
Kaohsiung Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, is a vibrant port metropolis that combines modern energy with natural beauty and cultural depth. Located in the island’s south, it boasts year-round warm weather, a laid-back atmosphere, and a growing reputation as a hub for art, design, and waterfront redevelopment. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, from the dramatic Lotus Pond with its colorful temples and dragon-tiger pagodas, to the modernist architecture of the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts . The Love River winds through the city, offering scenic promenades, boat rides, and night views that highlight Kaohsiung’s relaxed charm.
In recent years, Kaohsiung has transformed its industrial roots into dynamic public spaces like the Pier-2 Art Center, a lively cluster of galleries, cafes, and markets in a former warehouse district. The city’s efficient MRT system makes it easy to reach key sites including Cijin Island, known for its beach, seafood, and historic lighthouse. Whether you’re drawn by street food, art installations, harbor views, or Buddhist landmarks like Fo Guang Shan, Kaohsiung offers a refreshing blend of culture and coastal life that makes it a rewarding destination for all kinds of travelers.
In recent years, Kaohsiung has transformed its industrial roots into dynamic public spaces like the Pier-2 Art Center, a lively cluster of galleries, cafes, and markets in a former warehouse district. The city’s efficient MRT system makes it easy to reach key sites including Cijin Island, known for its beach, seafood, and historic lighthouse. Whether you’re drawn by street food, art installations, harbor views, or Buddhist landmarks like Fo Guang Shan, Kaohsiung offers a refreshing blend of culture and coastal life that makes it a rewarding destination for all kinds of travelers.
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Kaohsiung Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Kaohsiung Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Taiwan » Kaohsiung (See other walking tours in Kaohsiung)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.4 Km or 2.7 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Taiwan » Kaohsiung (See other walking tours in Kaohsiung)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.4 Km or 2.7 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Pier-2 Art Center
- Kaohsiung Music Center
- Glory Pier
- Central Park
- Dome of Light
- Liuhe Night Market
1) Pier-2 Art Center (must see)
The Pier-2 Art Center is a thriving hub of creativity that has transformed a cluster of abandoned port-side warehouses into one of the city's most beloved cultural landmarks, a dynamic open art space, where contemporary artists, students, and visitors come together to explore and celebrate southern Taiwan’s vibrant creative scene.
Spread across a large area near the Kaohsiung Port and facing Qijin Island, the Pier-2 Art Center is home to hundreds of unique shops, cafes, galleries, and bars. Inside the revamped warehouses, visitors can find everything from street art and pop art installations to thought-provoking contemporary exhibits.
One of the most talked-about pieces is the “Chores of Guan Gong,” an enormous red figure known for its provocative design. For a fun and quirky photo opportunity, don’t miss the street art mural of Pier-2 itself or the stacked shipping containers arranged into modern sculpture. A highlight for many is the towering Transformers model next to the light rail station.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive in the mid to late afternoon so you have time to explore both indoor and outdoor installations before catching a beautiful sunset over the water. Admission fees apply for certain exhibits, but the surrounding art and atmosphere make even a casual stroll worthwhile.
Spread across a large area near the Kaohsiung Port and facing Qijin Island, the Pier-2 Art Center is home to hundreds of unique shops, cafes, galleries, and bars. Inside the revamped warehouses, visitors can find everything from street art and pop art installations to thought-provoking contemporary exhibits.
One of the most talked-about pieces is the “Chores of Guan Gong,” an enormous red figure known for its provocative design. For a fun and quirky photo opportunity, don’t miss the street art mural of Pier-2 itself or the stacked shipping containers arranged into modern sculpture. A highlight for many is the towering Transformers model next to the light rail station.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive in the mid to late afternoon so you have time to explore both indoor and outdoor installations before catching a beautiful sunset over the water. Admission fees apply for certain exhibits, but the surrounding art and atmosphere make even a casual stroll worthwhile.
