Kaohsiung has some wonderful sights for the culture-conscious as well as those who enjoy just browsing. There are several lakes in and around the town that offer much recreation and sightseeing, while Cijin Island features intriguing temple architecture and beaches. For people-watching and parties, head for the interesting Yencheng area of downtown Kaohsiung. 

Cheng Ching Lake
Cheng Ching, meaning ‘crystal clear’, is the largest and most visited of Kaohsiung’s lakes. A boat trip on the water here is a must, as is a walk to the seventh storey of the 140-foot-high Chunghsing Pagoda (Restoration Pagoda) with its winding staircase and observation platform. Apart from the lake and leisure activities associated with the region including boating, fishing and hiking, there are also several towers, pavilions and bridges to look at, as well as freshwater and saltwater aquariums near the lake. Some beautiful and rare fish can be seen in the aquariums.

Cijin Lighthouse
Although not very high, Kaohsiung Lighthouse is a must-see standing proud on the summit of Chihou Mountain. Octagonal in shape, the lighthouse was originally built in 1883 and totally re-modelled 35 years later in 1918.

Confucius Temple
Constructed in the architectural style of the Sung dynasty and the site of the yearly Teachers' Day celebration on the birthday of Confucius, Confucius Temple is Taiwan’s largest in the name of the great philosopher. It is located on the shores of the beautiful Lotus Lake along with the Dragon and Tiger Pagoda and can be found on the east side of Tsoying district. There are many other fascinating temples here to boot, with Mount Panping rising in the background.

Fo Guang Shan
Fo Guang Shan is the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan and also one of the largest charities in the country. The monastery is located in the northeast of Tashu village, on the left bank of Kaoping River. The area is strewn with temple architecture with a huge 400-foot tall golden statue of the Buddha being the main highlight, along with four shrines: Tahsiungpao, Tapei, Tachih, and Dashu. Tahsiungpao Shrine is the most impressive with its many thousands of Kuanyin and Buddha statues. Website: www.fgs.org.tw.

Kaohsiung Harbour
Kaohsiung Harbour is worth a look, if only to appreciate its gargantuan size. It is the world’s third largest international container port and boasts miles of navigation channels and the largest throughput of vessels in Southeast Asia.

Qi Jin (Cijin) Island
Forming part of the Old City, Qi Jin is one of the oldest districts in Kaohsiung, where three-wheeled carts still operate alongside numerous ancient temples. One of the most impressive temples in all of Kaohsiung is the 17th century Matsu Temple, or Tien Hou Kung Temple. The impressive Qi Jin Lighthouse can also be seen here. In addition, Qi Jin Beach runs along the west coast and is a big hit with tourists in the summer. The other ancient districts of Gu Shan, Yen Cheng, and Zuo Ying on the island are also of interest.

Three Phoenix Palace
Kaohsiung’s largest temple is devoted to the expurgator Li Na-cha and features some impressive stone lions and many ornate halls. The central hall displays intricate altar tables and 10 huge glowing image cones while the main hall leads to a Buddhist shrine containing three altars with gilded Buddha images. The palace is situated on Hopei road and can be reached by taking bus number 88.

Yan Cheng
The old downtown area known as Yencheng is located to the east of Love River and is a popular area with locals and tourists due to its buzzing atmosphere. Eclectic souvenir shops, trendy cafés and a slew of restaurants, bars and nightclubs make this area great for a party. Come here for some fun, but be aware that it can get noisy owing to the influx of sailors from Kaohsiung Harbour.

Bathe at Xizu Bay Beach. Here the waters are easily the best for swimming in the city and the natural reef provides good snorkelling. The sand here is smooth and pleasant while the waters, saltwater aquarium, and Seaside Park are great for kids. Head west of the city for Mount Longevity and you will find Xizu Beach.

Climb Shoushan Mountain. Also known as Unicorn Mountain, Gold Bury Mountain, or Drum Beating Mountain, Shoushan provides ideal scope for gaining a better perspective of Kaohsiung. As well as the hike and views, you can also take in the Won Sou Mountain Park, the zoo, Martyrs Shrine, and numerous temples and limestone caves.

Feast on fresh seafood in Cijin. A popular district of Kaohsiung with a tunnel providing access from the mainland, Cijin is a bubbling area at any time of the day and its seafood restaurants are the best in town.

Get romantic along the Ai River. As inspiration for many writers over the years, the Ai River features many idyllic waterfront cafés and riverside parks that can be enjoyed day or night – ideal for a bit of romance.

Immerse yourself in Teng Chi Forest Park. Here the ground rises from between 500 and 1,800 metres. Visitors can walk the two-mile track that goes through the forest revealling the many ancient plants, rare wildlife, and butterflies of the region.

Laze on Hsitzuwan Beach. Although a bit of a drive out of town, a visit to Hsitzuwan Beach is well worth it for the natural beauty and relative serenity of this fine area of Kaohsiung. Hsitzuwan Beach can be found southwest of Shoushan, and is a popular spot for eating and viewing the fishing boats in the evening.

People-watch in Yan Cheng. Kaohsiung’s most attractive area is where people let their hair down amid numerous shops, restaurants, pubs and nightclubs. Although often rowdy, Yencheng is lots of fun.

Relax in Love River Park. Ideal for walking or cycling along the river banks and pathways, Love River Park has been turned around to become one of Kaohsiung most popular green spots.

Soak in Bulaobaolai Hot Springs. One of the many hot springs in the region, Bulaobaolai Hot Springs are fabulous and have great facilities, making them perfect for a winter visit. Dwo Nah Hot Springs and Pu Lao Hot Spring are also good.

Take in Cheng Ching Lake. Board a cruise boat, or partake in one of the many activities on offer around this lovely region of Kaohsiung, such as hiking, horseback riding, golf, and fishing. The many bridges, pavilions, and pagodas provide endless chances to snap photos, and the aquarium is great for the little ones.

Visit Shoushan Zoo. Kids will appreciate the rare and exotic animals here which come from all over the world. In late afternoon you can see the city from here, or alternatively capture the city lights after sun down.