What is Kaohsiung, Taiwan like? Sightseeing, gourmet food, night markets, and souvenirs

What is Kaohsiung, Taiwan like?
Basic information you need to know before your trip

Kaohsiung is located in southern Taiwan, second only to Taipei.Taiwan's second largest cityIt is.

The mild climate and open atmosphere of this port town are appealing, and it is packed with sightseeing, gourmet food, night markets, and souvenirs to make your trip enjoyable.

This column provides a thorough introduction to Kaohsiung, including basic information on the city, tourist attractions, dining, and nightlife.

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How to read Kaohsiung and
Compare differences with Taipei

Many people may not think of Kaohsiung when they hear the word "Kaohsiung."

How to read andDifferences from TaipeiKnowing this will make your choice of travel destination much easier.

Correct reading of Kaohsiung

The Japanese reading of "Kaohsiung" isTakao."But in the local Chinese language (Mandarin)Khao Shun."In Taiwanese, it is pronounced "gauchon.

Its English name is "Kaohsiung. The name "Kaohsiung" is derived from the name "Takao" given to the area during the Japanese colonial period, and has deep ties to Japan.

Kaohsiung and Taipei, differences in scale and atmosphere

While Taipei is the political and economic center of the city and has a strong business flavor, KaohsiungRelaxed atmosphere typical of a port townis a feature of this product.

Prices are generally more reasonable than in Taipei, and many visitors find it easier to spend time with the local people.

Traffic congestion in the city is not as intense as in Taipei, and the MRT (subway) provides a smooth ride to major spots.

Kaohsiung or Taipei, which should I choose?

If this is your first visit to Taiwan, we recommend Taipei for those who want to enjoy shopping and city sightseeing, and Kaohsiung for those who want to relax and enjoy nature, food, and night markets.

Between the two citiesApproximately 1.5 hours by bullet train (Taiwan High Speed Rail)and easy access, so plans that combine both are also popular.

7 recommended sightseeing spots in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung has nature, history, art, etc.A wide variety of tourist attractionsare available.

We have carefully selected seven can't-miss spots that both first-time visitors and repeaters will enjoy.

Lotus Lake

A freshwater lake in the northern part of Kaohsiung City, built on the lake.dragon and tiger towerIt is famous for its symbolic landscape of

Many temples line the shores of the lake, offering visitors a glimpse into local religious culture.

It is conveniently located within walking distance from the Ecological Garden District station on the MRT Nangangshan Line.

Qidjin Island

On a long, narrow island at the entrance to Kaohsiung Harbor,Approximately 5 minutes by ferryand excellent accessibility.

Visitors can enjoy the Cijin Old Street, lined with seafood gourmet stalls, and the white sandy beaches of the Cijin Coast.

A leisurely bike ride around the island is also recommended.

Mireido Station
(Formosa Blvd. Station)

Voted one of the most beautiful subway stations in the world, this is the main station of the Kaohsiung MRT.

Decorate the ceiling of the stationDome of Lightis a huge mural painted with stained glass that takes your breath away with its beauty.

It is also easily accessible, making it a great place to stop by while sightseeing.

British Consulate in Dagu

1865.The oldest British Consulate in Taiwan, built in 1949, is located on a hilltop overlooking Kaohsiung Harbor.

The red brick exterior and historic atmosphere are impressive, and together with the view of the harbor, make it an excellent photo spot.

There is also a café where you can relax.

Pier 2 Special Art Zone
(Poaar Arts Special Zone)

formerRenovation of a group of port warehousesThe art area, which was designed by the Taiwanese artists, hosts installations and exhibits from time to time.

It is a very popular spot for young people, with a wide variety of fashionable cafes and stores.

There are many events on weekends, and you can feel the local energy.

Kaohsiung City Museum of History

Japanese colonial period.1939.The museum is housed in the former city hall built in

The building itself is one of the highlights of the museum, with a wide range of exhibits that teach visitors about Kaohsiung's history and culture.

The fact that admission is free is also a plus.

Western Gulf of Thailand

At a scenic spot facing Kaohsiung Harbor,Place of sunsetIt is also famous locally as a

The coastline is a mix of sandy and rocky shores, and many local families enjoy strolling and picnicking.

If you visit during sunset hours, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the sky and ocean being dyed.

Kaohsiung Gourmet Complete Guide
Specialties you must try

Kaohsiung represents the culinary culture of southern Taiwan.

Fresh seafoodto local staples,trying the food at various restaurantsThere are many delicious foods that will not stop the

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Tantu-men

This local noodle dish originated in Tainan and is widely popular in Kaohsiung.

Minced pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, etc. on topSweet soupis characterized by its lightness, making it perfect for in-between meals.

You can easily enjoy them at night markets and xiaoqi dian (小吃店).

Pai Guo Fang

This is a classic Taiwanese diner menu of deep-fried pork spareribs served over rice.

It is widely served at cafeterias and local restaurants in Kaohsiung,Great volume and cosmetics.！

If you want to experience Taiwanese everyday food, you should definitely order it.

Papaya milk

A typical Taiwanese drink, blended with ripe papaya and milk.Concentrated smoothiesIt is.

