You're Going to Love Kaohsiung
Once a small fishing village, Kaohsiung today offers plenty of activities with its beaches, cafes, and wide streets.
The city represents a surprising contrast between its ancient temples and more modern structures such as the Dream Mall. Kaohsiung is a great base for side-trips if you want to see the more rural parts of the island or explore the west coast.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kaohsiung
1. The Cijin District
The Cijin District is an island across from the harbor. Take a ferry and relax at the beach or try one of the many snack stands or seafood restaurants.
2. The Cihou Lighthouse
The Cihou Lighthouse is an example of Baroque architecture that dates back to the late 19th century and the Qing Dynasty.
3. Fo Guang Shan and the Tianhou Temple
Fo Guang Shan is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. The Tianhou Temple is a 300-year-old temple where you can see folk art.
4. Shop at the Dream Mall
The Dream Mall is the largest shopping mall in Taiwan. If you get tired of shopping, hop on the Ferris wheel to see the city from above.
5. The Shoushan Monkey Mountain
You can hike on the Shoushan Monkey Mountain and observe monkeys in the wild. Some of them are not afraid to approach people and will grab snacks from you!
When to Visit Kaohsiung
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The weather in Kaohsiung is pleasant all year round. Temperatures are usually colder in January and February but the weather is still mild.
How to Get to Kaohsiung
Plane
The Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is located 5 miles south of the city center. A taxi from the airport to the city center will cost NT$300, or take the Mass Rapid Transit Red subway line.
Train
Kaohsiung is connected to the Taiwan High Speed Rail. You can take the train between Taipei and Kaohsiung for NT$1,500.
Car
Follow Expressway 1 from any of the cities located on the west coast to reach Kaohsiung.
Bus
Riding the bus is a convenient way to travel between the main cities in Taiwan. You can take the bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung for NT$530.
Airlines serving Kaohsiung
Where to stay in popular areas of Kaohsiung
Most booked hotels in Kaohsiung
How to Get Around Kaohsiung
Public Transportation
The Kaohsiung MRT subway system includes two lines that are connected to several bus stops. Fare is based on distance and starts at NT$20.
Taxi
Taxis are a convenient way to get around Kaohsiung. Fare starts at NT$85 and an additional NT$30 per mile thereafter.
Car
You will find some Avis outlets at the airport where you can rent a car for approximately NT$20,000 a day. Renting a scooter will cost you NT$400 to NT$600 a day.
Car rental agencies in Kaohsiung
The Cost of Living in Kaohsiung
Shopping Streets
The Dream Mall and E-DA Outlet Mall are the best places to shop for clothes, accessories, and electronics. The Rueifeng and Liuhe night markets are great for souvenir hunting.
Groceries and Other
You will find Carrefour and Jason's Market Place everywhere in the city. Expect to spend NT$40 for a loaf of bread and NT$250 for a pound of ground beef.
Where to Eat in Kaohsiung
Head to Gang Yuan Beef Noodles for a traditional eatery experience. Boston and Pasadena French Cuisine are excellent choices for upscale dining. An affordable meal should cost NT$80, while a meal in an upscale restaurant can cost NT$500 or more.