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Where to Stay in Kaohsiung

Where to Stay in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung Takao, Taiwan Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Popular Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, social atmosphere, notably around Kaohsiung Main Station.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    3-4 star hotels with good amenities, frequently near MRT stations.

  • Luxury Hotels

    International chains Grand Hi-Lai, Silks Club, InterContinental Kaohsiung.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Stylish designs, unique themes, personalized service.

Unique Local Stays

  • Minsu (民宿)

    Staying with a local family or guesthouses, smaller, locally run, more personal.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Self-catering units for longer stays, families, or groups, with kitchen facilities.

  • Chances For homestays

    Less common in central Kaohsiung, but certain platforms might facilitate cultural immersion.

  • Camping

    Limited within the city, facilities exist in surrounding national parks.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area is a distinct character and set of advantages.

Central Kaohsiung

Advantages
  • Unbeatable access to MRT, TRA, bus.
  • Abundance of food options and shops.
  • Excellent transportation hub.
  • Budget to mid-range hotels.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy due to central location.
  • Less scenic than waterfront areas.
  • Bustling urban environment.
  • Mix of old and new buildings.

Sizihwan/Gushan District

Advantages
  • Enjoy scenic views.
  • Relaxed atmosphere.
  • Proximity to Former British Consulate.
  • Ferry access to Cijin Island.
Considerations
  • Slightly further from central MRT lines.
  • Crowded during peak tourist times.
  • University area activity.
  • Less immediate nightlife.

Love River/Qianjin District

Advantages
  • Beautiful river views.
  • Pleasant for evening strolls.
  • Access to Pier-2 Art Center.
  • Good dining options.
Considerations
  • Accommodation be pricier.
  • Can draw crowds for functions.
  • More upscale ambiance.
  • Focus on cultural venues.

Additional Neighborhood Insights

Lingya/Sanduo Shopping District

Modern, commercial, with high-rise buildings and major large retail stores. Excellent for shopping, upscale dining, and luxury hotels.

Cijin Island

A laid-back island vibe with beaches, fresh seafood, and a historic lighthouse and fort. Unique experience, limited accommodation options.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking practices secure the best accommodations and rates for your Kaohsiung trip.

Advance Booking & Platforms

  • High Season (Oct-Apr & Holidays): Book 3-6 months ahead.
  • Shoulder/Low Season: 1-2 months ahead remains recommended for choice.
  • Trusted Platforms: Use Booking.com, Agoda, and Sites like expedia.
  • Direct Websites: Sometimes feature exclusive promotions.

Policies & Fluctuations

  • Negotiation: Not customary for established hotels for walk-in rates.
  • Deposit Policies: Vary by platform and hotel, review them carefully.
  • Cancellation Policies: Many platforms free cancellation up to a certain date.
  • Seasonal Prices: Highest during high season and major holidays.

Specialized Stay Options

For Solo Travelers
  • Hostels D'well Hostel or Backpackers Inn foster a social atmosphere.
  • Hotels near MRT stations offer safety and easy exploration.
  • Consider Single Inn Kaohsiung for a capsule hotel stay.
  • Meeting other travelers easy in common areas.
For Longer Stays
  • Vacation rentals (apartments) or serviced apartments present value.
  • Facilities for extended stays, often with kitchenettes.
  • Some hotels provide special long-stay rates.
  • More space and home-like amenities.

Cultural & Family Considerations

Unique Properties

Look for boutique hotels in Yancheng or Gushan districts often housed in renovated heritage buildings, a blend of past and present.

Family-Friendly Options

Hotels with larger rooms or suites. Resorts with swimming pools, like Marriott Kaohsiung or E-Da Skylark Hotel, cater well to families.

Homestay Experience

Minsu (guesthouses) offer a personal experience; more common outside the city, but some urban options exist.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are recommendations tailored to different traveler types and budgets.

Budget-Friendly Options

D'well Hostel

Near Formosa Boulevard, offering clean, affordable options.

  • Social atmosphere.
  • Good for solo travelers.
  • Central location.
  • Both dorms and private rooms.
Single Inn Kaohsiung

A capsule hotel near Kaohsiung Main Station.

  • Compact and efficient.
  • Cheap prices.
  • Modern amenities.
  • Privacy in capsules.

Mid-Range Options

Kindness Hotel Chain

Multiple locations, providing good for the price and consistent service.

  • Reliable service.
  • Comfortable rooms.
  • Strategic locations.
  • Good amenities.
Ambassador Hotel Kaohsiung & City Suites Pier 2

Ambassador with Love Riverside scenery, City Suites near the art center.

  • Comfortable stays.
  • Scenic surroundings.
  • Access to cultural sites.
  • Modern facilities.

Luxury Experiences

  • Grand Hi-Lai Hotel

    Premium experiences with excellent amenities and city views.

  • Silks Club

    High-end services, premium facilities, often impressive city views.

  • InterContinental Kaohsiung

    Offers high-end services and luxury stay options.

  • Marriott Kaohsiung

    Another international luxury option with extensive amenities.

Family & Long-Stay Picks

  • E-Da Skylark Hotel

    Near E-Da Theme Park, catering well to families with activities.

  • Vacation Rentals

    More space and home-like amenities for families or groups.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Offer great value and facilities for longer stays.

  • Long-Stay Rates

    Some hotels provide special rates for extended stays.

Boutique & Cultural Stays

Yancheng & Gushan Districts

Home to boutique hotels in renovated historical buildings, offering a blend of past and present.

  • Unique architectural styles.
  • Deep cultural connection.
  • Personalized service.
  • Historic charm.
Art-Focused Accommodations

Some accommodations or inns near Pier-2 Art Center incorporate local art into their design.

  • Inspirational interiors.
  • Proximity to galleries.
  • Creative ambiance.
  • Support local artists.

Getting to Your Stay

MRT Access

Many hotels are just a walk from MRT stations, making city travel straightforward.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

Easily hail taxis or use local ride-sharing apps for direct transit to your lodging.

Airport Transfers

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) has direct MRT links to the city center.