Kaohsiung is also known for its mild climate and papayas, and visitors can enjoy especially delicious jukka milk.

Please visit us in between sightseeing on a hot day!

Guotie

With Taiwanese-style grilled dumplings,Crispy baked bottom textureis a feature of this product.

The simple taste of pork, cabbage, chives, and other ingredients wrapped in a wrapper makes it a favorite breakfast and light meal among locals.

It is also readily available at night market stalls.

Enjoy the nightlife at Kaohsiung's night markets!

Taiwan is famous for its night markets!

Kaohsiung also has several unique night markets,nightlifeIt is very popular among travelers as a classic spot for

With all the eating, shopping, and games, you won't be able to wait for the night to arrive.

Liu Ho Night Market

At Kaohsiung's representative night market,Approx. 180 storesIt is a large food stall area lined with

There is a wide variety of restaurants, including seafood and Taiwanese sweets, and the atmosphere is easy for tourists to enter.

Ruifeng Night Market

It is a night market with a strong local flavor, especially loved by the locals, and is larger in scale and has more stalls than the Liouhua Night Market.

There are many game corners and general merchandise stalls, and you can enjoy the night market culture from the same perspective as the local young people.

Closed on Tuesdays and WednesdaysPlease note that the following is a list of the

Gwanghwa Night Market

A cozy night market located in Kaohsiung City's Lingya District, with many regular local customers.Holey SpotsIt is.

It is perfect for those who want to experience the real atmosphere of a Taiwanese night market without being overly touristy.

The prices are reasonable and easy on the wallet.

Six souvenirs to buy in Kaohsiung

The final part of the Kaohsiung trip is choosing souvenirs.

From standard Taiwanese items to items unique to Kaohsiung, here are six recommendations that are sure to please.

Pineapple Cake

Taiwan Souvenirsmost standard of allIt is.

The baked pineapple jam is wrapped in a crispy dough and individually wrapped, making it a perfect gift to give to work or friends.

It is available at bakeries and department stores in Kaohsiung City.

Mango Sweets

Southern Taiwan is a major producer of mangoes, and KaohsiungAibun (apple mango)There is a wide variety of sweets using

There is a wide variety of dried mangoes, mango jelly, mango candy, etc., and they make great souvenirs for fruit lovers.

Taiwanese tea (i.e. oolong)

High-quality Taiwanese teas such as Alishan Oolong tea and Oriental Beauty tea are classic souvenirs.

Tea stores in Kaohsiung City often offer tea tastings, so you can choose your favorite flavor and purchase it.

We have a wide range of price points.Budget-friendly optionsI am glad to see that.

Kaohsiung Limited Edition Craft Beer

In recent years, craft beer culture has been gaining momentum in Kaohsiung.

Made by a local breweryKaohsiung limited label beeris attracting attention as a unique souvenir for those who love to drink.

It can be purchased at stores around the Pier II Special Art Zone.

Heian period oval rice cakes

These baked sweets originated in Taichung, central Taiwan, but are also widely sold in Kaohsiung.

Crispy pie crustThe sweet bean paste is perfect as an accompaniment to a cup of tea.

The individual packages are also easy to carry.

Cow squeak sugar (nougat)

Soft, milk-flavored candies with nuts and dried fruits are popular.

It is a popular snack throughout Taiwan, but it can also be found at night markets and markets in Kaohsiung.Easy to buyIt can be done.

Many of them are not too sweet, and will be appreciated by people of all ages.

Basic Information on Travel to Kaohsiung
Access, best season, transportation

For those visiting Kaohsiung for the first time, we have compiled some basic information to help you plan your trip.

If you keep this in mind, you will be able to move smoothly at the site.

Access from Japan to Kaohsiung

From Japan to Kaohsiung,Kaohsiung International Airport (Xiaogang Airport)Direct flights to

Direct flights are available from Tokyo (Narita/Haneda), Osaka (Kansai), Fukuoka, etc., and the flight time is approximately 3-4 hours.

LCCs are also in service, making it possible to visit at a relatively reasonable price.

Transportation in Kaohsiung City

The MRT (subway) and buses are the main means of transportation in Kaohsiung City.

The MRT covers major tourist spots and is designed to be easy for tourists to use.

In addition, shared cycleYouBike."are also located throughout the city, making it convenient for short-distance travel.

Cabs are also relatively inexpensive and readily available.

Best time to visit Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung has a mild climate throughout the year, but I especially recommendDry season from October to MarchIt is.

The pleasant temperatures and lack of rainfall make it ideal for sightseeing.

On the other hand, summer (June to September) is hot and humid and also typhoon season, so be careful of the weather when planning your trip.

About Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Kaohsiung is a port town with all the charm of southern Taiwan.

The city offers many attractions such as Lotus Lake and Meilidao Station, gourmet food such as danzai noodles and jiaogulan milk, nightlife at Liouhe Night Market and Ruifeng Night Market, and souvenirs such as fengli cakes and mango sweets.

Different from Taipeirelaxed atmosphereis also a major attraction of Kaohsiung.

Why not add Kaohsiung to your travel plans?

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