A Week in Kaohsiung: Exploring the Urban and Natural Splendors

From the glassy facade of modern skyscrapers to the whispers of history echoing from ancient temples, Kaohsiung – Taiwan’s Harbor City – is a tapestry of the old and new. With a week in this vibrant city, you will experience urban sophistication, serene natural landscapes, and a melting pot of cultural gems. Whether it’s devouring delectable street food, basking in the beauty of the Love River, or finding tranquility amidst Fo Guang Shan Monastery’s grandeur, our 7-day itinerary ensures a trip filled with enduring memories.

Day 1: Arrival and City Orientation

Touch down at the Kaohsiung International Airport and feel the warm embrace of Southern Taiwan’s hospitality. Head to your hotel and freshen up; we recommend accommodations near the Love River for both comfort and easy access to the city’s charm. Once you’re settled, it’s time to acquaint yourself with the city.

Kaohsiung’s efficient MRT system will be your gateway to the city’s treasures. Purchase an EasyCard and make your way to the Love River, where cafes and green spaces line the serene waterway. As dusk approaches, find a bench and watch as twinkling lights reflect off the river, signaling the start of an enchanting evening.

As the stars begin to pepper the sky, take a short MRT ride to Liuhe Night Market. Your senses will be tantalized by the smorgasbord of smells and sounds. Savor local delicacies such as danzi noodles and black sugar milk tea. Remember to try the notorious stinky tofu – a Kaohsiung rite of passage!

End your night with a gentle cruise on the Love River, basking in the illuminated cityscape, a perfect juxtaposition of tranquility amidst the urban hustle.

Day 2: Harbor Views and Cultural Encounters

Wake up to a hearty Taiwanese breakfast and fuel up for a day of exploration. Begin at the rejuvenated Pier-2 Art Center. Once a bustling port, it’s now the canvas for artists and a playground for culture enthusiasts. Wander through eclectic art installations and snap Instagram-worthy photos among the thought-provoking sculptures and murals.

Take a leisurely lunch of dumplings and shaved ice at a local eatery before catching a ferry to Cijin Island. Upon arrival, rent a bicycle and peddle along the coastline. Visit the Cijin Lighthouse and soak in panoramic views of the vast ocean that cradles Kaohsiung’s shores. On the way back, stop for fresh oysters and succulent shrimp from a seafood vendor, embracing the island vibe.

As evening settles, return to the city to explore the Old City of Zuoying. Wander through the ancient gates of this historical district and observe the fusion of Dutch, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences. Finish your day with a visit to the Former British Consulate at Takao, perched atop a hill, offering an unrivaled view of the harbor lights dancing on the water – a poetic end to a day of discovery and connection with Kaohsiung’s past and present.

Day 3: Nature’s Embrace and Culinary Delights

Welcome the day with a trip to the Shoushan Nature Park, sometimes affectionately called Monkey Mountain for its resident Formosan rock macaques. Hike the well-marked trails under a canopy of green and breathe in the tranquillity of nature. For lunch, make your way back downtown to the Yancheng District and indulge in a scrumptious bowl of duck rice at a local favorite restaurant.

In the afternoon, ready yourself for an artistic diversion at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. Immerse in the broad strokes of Taiwanese art and marvel at contemporary masterpieces. As you exit, find a seat in the adjacent park, sip on an aromatic cup of Taiwanese tea, and reflect on the creativity that thrives in this city.

Conclude your day with the city’s skyline at twilight from the observation deck of the magnificent 85 Sky Tower, the second tallest building in Taiwan. For dinner, visit the tower’s revolving restaurant, combining exquisite cuisine with a 360-degree view of Kaohsiung at night.

Day 4: Modern Marvels and the Heart of Tradition

Day four is a juxtaposition of Kaohsiung’s dedication to tradition and its strides towards the future. Kick off the morning with a visit to the Lotus Pond, renowned for its marvelous temples and pagodas flanking the water’s edge. The iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas promise a spiral walk through vibrant statues and folklore narratives, a must for both cultural enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.

Midday, treat yourself to vegetarian delights at a nearby temple canteen, savoring dishes crafted with compassion. After lunch, make your way to the modern marvel that is the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center, celebrating the city’s position as the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) hub of Southern Taiwan.

As the afternoon mellows, find solace in the historic Kaohsiung City Temple of Confucius, the epitome of calm amidst the bustle. End your day with a local guide tour through the oldest district, Sinsing, where night markets, traditional pharmacies, and teahouses tell stories of a Kaohsiung from times gone by.

Day 5: Coastal Charms and Maritime Adventures

Channel your inner adventurer and embark on a day trip to Kenting National Park, just a few hours’ drive from Kaohsiung. Explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, including lush forests, sand dunes, and coral reefs. Spend the morning snorkeling in the clear waters of Little Bay or sunbathing at White Sand Beach.

For lunch, feast on fresh seafood at a local eatery before heading back to the city. In the evening, unwind with a relaxed dinner cruise along the Love River, witnessing the skyline shimmering against the night sky. It’s the perfect way to soak in the beauty of Kaohsiung from a different vantage point.

Day 6: Leisure, Shopping, and Cultural Insight

After an adventurous day, take it slow with a leisurely brunch at one of Kaohsiung’s stylish cafes. Post brunch, make your way to the Hanshin Department Store or the Dream Mall for some shopping. These malls offer a mix of international brands and unique local finds, perfect for souvenirs or indulging in a spot of retail therapy.

In the afternoon, venture to the tranquil environs of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery. This sizable complex is not only a place of worship but also houses a fascinating museum that provides insights into Buddhist culture. As evening approaches, enjoy a serene dinner at the monastery’s vegetarian restaurant, experiencing spiritual and culinary nourishment.

Day 7: Serenity and Farewells

Begin your last day in Kaohsiung with a tranquil morning at the Central Park, a verdant oasis amidst the city’s hustle. Here, practice tai chi with the locals, jog along the pathways lined with contemporary art pieces, or simply enjoy a coffee while people-watching.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kaohsiung Hakka Cultural Museum to learn about the traditions of Taiwan’s Hakka people. Engage with interactive exhibits and gain a deeper understanding of this ethnic group’s cultural significance in the region.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a gourmet vegetarian restaurant, savoring dishes that reflect the island’s bountiful produce. Spend your afternoon on a final shopping trip at the Rueifong Night Market, where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs and savor tasty street snacks.

Conclude your week with a sunset view from the Tuntex Sky Tower, soaking in the panoramic vistas of the city you’ve come to know and love. For dinner, revisit a favorite eatery discovered earlier in the week or choose a new spot for a final taste of Kaohsiung’s delightful cuisine.

As the stars appear, let the tapestry of experiences from the past week settle in your memory. Kaohsiung has offered you its urban vibrancy, natural beauty, cultural depth, and culinary riches. With these treasures secured, you’ll bid farewell to this enchanting city, carrying with you the promise of a return journey.

Safe travels, and may the spirit of Kaohsiung accompany you as you venture onwards to your next destination or back to the comforts of home.