2) Kaohsiung Music Center
The Kaohsiung Music Center is an impressive architectural and cultural landmark situated along the city’s waterfront, showcasing Kaohsiung’s growing identity as a hub for the arts. Opened in 2021, the center occupies a prominent site between the Love River and Kaohsiung Port, with its futuristic, wave-inspired structures reflecting both the city’s maritime heritage and its creative aspirations. Designed to host music performances, festivals, and cultural events, the complex is a symbol of Kaohsiung’s transformation from industrial port to vibrant cultural destination.
The center includes a main concert hall, outdoor performance areas, exhibition spaces, and the eye-catching “Whale Bridge,” which offers sweeping views of the harbor and skyline. Its varied venues support a wide range of programming, from international pop concerts and electronic music festivals to local indie performances and experimental shows. The surrounding area is equally inviting, with open plazas, water features, and art installations that make it a pleasant spot to explore, especially in the evening when the buildings are beautifully illuminated.
For tourists, the Kaohsiung Music Center offers more than just entertainment—it provides a dynamic space where architecture, music, and city life intersect. Its proximity to the Pier-2 Art Center and other harborfront attractions makes it an interesting stop, especially for those interested in design, nightlife, or contemporary culture.
The center includes a main concert hall, outdoor performance areas, exhibition spaces, and the eye-catching “Whale Bridge,” which offers sweeping views of the harbor and skyline. Its varied venues support a wide range of programming, from international pop concerts and electronic music festivals to local indie performances and experimental shows. The surrounding area is equally inviting, with open plazas, water features, and art installations that make it a pleasant spot to explore, especially in the evening when the buildings are beautifully illuminated.
For tourists, the Kaohsiung Music Center offers more than just entertainment—it provides a dynamic space where architecture, music, and city life intersect. Its proximity to the Pier-2 Art Center and other harborfront attractions makes it an interesting stop, especially for those interested in design, nightlife, or contemporary culture.
3) Glory Pier
Glory Pier, located at the mouth of Kaohsiung’s Love River, has transformed from a strategic military hub into one of the city’s most scenic and leisurely waterfront destinations. Formerly known as Pier 13, it once played a vital role in national defense and logistics, particularly for transportation to Taiwan’s offshore islands, Kinmen and Matsu. In 2005, the Kaohsiung City Government officially renamed it Glory Pier to honor its historical significance and repurposed the space into a vibrant public promenade.
Today, Glory Pier invites visitors to stroll along its 500-meter waterfront path, relax at outdoor cafes, and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor. The area is especially popular at sunrise and sunset, when the light reflects off the water, creating a serene and colorful scene. The pier has also become a key cultural venue, hosting events such as the annual Kaohsiung New Year’s Eve celebration and maritime festivals, drawing crowds with live music, performances, and art installations.
A footbridge over the Love River and an adjacent fountain add to the pier’s charm, connecting the site to neighboring districts and making it an easy stop along the city’s pedestrian routes.
Today, Glory Pier invites visitors to stroll along its 500-meter waterfront path, relax at outdoor cafes, and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor. The area is especially popular at sunrise and sunset, when the light reflects off the water, creating a serene and colorful scene. The pier has also become a key cultural venue, hosting events such as the annual Kaohsiung New Year’s Eve celebration and maritime festivals, drawing crowds with live music, performances, and art installations.
A footbridge over the Love River and an adjacent fountain add to the pier’s charm, connecting the site to neighboring districts and making it an easy stop along the city’s pedestrian routes.
4) Central Park
Kaohsiung Central Park offers a refreshing escape in the heart of the city, blending natural greenery with modern urban design. Once part of an industrial zone, the park was transformed by city planners into a vibrant public space promoting health and relaxation. Located next to the KMRT Central Park Station—one of the world’s most beautiful metro stops—the park is easily accessible and sits near key shopping areas like the President Department Store and Shinkuchan Entertainment District. Designed with convenience and community in mind, the park includes a bike rental station and several walking trails that invite both leisure and movement.
