Getting There
Unless you are driving, the best way to go to Kaohsiung is by taking the train, the trip last about 2h from Taipei .
The price depend if you take the local train or the high speed train, and also where you coming from, I personally took the train from Tainan the trip last 1h, and the ticket fare was 160 NT$ or 5 US$ .
Accomodation In Kaohsiung
I personally stay in two different hotel, the first time I stayed at the River inn hotel on the Zhongshan 1st road, about 15 minutes walk from the train station and 10 from the metro station.
The hotel is very convenient, but the room very small, there is no table in the room and the bathroom sink is in the room, I asked to change for a bigger room, but they apparently all small, the front desk wasn’t very helpful since they do not speak English.
Prices was 4500 NT$ or 150 US$, breakfast included, too expensive for the room size, I do not recommend it.
So I decide to move to the harmonious hotel, also know as everluckhotel, it’s the same company, about 1 block away from the River inn, and actually it was closer to the metro station, the room was bigger than the previous hotel, breakfast included, the breakfast quality was just ok, the front desk staff helpful even if they do not speak much English, but they try to help, the manager which speak English was very helpful, he even show me the room before I reserved and give me a very good hot pot restaurant address.
The price for the room was an average of NT$ 2140 or 60 US$.
Kaohsiung, second-largest city of Taiwan is located along the southwestern coast of Taiwan, facing the Taiwan Strait to the west.
The city is surrounded by luxurious mountains and hills, adding to its scenic beauty. The central part of Kaohsiung is flat, with the city sprawling around the Kaohsiung Harbor, while the eastern regions are marked by hills and ridges.
The area enjoys a tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination year-round.
One of Kaohsiung’s most notable geographical features is the Love River, which flows through the city.
The river, which is lined with palm trees and pedestrian walkways, is a central feature of Kaohsiung’s urban landscape, serving as both a scenic attraction and a historical symbol of the city’s development.
Historical Overview
Kaohsiung’s history can be traced back to the early 17th century when it was first settled by indigenous peoples.
The area was originally inhabited by the Makatao tribe, Kaohsiung developed as a small fishing village known as Takao during the Qing Dynasty.
The name “Kaohsiung” is believed to derive from the local indigenous words meaning “high mountain” or “mountain pass.
In the 1600s, during the Ming Dynasty, Chinese settlers began arriving.
The Dutch East India Company briefly controlled the area between 1624 and 1662, establishing it as an important port.
After the Dutch were ousted, the region came under the control of the Kingdom of Tungning, and later the Qing Dynasty.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century, during the Qing Dynasty, that Kaohsiung truly began to develop as a significant harbor city.
Under Japanese rule, Kaohsiung was transformed into a major port city, with significant industrial development and infrastructure improvements.
After World War II, Kaohsiung continued to grow as an industrial hub and major port. The city expanded rapidly, becoming the second-largest city in Taiwan.
The completion of the Kaohsiung Port in the early 20th century marked the city’s rise as a key player in Taiwan’s industrialization.
In the post-World War II era, after Taiwan’s relocation to the Republic of China government in 1949, Kaohsiung’s port continued to flourish, becoming one of the largest in Asia.
Things to Do.
Kaohsiung has become a cultural hub in recent years, with a burgeoning arts scene and a variety of events throughout the year.
The city’s commitment to fostering the arts is evident in its investments in cultural infrastructure, such as the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying), which opened in 2018.
This vast arts complex is one of the largest performing arts centers in Asia and hosts a wide range of events, from classical music performances to contemporary theater, dance, and experimental art.
Kaohsiung’s cultural events are a blend of traditional Taiwanese customs and modern international influences. The Kaohsiung Lantern Festival, held annually during the Lunar New Year, is one of the city’s most significant celebrations. Thousands of colorful lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival is not only a celebration of the New Year but also a tribute to Kaohsiung’s cultural heritage.
Additionally, the Kaohsiung Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema lovers from around the world. The event showcases a mix of international films, documentaries, and Taiwanese cinema, promoting both local talent and global perspectives.
Kaohsiung also embraces its maritime heritage with the International Maritime Week, which includes maritime parades, sailing competitions, and cultural exhibitions. The city’s history as a port and shipbuilding hub plays a significant role in its identity, and these events help keep its nautical traditions alive.
