Travel

Over the last three centuries, Kaohsiung has grown from a humble trading village, into Taiwan’s busiest harbour. As a shipping and industrial powerhouse, Kaohsiung has had a gritty past. But today, a fresh wind is blowing, creating a modern, creative, and highly livable city.

Just a short ferry ride from the city’s downtown is the narrow island of Cijin. This district serves as the harbour’s natural breakwater, and has been home to Kaohsiung’s fishing families for generations. Visit Tianhou Temple, dedicated to the goddess Matzu, the protector of sailors and fishermen. Follow dramatic coastal paths and climb to the lighthouse and fort for commanding views.

Wherever you go in Kaohsiung, you’ll be reminded that this is a city with water in its veins. The Love River runs right through the heart of the city. Once little more than a neglected drain, the river’s transformation reflects the city’s evolution into a place awakening to its natural assets.

But if the Love River is the city’s mirror, Lotus Lake is the city’s soul. From the remains of the Old Wall of Fengshan, explore the lake in a clockwise direction, visiting the Dragon and Tiger Pavilion, the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and an 80ft statue of Xuan Wu.