Kaohsiung, a dynamic port city in southern Taiwan, offers a rich blend of culture, history, and modern artistry for travelers. Its dynamic cultural scene invites visitors to explore a world where tradition and innovation meet. Whether it’s outdoor museums, grand temples, or contemporary art installations, Kaohsiung’s diverse attractions reflect a city constantly evolving, making it a captivating destination for every traveler.
We recently got to experience this lively city firsthand, thanks to Cebu Pacific, which now offer thrice-weekly flights from Manila to Kaohsiung. Here are some must-see places that reflect the city’s rich culture and fascinating art scene.
Kaohsiung’s rich cultural spots
Kaohsiung’s art scene is all about embracing creativity in every form, and nowhere is this better reflected than in the Pier-2 Art Center. Once a dilapidated collection of old warehouses, Pier-2 is now a bustling hub filled with street art, quirky sculptures, galleries, and event spaces. A standout destination is the Hamasen Pier-2 Line, an outdoor museum of sorts dedicated to Taiwan’s historical railway system.
The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, located on the outskirts of Kaohsiung, is another spiritual and cultural highlight. The grandeur of the pagodas and the tranquility of the grounds make it the perfect place to slow down and reflect. We particularly enjoyed the quiet Buddhist Botanic Gardens, with its calming energy.
Another spot that left an impression on me was the Lotus Lake Park. Though the Dragon & Tiger Pagodas are currently under renovation, the surrounding park is still very much worth visiting. The peaceful lake, the intricate bridges, and the beautifully maintained pagodas make this area feel like a serene oasis. We spent some time just walking around, enjoying the quiet and appreciating the reflection of the lake—definitely one of Kaohsiung’s must-visit places.
If museums are your thing, the Chimei Museum is the place to go. Located just a short trip from Kaohsiung in Tainan, the museum boasts an impressive collection of art, instruments, and even exhibitions on natural history.
Another must-see for any art lover is Ten Drum Cultural Village, a former sugar refinery turned into an arts center dedicated to drumming culture. Watching the energetic drum performances was a visceral experience that left us feeling more connected to Taiwan’s cultural rhythms.
Public art, architectural highlights
Kaohsiung doesn’t just hide its creativity indoors—it spills out into the open. Strolling around Dagang Bridge and Great Harbor Bridge, we found ourselves surrounded by public art that invites interaction. You never know what you’ll find—one moment, it’s a colorful mural by a local artist, and the next, a towering sculpture of a Transformers robot. It makes wandering the streets feel like a discovery all on its own.
Another architectural marvel worth mentioning is the Kaohsiung Music Center, perhaps the most visually stunning structure in the city. Its iconic design is so instantly recognizable that you’ll find it hard to resist snapping a few shots. Its modern architecture stands out along the waterfront, and I loved seeing it from different angles as I explored the area. The building is especially striking at night when it’s all lit up, casting colorful reflections on the river.
A look back on local history
For a mix of retail therapy and local history, Kaohsiung Port Warehouse No. 2 is the place to be. We found ourselves navigating through art installations, retail stores, and small dining spots that highlighted Kaohsiung’s modern identity while staying true to its historical roots. The iconic Banana Pier next door was sadly closed for renovation during my visit, but I have fond memories from my previous trip, where I enjoyed a delicious meal there.
The British Consulate at Takow offered a more historical perspective, with panoramic views of the harbor. Not too far from it is the Cijin Lighthouse, which gave us a chance to take in Kaohsiung’s scenic coastline from a height, making us appreciate how seamlessly nature and city life coexist in this port town.
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Read more: Cebu Pacific relaunches Manila-Kaohsiung route with thrice-weekly flights