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Things to Do in Kaohsiung

Things to Do in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung Takao, Taiwan Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Kaohsiung's natural surroundings with various outdoor activities.

Hiking & Wildlife

Shoushan Trails

Various trails, from easy walks to moderate hikes, providing rewarding city and ocean views.

Macaque Observation

Observe Formosan rock macaques in their natural habitat within Shoushan National Natural Park.

Water Sports

Cijin Beach for swimming/sunbathing; Love River for gondola rides or pedal boats. Surfing nearby.

Cycling Exploration

  • Lotus Pond: Dedicated cycling path around the lake having picturesque vistas.
  • Cijin Island: Flat, scenic cycling routes along the coast for leisure.
  • Love River: Riverside cycling paths provide a pleasant way to explore the waterfront.
  • YouBike 2.0 system: Convenient rentals for exploring these routes.

Shoushan National Park

  • Hiking trails for all ages.
  • Rewarding city and ocean views.
  • Opportunities for wildlife observation.
  • Most trails of moderate difficulty.

Cijin Island Cycling

  • Enjoy flat, scenic routes.
  • Explore along the coast.
  • Ideal for a leisurely ride.
  • Bike rentals readily available.

Love River Activities

  • Experience gondola rides.
  • Enjoy pedal boats.
  • Riverside cycling paths.
  • Pleasant for evening strolls.

Wildlife Respect

Observe Formosan rock macaques keeping your distance respectfully and never feed the animals. Feeding wild animals can be harmful to them and may cause aggressive behavior.

Cultural Immersion

Learn more about Kaohsiung and Taiwanese culture through various immersive experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Pier-2 Art Center: Occasionally provides art or craft workshops.
  • Meinong: Participate in workshops for traditional Hakka oil paper umbrellas.
  • Cooking Classes: Focus on Taiwanese cuisine, hands-on experience.
  • Language Learning: Local universities may offer short-term Mandarin courses.

Festivals & Ceremonies

Chinese New Year

Experience temple fairs and family gatherings (late Jan/Feb).

Lantern Festival

Celebrated with elaborate lantern displays, specifically at Fo Guang Shan (Feb/Mar).

Dragon Boat Festival

Witness thrilling dragon boat races on the Love River (June).

Weiwuying Arts Center

Hosts a wide range of local and international performances, including theater, opera, and dance.

Temple Rituals

Observe daily rituals and ceremonies at local temples, an insight into spiritual practices.

Meinong Hakka Culture

Explore Hakka traditions, offering a sense of their distinct cultural practices.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate in Kaohsiung.

Local Wellness

  • Health AND Wellness Centers: Luxury hotels often feature high-end spa facilities.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Some bachelor apartments in Kaohsiung offer yoga classes.
  • Fo Guang Shan: The Buddha Museum has meditation halls.
  • TCM Clinics: Traditional Chinese Medicine clinics offer acupuncture, herbal medicine.

Natural Therapy

Hot Spring Day Trips

Hot springs are not within Kaohsiung city. Day trips to Guanziling (mud springs) or Baolai (traditional hot springs) are possible.

Beach Relaxation

Cijin Beach provides a space for general relaxation and sunbathing.

Hotel Pools

Many mid-range to luxury hotels feature swimming pools for guests to unwind.

Wellness Insights

Massage Parlors

Local massage parlors offer various services, including foot and full-body massages, widely available throughout the city.

Traditional Healing

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics offer treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, and cupping.

Relaxation Spots

Urban parks, riverside areas, and temple grounds offer tranquil spaces for quiet reflection and unwinding.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Kaohsiung's evenings range from live music to bustling evening markets.

Live Entertainment

  • Kaohsiung Music Center: Major venue for concerts and shows.
  • Smaller Live Houses: Found in zones like Pier-2, Yancheng, or near universities.
  • National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying): Premier venue for theater, opera, and dance.
  • Kaohsiung Cultural Center: Also hosts various performances and cultural events.

Evening Hangouts

Bars & Pubs

Areas around the Love River and Pier-2 Art Center feature a range of bars and pubs.

KTV Karaoke Television

A very popular local pastime, offering private rooms for singing with friends.

Night Markets

Operate late into the night, providing food, shopping, and entertainment for all.

Bar Scene

A selection of bars and pubs exists in the Lingya and Qianjin districts for evening enjoyment.

Music & Dance

While fewer large-scale options compared to Taipei, nightclubs are present in commercial districts.

Festival Evenings

Occasional cultural festivals and events feature special performances and evening activities.

Late Night Conveniences

7-Eleven and FamilyMart convenience stores are open 24/7 for snacks, drinks, and other necessities, specifically useful late at night.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Kaohsiung's diverse shopping scene, from traditional markets to modern malls.

Traditional Finds

  • Sanfong Central Street: Historic market for dried goods, spices.
  • Guanghua Night Market: Food-focused, also clothes and add-ons.
  • Pier-2 Art Center: Stores that sell local designer goods, crafts, art.
  • Meinong: Famous for its oil paper umbrellas and other Hakka crafts.

Modern & Luxury

Department Stores

Hanshin Department Store, Dream Mall, and E-Da Outlet Mall offer a range of brands.

Boutique Shops

Find unique boutique shops in zones like Pier-2 or in smaller alleys of the Lingya district.

Luxury Brands

International luxury and high-end brands are present within major shopping complexes.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans and small businesses.
  • Your spending directly benefits the community.
  • Avoid purchasing items from endangered species.
  • Look for products with fair trade certification.

Shipping Guidance

  • Major post offices offer international shipping services.
  • Awareness of home country's customs regulations.
  • Regarding food items, alcohol, and tobacco.
  • Avoid issues upon return back to your home country.

Unique Souvenirs

  • Meinong oil paper umbrellas.
  • Local art from Pier-2 Art Center.
  • Traditional Taiwanese snacks.
  • Handmade crafts and local designs.

Shopping for Specifics

Culinary Goods
  • High-quality local tea leaves.
  • Delicious pineapple cakes.
  • Specialty spices from Sanfong Central Street.
Arts & Crafts
  • Paintings and sculptures from local artists.
  • Hand-painted traditional fans.
  • Elegant calligraphy items.

Maximizing Your Shopping

Explore diverse markets and shopping districts for an entire retail experience, from traditional goods to modern luxury items.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Picks for Kaohsiung

  • Explore Lotus Pond and its symbolic pagodas.
  • Visit the Pier-2 Art Center.
  • Enjoy the laid-back charm of Cijin Island.
  • Savor assorted tastes at a bustling night market.

Practical Pointers

  • Utilize the efficient MRT system for city travel.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for extensive walking and exploration.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during warm weather months.
  • Carry a local map or use navigation apps for easy navigation.
Things to Do in Kaohsiung. Activities, Experiences, Adventures