1.The Port City
2.Pier-2 Art District
3.Kaohsiung Music Center
4.Fo Guang Shan Buddha Monastery and Museum
5.Cijin Island
6.Sanfong Temple
7. Lotus Pond
Like other Taiwanese cities, the transportation in Kaohsiung are very well organized, there is even the green line which go all around the city which can be used for the main touristic attractions.
Map transportation
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1. The Port City.
Kaohsiung’s port has been a key economic engine for the city, and it remains one of the busiest and most important harbors in the world. Kaohsiung Harbor is one of the busiest ports in the world. The harbor itself is an industrial marvel and an important shipping port, offering a unique insight into Taiwan’s maritime heritage. It’s also a good place for a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, particularly from the Fengshan areas. The harbor area also features Liuhe Night Market nearby, where you can enjoy delicious street food after a day of exploration.
Getting There.
Take the metro red line to the R10 station, then take the orange line to yanchengpu station, or take the outside metro green line, the one who goes around the city and get off at the Penglai Pier 2 station.
2. Pier-2 Art District:
Getting There.
There is many options, depending where is your hotel, but the two easiest way, is taking the metro red line to the the R10 station, then take the orange line to yanchengpu statio station, from there you have about less then 10 minutes walk.
Or take the outside green line, the one who goes around the city and get off at the Penglai Pier 2 station.
Where to eat?
If it’s time for lunch for you, there is a lot’s of restaurant, good food quality and reasonable prices, there is a seafood restaurant across this building, opening late in the day.
Surrounding the harbor is the Pier-2 Art District, a sprawling former warehouse district that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and artistic hub.
Once a deserted industrial area, Pier-2 has now become a focal point for creativity, featuring art installations, galleries, and museums. The area is known for its blend of modern art and the remnants of Kaohsiung’s industrial past.
Make sure you have good shoes, because all attractions are spread on a large area.
Key Attractions in the Pier-2 Art District:
You can start by the turning bridge, very beautiful architecture, the bridge turn every 3 hours to lets the boats going through,
From the bridge very nice view from the all Pier 2 Art District.
The Pier-2 Art District is also home to various contemporary art spaces, including the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts and the Warehouse No. 16 Art Space, which showcase both local and international art.
There is lot’s Street Art, the entire area is a canvas for murals, graffiti, and installations that are often changed out regularly. The colorful and ever-changing nature of the street art makes it a favorite for Instagram-worthy photos.
There is also different cultural events and performances, the district often hosts live performances, music festivals, and theater productions.
Many of the old warehouses have been repurposed into shops, boutiques, and cafes, offering a wide range of local and handmade goods. The district offers a relaxed atmosphere to wander and discover unique items.
3.Kaohsiung Music Center
The Kaohsiung Music Center (KMC) is a prominent cultural landmark. Officially opened in 2020, it serves as a hub for musical performances and arts, aiming to enhance the city’s cultural landscape and promote artistic expression.
Architectural Design
The Kaohsiung Music Center was designed by the renowned architectural firm, HPP Architects, in collaboration with local firms. The design reflects a modern aesthetic while integrating elements that resonate with Taiwanese culture.
The Key architectural features include:
Fluid Forms: The building’s design mimics the natural flow of music, with organic shapes that resemble sound waves. This unique design not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the acoustics of the performance spaces.
Interior Spaces: The KMC houses multiple performance venues, including an amphitheater, concert hall with a seating capacity of over 1500 , and smaller studios for rehearsals and workshops. Each space is designed to provide optimal acoustics and comfort for both performers and audiences.
The center hosts annual music festivals that celebrate various musical traditions, regular performances by local and international musicians, covering genres from classical to contemporary, attracting visitors from around Taiwan and beyond.
Also the KMC provide workshops and programs designed to educate the public about music and the arts, encouraging participation and appreciation.
The Kaohsiung Music Center stands as a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to the arts and culture.
By providing a modern, versatile space for musical expression, it not only enriches the local community but also establishes Kaohsiung as a key player in the global cultural landscape.
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4. Fo Guang Shan Buddha
Getting there.
Take the orange metro line to Dadong station.
Then outside take the bus 800, the departure frequency is around every 30min.
To go to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Monastery it takes about 30 min and cost around NT$ 100 or US$4.
There is two possible stops, the first one is at the monastery and the second is the Museum.
