Kaohsiung Itinerary: What to Do and Where to Go in 2 to 3 Days
I’ve been to Taiwan a few times before, but it wasn’t until one of my past trips that I finally got to visit Kaohsiung, the vibrant port city in southern Taiwan. When local airlines in the Philippines launched direct flights from Manila to Kaohsiung, it became much more convenient for travelers like me to explore beyond Taipei. During that trip, I spent 10 days in Taiwan and dedicated 2 to 3 days to discovering Kaohsiung. That trip turned out to be one of the highlights. If you’re planning your own visit, here are some places to visit and suggested Kaohsiung itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city.
Places to visit in Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung is a great choice for a 2 to 3-day trip, offering a mix of culture, scenic views, and vibrant local life. It’s more laid-back than Taipei but just as full of things to see and do, from its growing art scene and historic landmarks to lively night markets and coastal spots. The city is easy to explore thanks to its reliable public transport and relaxed, welcoming vibe, making it perfect for a short but memorable getaway.
During my stay, I had the chance to visit some of Kaohsiung’s popular attractions. Here are a few places you might want to check out.
- Dome of Light – The world’s largest glass artwork located inside Formosa Boulevard MRT Station. The dome illustrates a symbolic story through four themes: Water, Earth, Light, and Fire.
- Urban Spotlight Arcade – Open-air art installation that features 16 light-based artworks created by eight artists. It is located outside Central Park MRT Station.
- Love River – A peaceful riverside area ideal for boat rides, sunset walks, and dining at riverside cafés. It’s a romantic spot in the city, especially in the evening when the lights reflect off the water.
- Cijin Island – A short ferry ride from the city, Cijin Island offers a refreshing escape with beaches, bike rentals, and landmarks like the Cihou Lighthouse.
- Lotus Pond & Temples (Zuoying District) – A scenic lake surrounded by iconic temples, including the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and the Kaohsiung Confucius Temple.
- Night Markets: Liuhe & Ruifeng – Experience Kaohsiung’s vibrant street food scene. Liuhe Night Market is popular with tourists for its seafood and accessibility, while Ruifeng Night Market is larger, more local, and offers a wider variety of snacks and games.
Kaohsiung Itinerary
Here’s a sample Kaohsiung itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Day 1
- Flight from Manila to Kaohsiung
- Arrival in Kaohsiung
- Check in at accommodation
- Tour:
- Dome of Light
- Riufeng Night Market
Day 2
- Tour:
- Urban Spotlight Arcade
- Lotus Pond & Temples (Zuoying District)
- Liuhe Night Market
Day 3
- Tour:
- Love River
- Cijin Island
- Check out from the accommodation
- Train from Kaohsiung to Taipei or Flight from Kaohsiung to Manila
Kaohsiung is truly a great destination to visit in Taiwan. Even with just a short amount of time, I was able to experience so much. My first visit left me wanting more, and it made me realize that a return trip is definitely in order. Next time, I’d love to stay longer and explore even more.
Where to book hotels and activities?
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