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Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s bustling port city, blends urban innovation with rich traditional culture, making it a compelling destination for travelers. With its captivating harbor views, modern skyscrapers, and lush parks, visitors can immerse themselves in a dynamic mix of old and new. For art lovers, the Pier-2 Art District offers vibrant street art and unique galleries, while history buffs will appreciate the reverent atmosphere of the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. This vibrant city promises a perfect blend of leisure, adventure, and cultural enrichment.
Consider exploring Kaohsiung’s diverse neighborhoods on bike, an eco-friendly way to enjoy scenic routes like the Love River and Cijin Island.
Ensure to experience traditional Taiwanese cuisine at Liuhe Night Market, famous for its variety of local snacks and seafood dishes.
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Kaohsiung: The Hub of Southern Taiwan
| Country | Taiwan |
| Time in Kaohsiung | GMT+8 |
| Language spoken | Mandarin Chinese |
| Population | 2.773 million (World Population Review, 2023) |
| Currency | New Taiwan Dollar (NT$ / TWD) |
| Airports | Kaohsiung International Airport (6 mi / 9 km). |
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, is a booming urban center with a unique blend of culture, modernity, and lush green spaces. Known for its bustling harbor, Kaohsiung also thrives with robust industries, extensive shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife. Historically, it has been a crucial maritime gateway, linking Taiwan to global economies. Its relevance today can be seen in its extensive port facilities, which remain one of the busiest in the world. The charm of Kaohsiung lies in its diverse districts, each offering a distinct flavor. The city is famous for the Love River that flows through and provides a scenic route for both locals and tourists to explore by boat. Upcoming development projects aimed at boosting eco-tourism highlight the city’s dedication to sustainability. Kaohsiung’s commitment to culture is evidenced by numerous festivals and events celebrated year-round, showcasing traditional and contemporary arts.
Where is Kaohsiung?
Kaohsiung is located in southern Taiwan, strategically positioned on the southwestern coast facing the Taiwan Strait.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei to Kaohsiung | 350 km | Approx. 4 hours |
| Tainan to Kaohsiung | 45 km | Approx. 40 minutes |
What is Kaohsiung famous for?
Kaohsiung is renowned for its massive port, which is one of the largest container ports in the world. The city is also famous for its rich blend of urban architecture and natural beauty, exemplified by spots such as the Lotus Pond and the modern Pop Music Center.
History
Prehistoric to Early Dynastic Period (Before 17th Century)
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s modern industrial hub, has a rich history that dates back several millennia. Originally inhabited by the Makatao people, a sub-group of the Taiwanese aborigines, the area was primarily involved in fishing and agriculture. It remained relatively obscure until the influx of Han Chinese during the Ming dynasty, which marked the beginning of significant settlement.
17th Century: Dutch and Spanish Colonization
The 17th century saw the arrival of European powers. The Dutch East India Company established Fort Zeelandia in what is now Tainan, extending their influence over the plains where Kaohsiung now lies. This period introduced significant trade and agricultural development, with sugar and rice becoming major commodities. Following the Dutch, the Spanish also briefly occupied parts of northern Taiwan.
Late 17th Century to 19th Century: Qing Dynasty Rule
After the expulsion of the Dutch, the Qing Dynasty took control, marking a period of consolidation and expansion of Han Chinese influence in the region. The name “Kaohsiung” started to be used, deriving from the Hokkien Chinese word for “high tower,” likely in reference to a watchtower located in the area. The Qing rule further entrenched the agricultural economy of the area.
Early 20th Century: Japanese Occupation
The Japanese occupation of Taiwan in 1895 brought profound changes to Kaohsiung, transforming it into a modern harbor city. The Japanese developed the port facilities, which enhanced its economic status, giving rise to its nickname “The Harbor City.” During this period, infrastructure, including railways and roads, was significantly improved, integrating Kaohsiung more into the growing economic framework of East Asia.
Post-World War II and Modern Era
Following Taiwan’s return to Chinese rule after World War II, Kaohsiung continued to prosper as a maritime city. The rapid industrialization of Taiwan during the late 20th century turned the city into a major industrial center, specializing in petroleum refining, shipbuilding, and other heavy industries. Today, Kaohsiung is not only a critical economic powerhouse but also a burgeoning center for tourism and culture, having hosted numerous international events like the World Games 2009.
Visit Kaohsiung
What to see and do in Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung, a vibrant city rich in culture and history, offers a plethora of activities and sights for visitors. The city is famous for its bustling night markets, such as Liuhe Night Market, where visitors can sample local Taiwanese dishes and shop for souvenirs. The Love River, flowing through the city, provides a scenic venue for evening walks and boat rides. For art enthusiasts, Pier-2 Art Center, a revitalized warehouse district turned creative hub, showcases contemporary art and street performances. Nature lovers will appreciate Maolin National Scenic Area for its hiking trails and the rare purple butterflies that inhabit the region.
- Liuhe Night Market for local foods and goods
- Love River scenic walks and boat tours
- Pier-2 Art Center for contemporary art exhibitions
- Maolin National Scenic Area for hiking and butterfly watching
Annual Festivals and Events
Kaohsiung hosts several events throughout the year that showcase its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant community spirit. The Dragon Boat Festival, held in June, features thrilling boat races on the Love River. Lantern Festival, occurring in February, brightens the night with beautiful lantern displays and fireworks. Kaohsiung Film Festival, in October, attracts cinema enthusiasts with screenings of international and local films.
Best time to visit Kaohsiung
The best time to visit Kaohsiung is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city and participating in outdoor activities.
Is Kaohsiung worth visiting?
Kaohsiung is undoubtedly worth a visit for both its historical richness and modern charms. The city offers a unique blend of cultural heritage sites, lush landscapes, and contemporary arts, making it an alluring destination for travelers seeking a diverse experience. Whether it’s the culinary delights of the night markets or the serenity of the Love River, Kaohsiung promises lasting memories for every visitor.