KAOHSIUNG HOTELS

ABOUT KAOHSIUNG

Kaohsiung is a bustling metropolis on the southwestern coast of Taiwan.

The earliest human activity in Kaohsiung is believed to be 4,700–5,200 years ago, with sites like Shoushan, Longquan Temple ruins, and Fengbitou revealing Neolithic tools and pottery find. Early indigenous settlers of the Makatau clan of the Siraya people lived here. They call the area Ta-kau (“bamboo forest” in Siraya). Ming Chinese explorers recorded the name in 1603 as it’s strategic coastal location. In 1624 the Dutch East India Company occupied southern Taiwan and build a harbor here calling it Tankoya. In the Qing Dynasty era the region became part of Wannian County.

ATTRACTIONS IN KAOHSIUNG

• The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas located on Lotus Lake. These colorful pagodas, adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, are connected by a bridge that leads visitors through the mouths of the dragon and tiger status.
• The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum (the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan) is a sprawling complex home to a massive statue of Buddha as well as beautifully landscaped gardens and meditation halls.
• The Museum of Fine Arts showcases a wide range of artworks from traditional Chinese paintings to contemporary sculptures. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions of works by both local and international artists.
• Love River Park has boat rides along the Love River. Visitors will enjoy the sights and sounds of this iconic waterway.
• Liuhe Night Market offers a wide variety of street food stalls selling everything from grilled skewers to bubble tea is a must for foodies.
• Kaohsiung also boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous private galleries, theaters and performance venues that showcase local talent. Visitors can watch a traditional Chinese opera performance, attend a contemporary art exhibition or explore the city’s street art scene with colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the city.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT KAOHSIUNG

The best time to visit Kaohsiung is from November to April when temperatures are cooler and not in the typhoon season. This also coincides with peak tourist season. June to September brings with it the monsoon season with heavy rain and hot humid conditions.

KAOHSIUNG DOS AND DON’TS

DO –

• Use the MRT & EasyCard : The Kaohsiung MRT is clean, efficient and easy to navigate. The EasyCard works on MRT, buses and is accepted in many  convenience stores in the city.
• Show respect in temples : Dress modestly, remove hats and speak softly.
• Greet politely : A slight bow and using honorific titles (e.g. “Teacher”, “Doctor”).
• Sample the night markets : Liuhe and Ruifeng Night Markets are perfect for trying local snacks like papaya milk, grilled squid and bubble tea.

DON’TS –

• Avoid sensitive topics : Politics cross‑strait relations or religion can be touchy subjects in casual conversation.
• Don’t block MRT doors or escalators : Stand on the right, walk on the left. Let passengers exit before boarding.
• Littering or jaywalking : Taiwan is strict about cleanliness and traffic rules.
• Don’t underestimate distances : Kaohsiung is spread out. Plan your itinerary for nearby attractions.
• Avoid peak summer if heat bothers you : Humidity is intense from May to September.
• Don’t touch without permission : Physical contact like hugs or handshakes should be initiated by the other person.