outings and day trips with ease through GetYourGuide.

Natural Escapes

Southern Taiwan has beautiful natural landscapes for a revitalizing break from city life.

Protected Parks

Shoushan National Natural Park and Zhongdu Wetlands Park conserve unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Scenic Coastal Drives

Discover stunning coastal views along the route south towards Kenting's azure waters.

Diverse Landscapes

From the beaches of Kenting to the mountainous areas of Maolin, varied terrain awaits your exploration.

Featured Natural Areas

Southern Taiwan is home to several natural wonders, each offering a distinct appeal for nature lovers.

Highlights

  • Kenting National Park: Diverse ecosystems, coastal views, and verdant woodlands.
  • Shoushan National Natural Park: Within Kaohsiung, offers walking paths and city viewpoints.
  • Xiaoliuqiu: A coral island paradise perfect for marine activities.

Seasonal Wonders

Experience unique natural phenomena that change with Taiwan's seasons, adding a special touch to your visit.

Spectacular Events

  • Purple Crow Butterfly Valley (Maolin): Millions of butterflies migrate from November to March.
  • Coastal Sunrises/Sunsets: Daily spectacles along the Kenting coastline and Sizihwan Bay.
  • Lush Greenery: Verdant landscapes flourish during the warmer, rainier months.

Cultural Excursions

Tainan: Oldest city, rich history and ancient sites.Full Day
Meinong: Hakka culture, traditional crafts.Half Day
Fengyi Academy: Qing Dynasty school.Half Day
Fo Guang Shan: Major Buddhist monastery.Half Day
Liugui Hot Springs: Relaxation in nature.Full Day
Maolin National Scenic Area: Indigenous culture and nature.Full Day

Embrace Nature's Splendor

  • Explore diverse ecosystems from coastal shores to mountainous terrains.
  • Witness unique seasonal phenomena, like butterfly migrations.
  • Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and cycling.
  • Support environmental protection in the area by visiting protected parks.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip beyond Kaohsiung to discover more of Taiwan's wonders.

Regional Exploration

Expand your itinerary with short stays in nearby cities, deepening your appreciation for Taiwan's diversity.

Recommended Additions 1-3 Days

  • 2-3 days in Tainan: Explore extensive historical sites and the diverse food scene.
  • 2-3 days in Kenting: Enjoy beaches, water sports, and the national park's relaxed atmosphere.
  • 2-3 days combined: Tainan and Alishan National Scenic Area for sunrise and tea plantations.

Connecting Journeys

Taiwan's efficient transportation network makes moving between major destinations straightforward and enjoyable.

Transportation Connections

  • THSR: Connects Kaohsiung (Zuoying) to Tainan and Taipei efficiently.
  • TRA Trains: Link to Alishan (via Chiayi) and the stunning East Coast (Taitung, Hualien).
  • Intercity Buses: Comprehensive network for reaching smaller towns and rural areas.

Western Corridor Route

A classic route covering Taiwan's major cities and cultural highlights from south to north.

Journey Stages

  • Kaohsiung: Start with the vibrant southern metropolis.
  • Tainan: Dive into Taiwan's historical heart.
  • Chiayi (for Alishan): Access to mountainous vistas and tea plantations.
  • Taipei: Conclude in the bustling capital city.

East Coast Route

Experience Taiwan's stunning natural scenery and a more relaxed pace by its beautiful eastern seaboard.

Coastal Exploration

  • Kaohsiung: Begin your journey from the south.
  • Kenting: Enjoy the tropical beaches before heading north.
  • Taitung: Known for indigenous culture and hot springs.
  • Hualien: The gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park.

Flexible Itinerary Planning

Tailor your extended adventure with additional stops and assorted modes of transport to match your preferences.

Coastal Views

Discover stunning oceanic vistas and seaside towns along Taiwan's diverse shores.

Mountain Retreats

Find tranquility and magnificent scenery in Taiwan's central sierras.

Unlock Further Adventures

These routes offer a framework for longer regional travel, allowing for a dive into Taiwan's a mix of terrains and traditions.

Natural Escapes

Southern Taiwan has beautiful natural landscapes for a refreshing break from city life.

Exploring Southern Taiwan's Outdoors

1

Kenting National Park

Offers diverse ecosystems and stunning coastal scenery, perfect for beach activities and exploration.

2

Shoushan National Natural Park

Located within Kaohsiung, provides convenient hiking trails and panoramic city and sea views.

3

Maolin & Liugui Districts

Mountainous areas that present beautiful scenic drives, hiking opportunities, and cultural experiences.

Beaches & Coastal Wonders

  • Kenting: Famous for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
  • Xiaoliuqiu (Little Liuqiu): A unique coral island with exceptional snorkeling and diving spots.
  • Sizihwan Bay: A lovely bay within Kaohsiung, renowned for its stunning sunsets.
  • Cijin Island: Offers a long stretch of black sand beach, ideal for cycling and relaxation.
  • Coastal scenery along the southern route.
  • Water sports and marine activities.

Mountains & Rural Charm

  • Maolin National Scenic Area: Experience indigenouits heritage and the Purple Crow Butterfly Valley.
  • Liugui District: Discover hot springs and lush green mountain landscapes.
  • Meinong: Immerse yourself in rural Hakka life and agricultural settings.
  • Hiking trails in Shoushan National Natural Park.
  • Scenic drives through the tranquil countryside.
  • Local agricultural experiences and fresh produce.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Purple Crow Butterflies

Witness millions of butterflies migrate to Maolin District from November to March, a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Kenting's Eternal Flames

Visit Chuhuo, a natural gas field where flames burn perpetually from cracks in the ground, specifically striking at night.

Sunset Views

Enjoy spectacular sunsets over Sizihwan Bay and by the western coast, painting the sky with colors.

Embrace Nature's Splendor

Southern Taiwan's diverse natural landscapes offer countless opportunities for outdoor activities, relaxation, and encountering unique wildlife.
← Previous
Things to Do in Kaohsiung
← Back to Kaohsiung
Next →
Kaohsiung Travel Tips

Next Up: Kaohsiung Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Continue to Kaohsiung Travel Tips