Watch the schedule to comeback, some buses stop running early.
Schedule photo and stop
Here the link for the kaohsiung bus schedule
I started by the monastery Fo Guang Shan Buddha and finished by the Museum, both worth to be see, from the monastery to the museum there is a little trail so my bus stop was right across the monastery entrance at the litte supermarket.
Fo Guang Shan is strategically located in Kaohsiung’s Dashu District, approximately 20 kilometers from downtown Kaohsiung. The monastery complex covers an area of over 130 hectares, making it the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan.
The site was chosen for its natural beauty and accessibility, sitting amidst rolling hills that provide both seclusion and visibility.
This majestic complex, with its iconic Buddha statue visible from miles away, represents not just a religious institution but a dynamic cultural and educational center that has transformed modern Buddhism’s role in society.
History of the Monastery
Foundation and Early Years
Fo Guang Shan was established in 1967 by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, whose vision was to make Buddhism more accessible and relevant to modern society. Born in Jiangsu Province, China, in 1927, Master Hsing Yun arrived in Taiwan in 1949 along with many other mainland Chinese. His revolutionary approach to Buddhism emphasized education, cultural activities, and social welfare alongside traditional Buddhist practices.
The monastery’s construction began on a modest plot of land in Kaohsiung’s Dashu District. What started as a small temple gradually expanded into the massive complex we see today. The initial construction phase lasted from 1967 to 1975, establishing the main shrine and basic monastery facilities.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Fo Guang Shan underwent significant expansion. New buildings were added to accommodate growing numbers of monastics and visitors. The monastery developed educational facilities, including libraries and classrooms, reflecting Master Hsing Yun’s emphasis on Buddhist education.
Architectural Design
The monastery’s architecture combines traditional Chinese Buddhist design elements with modern functionality. The complex is laid out following Buddhist cosmology, with different levels representing different realms of existence. The main axis runs from east to west, with the Great Buddha statue serving as the focal point.
Buildings are positioned to maximize natural light and ventilation while minimizing energy consumption.
The site includes multiple Buddhist temples, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The center is peaceful, with many visitors meditating, praying, or simply enjoying the tranquil environment.
The extensive gardens and green spaces serve both aesthetic and ecological purposes, providing habitat for local wildlife and creating peaceful spaces for meditation and contemplation.
The monastery’s design demonstrates careful consideration of environmental factors.
The museum is a massive Buddhist complex that houses a giant Buddha statue and offers insight into Taiwanese Buddhist culture.
Key architectural of the monastery.
- The Main Shrine: An eight-story structure housing important Buddhist artifacts and ceremonial spaces
- The Great Buddha Land: Featuring the 108-meter Buddha statue and eight pagodas
- The Buddhist Cultural Museum: Showcasing Buddhist art and historical artifacts
- The Pilgrim Lodge: Providing accommodation for visitors
- Educational facilities including classrooms, libraries, and conference rooms
- Gardens and meditation spaces throughout the complex
5. Cijin Island:
A short ferry ride from the city center, Cijin Island is a popular day-trip destination. Visitors can explore the island’s historic lighthouse, sandy beaches, seafood markets, and unique geological formations.
Getting There
Take the green or orange metro line, for the green line stop at the C14, Hamasen stop, the green line is the line which go all around Kaohsiung.
If taking the orange line direction Sizihwan, stop at the terminal Station 01, from there you need to walk about 10 minutes maximum, to the Gushan ferry Wharf.
To take the ferry you can buy a ticket at the terminal, otherwise you can use the easy card. The ferry trip last about 10 min.
At the Cijin Ferry Wharf, when you get out of the ferry, go strait to the main street and on each side of the street you will find all the seafood restaurants.
Where To Eat
We get our lunch at Cijinka restaurant,
For lunch we get crab, fish,seaweed, sea snails
The bill came to NT$ 1575, 48 US$ .
After lunch we went to spend some time on the beach, The island is home to a small but lovely beach, where we can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.and to the local market, which was about to close.
The other key attractions are
Cijin Lighthouse which unfortunately by lack of time we didn’t the chance to visit.
The Cijin Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Taiwan, has been guiding ships since 1883. There is the possibility to climb the stairs to the top for a breathtaking view of the ocean, the harbor, and Kaohsiung city.
