Day 1: Arrival
THSR Xin Zuoying Station:
A major transportation hub in Kaohsiung, Xin Zuoying Station is not only a transit point but also a visual treat. The station boasts high arches and indoor lamps, reminiscent of something you would see in Europe. If you are arriving via High-speed rail from Taipei or Taichung, make sure to make time to capture some Instagram-worthy photos.
Be sure to explore the ground floor for rail bento boxes and a variety of food stores. We had the pull apart garlic bread and it was so good!
Formosa Boulevard
Our Airbnb was located at Formosa Boulevard. Formosa Boulevard MRT Station is located in the heart of the city and is renowned for its mesmerizing light and sound display, a captivating spectacle that must not be missed. The lights show typically begins at 6:30 PM daily, and lasts for about 15 minutes. For 15 minutes, all the lights in the area will go off and you feel like you are transported to a different realm.
Liouhe Night Market:
We were so lucky that we picked an Airbnb just above Liouhe Night market, just the perfect place to grab a late night snack after a long day of travel. Liouhe Night Market occupies just one long stretch of street, and though it is smaller and cozier compared to other night markets in Taiwan, their local delicacies are still worth a try. We recommend the Beef cubes, Fried Rice and beancurd dessert.
Where to stay:
Airbnb Liuhe
Consider booking this Airbnb just above Liouhe Night Market for a convenient and immersive stay.
Day 2: Artistic Exploration
The Pier2 Art Center:
After a simple breakfast near our Airbnb, we headed to The Pier2 Art Center for some art spotting. Situated in the basin No. 3 of Kaohsiung Port, it is a unique open art space repurposed from warehouses. Various designer shops and Eslite bookstore can be found there, making it a good place to shop for eccentric stationery and accessories for your loved ones. Walk along the western railway line (previously used to transport goods to the docks, and now become Kaohsiung's busiest cycling trail) and admire murals and art sculptures that dot the public spaces. See if you can spot Octopoda @ Dayi Pier-2, a giant octopus sculpture that has drums for legs. For food, you can grab a bite at the numerous cafes/street vendors that line the harbor. We were there on a Monday afternoon and were pleasantly surprised to find a farmer’s market outside SunnyHills that featured local crafts, pastries, Japanese drip coffee, and live music. Nearing the evening, take a short stroll towards Great Harbor Bridge for an amazing sunset view overlooking Kaohsiung Port.
Alien Art Center:
If you have time to spare, check out the Alien Art Center, an underrated hidden gem that showcases contemporary art installations and houses a refined restaurant. It costs about $120 TWD per person and you can spend about 30 mins there. To get there from Pier 2 Art district, you can take a bus or walk for about 20 mins.
What to eat:
If you are in the area, be sure to try the Bei Gang Tsai Rice Tube, just a 15 mins walk from Alien Art Center.
Bei Gang Tsai Rice Tube
Savour authentic old school dishes such as minced meat atop sticky rice, and salted veg duck soup.
Day 3: Craft Markets and City Views
Some places on our list that we didn't manage to go, but we feel are worth checking out:
Kaohsiung Eye Ferris Wheel:
After that, head to the Kaohsiung Eye Ferris Wheel to experience the city's skyline and panoramic view of Kaohsiung.
Dream Mall:
Conclude your trip with some last-minute purchases at Dream Mall, an adjacent shopping haven that offers a variety of retail options. Be sure to check out the arcades and amusement parks within.
For local crafts and artisanal products:
Discover local crafts and artisanal products at the Golden Forest Indoor Market, a haven for those seeking unique and handmade treasures.
