Personally, Kaohsiung is my favorite city in Taiwan, and it’s often known as one of the most aesthetic cities in the country. Let me tell you why it deserves a spot on your Taiwan itinerary.
This city has such a laid-back vibe while still offering all the qualities of a big city. From its amazing public transportation system that can take you almost anywhere, to how visually beautiful the city itself is — even the MRT/LRS stations are stunning.
I would sum it up like this: if you love a city that feels relaxed, aesthetically pleasing, offers beautiful harbor views, and blends modern and traditional Taiwan perfectly, then this is the place for you. If Taipei feels energetic and fast-paced, Kaohsiung feels creative and laid-back.
How to Get to Kaohsiung From Taipei
1. Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) — Fastest & Most Convenient
The most popular option is the Taiwan High Speed Rail, which takes around 1.5–2 hours from Taipei Main Station to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung. Trains are very clean, comfortable, and punctual, with tickets starting around NT$1,490.
You can book your HSR tickets from Klook and get 5% off discount using our code KLOOKXNESSA
2. Taiwan Railway (TRA) — Slower but More Scenic
The regular Taiwan Railways train takes around 4.5–6 hours and costs about NT$800–900 depending on the train type. It’s cheaper than HSR and gives you more scenic countryside views.
3. Intercity Bus — Cheapest Option
Long-distance buses from Taipei to Kaohsiung usually take around 5–6.5 hours and cost about NT$400–700. Some overnight buses are available, helping you save one night of hotel cost.
4. Private Car or Car Rental
You can also hire a private driver or charter car if traveling with family or lots of luggage. The trip usually takes around 4.5–6 hours depending on traffic.
You can book your private car from Trip.com
How to Get Around Kaohsiung
The three main types of public transportation here are the MRT, LRT, and buses. Make sure to carry an EasyCard or iPass with you. You can purchase them at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and OK Mart, and you can also top them up there or at MRT stations. (These cards are not sold at MRT stations.)
Another option is to use YouBike, but make sure to be careful, as not all areas have bike lanes and Taiwan has a lot of motorbikes, which can sometimes make cycling dangerous if you are not cautious.
Top Things to Do in Kaohsiung
1. Visit Pier-2 Art Center
My favorite place in Kaohsiung, this area is full of creative warehouses that have been transformed into art spaces. You’ll find lots of street art, cafés, exhibitions, and beautiful harbor views. There are also many local shops to explore here.
The area is very large, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring it. It’s also one of the best photo spots in the city.
2. Visit Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
If you’re looking for a traditional temple experience, this is the place to visit. The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are located at Lotus Pond, where you’ll also find several other pagodas and temples, although the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are the most famous.
Make sure to enter through the dragon and exit through the tiger. It is believed to cleanse away bad luck and negative energy. However, doing it the other way around is considered bad luck.
3. See the Famous Dome at Formosa Boulevard Station
One of the world’s most beautiful MRT stations, this spot is perfect for photography. The lights and artwork are incredibly pleasing to the eye, making it a must-visit spot in Kaohsiung.
4. Pray and Take Picture at Sunfong Temple
One of the most beautiful temples in Taiwan. We first saw footage of it on social media and immediately knew we had to see it with our own eyes.
It’s best to visit at night when the lanterns light up the temple beautifully. Entry is free, but you can also make a donation to help preserve the temple.
5. Eat at Liuhe Night Market
Located close to Sanfong Temple, this is one of the busiest and most popular night markets in Kaohsiung. It’s a great place to try local Taiwanese street food and experience the city’s nightlife.
6. Explore Cijin Island
If you’re looking to escape the city and spend some time by the beach, this is the perfect destination. It’s only a short 5-minute ferry ride from the city center.
The atmosphere here feels completely different — much more laid-back and relaxing. There’s also a night market where you can enjoy local food and snacks.
7. Shop at Shinkuchan Shopping District
If you’re looking for a shopping area in Kaohsiung, this is the place to go. Besides shopping, you’ll also find plenty of street food stalls, cafés, and restaurants around the area.
8. Trip to Fo Guang Shan
Another traditional temple that is located a bit far from the city center. I would describe it as majestic, with several pagodas on both the left and right sides, and a giant Buddha statue in the middle.
Where to Stay in Kaohsiung
1. Brio Hotel Kaohsiung
An artistic and highly rated 4-star hotel in the heart of Kaohsiung, conveniently located near Central Park and Liuhe Night Market. Each floor of the hotel has a different theme designed by artists from around the world.
I love this hotel so much that I’ve actually stayed here twice — once with Linardo and another time when my family came to Taiwan. We chose to stay here again because not only do we love the design, but the overall service was also amazing.
It is considered a “design hotel,” making it a great place for photography. Since Kaohsiung is such an artistic city, why not stay at a design hotel, right?
It was also selected as a MICHELIN Guide Selected Hotel for 2026.
2. Nikko Hotel Kaohsiung
A newly opened 5-star Japanese-style international hotel. The facilities here include an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, and the exclusive Nikko Club Lounge.
The rooms are honestly quite standard, with a clean, new, and minimalist feel. However, the overall atmosphere of the hotel feels upscale, and the service was great as well.
Travel Tips for Kaohsiung
Bring enough cash, as Taiwan is still not a fully cashless society, especially for foreigners. Apple Pay is accepted in many stores and restaurants, but not usually at street food stalls.
People in Kaohsiung generally speak less English compared to Taipei, and most restaurants only have Mandarin menus, so having the Google Translate app with you at all times can be very helpful.
I would recommend staying around 2–4 days, which is enough time to visit most of the major attractions.
Kaohsiung is also one of the warmest cities in Taiwan because it is located in the south of the island. It tends to get quite hot here, and even during winter, the temperatures usually don’t drop too much. However, if you’re visiting during summer (May–September), it can get extremely hot. Make sure to dress accordingly and bring sunscreen or a parasol umbrella to help with the heat.
Is Kaohsiung Worth to Visit?
I would say yes, Kaohsiung is a must visit city in Taiwan. I love Kaohsiung because I’m drawn to places that have character and are aesthetically pleasing. For anyone who enjoys art, laid-back cities, and sunny weather, this city is definitely worth visiting.
I do think Kaohsiung is more of a one-time destination, as I don’t feel the city changes very often, but it is still absolutely worth experiencing at least once.
Check out our Kaohsiung vlog here
Explore More Hidden Gems in Taiwan
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out our other Taiwan travel blogs featuring top cities from Taipei to Kaohsiung — each offering its own unique blend of nature and culture.
For detailed routes and insider travel tips, download our Taiwan Travel eBook, which includes itineraries, hidden attractions, and local experiences curated from our own journeys.
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