Sanfong Temple
Address: No. 134, Hebei 2nd Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 807
Opening hours: 6am to 10pm
Sanfong Temple is easily accessible, located in a bustling area close to public transportation
Depending where yo stay in Kaohsiung, if your hotel is central then the Sanfong Temple should be at walking distance, otherwise take the By Kaohsiung KRT:
Take Kaohsiung KRT to KRT Kaohsiung Main Station and then transfer bus no. Red 27 to Sanmin Market stop.
It is a very nice temple with a very complex architecture
I recommend to visit the Sanfong temple during the day and the night time, during the day time, you can feel the atmosphere with the pilgrim paying respect and the incense smell, during the night time all the lanterns are on, it’s a very beautiful.
Sanfong Temple, also known as the Sanfong Shrine, is a significant cultural and historical site located in the heart of Kaohsiung.
This temple, dedicated to the worship of various deities, serves as a focal point for local religious practices and community gatherings.
Origins of Sanfong Temple
Sanfong Temple was established in the 17th century, during a time when Chinese immigrants began settling in Taiwan. The temple was originally built to honor Ma Zu, the goddess of the sea, who is revered by fishermen and sailors
Over the centuries, Sanfong Temple has undergone several renovations and expansions.
The temple architecture reflects the various influences and styles that have permeated Taiwanese culture, particularly during the Qing Dynasty. The temple has remained a central place of worship despite the political and social changes in Taiwan.
Interior Decorations
The interior of Sanfong Temple is impressive. The main hall houses a large statue of Ma Zu, surrounded by offerings from worshippers.
The walls of the temple are adorned with murals depicting historical events and tales of deities, providing insight into the cultural heritage of the region.
Roof Design
One of the most striking features of Sanfong Temple is its multi-tiered roof, which is decorated with colorful ceramic tiles and elaborate ridge decorations. The roof’s sweeping curves symbolize the connection between heaven and earth, a common theme in Chinese architecture.
Festivals and Celebrations
Throughout the year, Sanfong Temple hosts numerous festivals that draw large crowds. These celebrations often feature traditional performances, parades, and rituals, reflecting the vibrancy of Taiwanese culture. The celebrations not only honor the deities but also strengthen community bonds.
Guided Tours
For those interested in a deeper understanding of the temple’s history and significance, guided tours are available.
These tours provide insights into the rituals, architecture, and cultural importance of Sanfong Temple, enhancing the visitor experience.
Sanfong Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kaohsiung. Its architectural beauty, religious significance, and role in community life make it an invaluable part of Taiwan’s cultural landscape. As the temple navigates the challenges of modernization, its commitment to preserving traditions and fostering community ties ensures that Sanfong Temple will continue to thrive for generations to come.
With its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural relevance, Sanfong Temple embodies the spirit of Taiwan’s religious and cultural landscape. This article explores the temple’s origins, architectural features, religious significance, and its role in the community.
7. Lotus Pond
Located in the Zuoying District of Kaohsiung, the Lotus Pond is one of the city’s most tranquil and scenic spots. This man-made lake is surrounded by temples, pagodas, and lush greenery, and it is a popular place for both tourists and locals to relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Getting there.
Tae the metro to the high speed train station, from there you have about 20 min walk to reach the lotus pond.
The Lotus Pond, is known for its serene beauty, the Lotus Pond is a picturesque location with temples, pagodas, and a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery.
Key Attractions:
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are among the most famous landmarks at Lotus Pond. The pagodas are connected by a bridge and are designed in a way that allows visitors to enter through the mouth of the dragon and exit through the tiger, symbolizing the transformation from bad luck to good fortune.
Confucius Temple: Near the lotus pond is the Confucius Temple, dedicated to the great Chinese philosopher. The temple is a peaceful and meditative space that’s ideal for those interested in Confucian philosophy and culture.
Buddhist Temples: The area is home to several temples and pavilions, each with its unique architecture and cultural significance.
Boating and Walks: Visitors can rent boats to paddle on the lake or simply enjoy walking around the pond. There are walking paths along the water, which make it an ideal location for leisurely strolls, particularly at sunset when the colors of the sky reflect on the water.
The 85 Sky Tower
The 85 sky Tower is the tallest building in Kaohsiung, offers panoramic views of the city and harbor from its observation deck. At night, but unfortunately at the time of my visit the tower was closed for renovation.