Kaohsiung Bucket List
Kaohsiung and I go way back — I lived here for two years as a kid! Revisiting as an adult felt totally different. The city has changed from “developing and modernizing” to straight-up creative, coastal, and full of personality.
My parents used to live near Love River, but back then I never really understood Kaohsiung’s quirks. So… I’m fixing that now by building a Kaohsiung Bucket List you can check off as you explore. I’ll keep adding more as I revisit, wander, and eat my way through the city.
If you’re planning a Taiwan trip, don’t forget to download my Taiwan Travel Planner to map out everything with ease ✈️
best Kaohsiung tours
for Experiences
駁二藝術特區
Pier 2 Art Center
Kaohsiung’s creative, and also one of the city’s most iconic spots.
Initially, abandoned old warehouses became colorful art spaces, with murals everywhere, indie shops, cute cafés, and pop-up exhibits — it’s the perfect place to wander without a plan.
Great for photos, slow mornings, and anyone who loves great artsy finds.
承億酒店
TAi Urban Resort
If you want a stylish stay in Kaohsiung, this hotel gets it right. Modern, minimal, and way comfier than you expect — with huge windows, excellent service, and easy access to shopping + transit.
It feels like a sleek little urban escape inside the city. Perfect for first-timers who want convenience without sacrificing aesthetic vibes.
TAi Urban Resort was one of our favorite stays in Kaohsiung — Read the full review here.
for Foodies
神諭咖啡
Oracle Coffee
A modern monochromatic café located inside the Pier-2 area — think clean interiors, stylish vibes, and pastries that disappear way too fast. Perfect for a quick coffee run before wandering the art center.
If you love aesthetic cafés or need a break from Kaohsiung’s heat, this is the perfect little stop.
more to explore
Shoushan (Monkey Mountain)
Hiking Chaishan for ocean views
Dome of Light cycling path
Cijin Beach activities (surf, kites, seaside rides)
85 Sky Tower Observation Floors (currently closed)
Cijin Island + beach day
Lotus Pond temples
Dream Mall + ride the Ferris wheel
Ruifeng Night Market — must do
Liuhe Night Market — wheelchair-friendly + tourist-friendly
Qijin seafood street eats
Hakka cuisine in Meinong
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
Former British Consulate at Takao
Cijin Tianhou Temple
Old Zuoying & historical ponds
Hamasen Railway Museum
where to go next?
Kaohsiung → Chiayi (visit the iconic Alishan mountains)
Kaohsiung → Taichung (a perfect blend of city + nature)