Within the park, visitors will find a mix of cultural and recreational attractions. These include the Kaohsiung Literature Library, Scenic Lake, Water Square, Middle Island, Outdoor Terrace, and the Hedgerow Labyrinth—a charming green maze. Water Square draws attention with its scheduled “water dances,” which are 20-minute fountain shows held several times daily. Speech Square offers a more traditional atmosphere, where older residents gather to chat, sip tea, or play board games beneath shady trees. The park’s diverse landscapes and peaceful vibe have also made it a popular filming location for local television dramas.
Central Park comes alive at night thanks to the Urban Spotlight installation, where illuminated pathways and occasional performances create a lively atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a quiet stroll, a lakeside rest, or shopping just outside the park gates, Central Park offers a balance between nature and city life.
Within the park, visitors will find a mix of cultural and recreational attractions. These include the Kaohsiung Literature Library, Scenic Lake, Water Square, Middle Island, Outdoor Terrace, and the Hedgerow Labyrinth—a charming green maze. Water Square draws attention with its scheduled “water dances,” which are 20-minute fountain shows held several times daily. Speech Square offers a more traditional atmosphere, where older residents gather to chat, sip tea, or play board games beneath shady trees. The park’s diverse landscapes and peaceful vibe have also made it a popular filming location for local television dramas.
Central Park comes alive at night thanks to the Urban Spotlight installation, where illuminated pathways and occasional performances create a lively atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a quiet stroll, a lakeside rest, or shopping just outside the park gates, Central Park offers a balance between nature and city life.
5) Dome of Light (must see)
The Dome of Light, located in Formosa Boulevard MRT Station, is the world’s largest illuminated glass art installation and a shining symbol of the city’s artistic spirit. Created by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata, this massive dome spans 30 meters in diameter and covers 660 square meters with 1,137 vividly colored glass panels made through the use of fused Murano glass and hand-painted panels.
The Dome of Light tells a powerful visual story through four symbolic themes arranged in a circular narrative: Water represents the origin of life, Earth stands for growth and prosperity, Light symbolizes the creative force, and Fire captures destruction and rebirth. Together, these segments offer a meditation on the human experience, conveying a message of love and tolerance.
More than just an art installation, the Dome of Light serves as a cultural landmark commemorating Taiwan’s democratic history, including the Formosa Incident. The four main platform exits, designed with transparent glass reminid of the Luce Memorial Chapel. As a transfer point between the Red and Orange MRT lines, the station is a daily crossroads for commuters and a growing destination for local and international tourists.
The Dome of Light tells a powerful visual story through four symbolic themes arranged in a circular narrative: Water represents the origin of life, Earth stands for growth and prosperity, Light symbolizes the creative force, and Fire captures destruction and rebirth. Together, these segments offer a meditation on the human experience, conveying a message of love and tolerance.
More than just an art installation, the Dome of Light serves as a cultural landmark commemorating Taiwan’s democratic history, including the Formosa Incident. The four main platform exits, designed with transparent glass reminid of the Luce Memorial Chapel. As a transfer point between the Red and Orange MRT lines, the station is a daily crossroads for commuters and a growing destination for local and international tourists.
6) Liuhe Night Market (must see)
Liuhe Night Market is a bustling street market. This lively stretch along Liuhe Road transforms nightly into a feast for the senses. Originally formed in the 1950s as the Dagangpu Night Market, it has since grown into a vibrant hub of local culture, drawing both locals and tourists with its glowing lights, enticing aromas, and nonstop energy.
The market spans over 300 meters, packing nearly 200 stalls into two vibrant rows of vendors offering everything from sizzling street food to souvenirs. Family-run steak houses line the route, offering hearty portions at wallet-friendly prices. While seafood, snacks, and drinks dominate, you’ll also find occasional vendors selling clothing, electronics, and even live animals. It’s a place to taste Kaohsiung’s personality: casual, colorful, and community-driven.
Food is the undeniable star of Liuhe Night Market. Try the famous Zheng's Old Brand Papaya Milk, known for its velvety texture and fresh ingredients—papayas from Pingtung and premium Kaohsiung milk. Adventurous eaters should seek out Lin Zongxing Eel Noodles, beloved for its crispy-yet-tender eel, savory garlic-laced noodles, and rich, tangy sauce. For something warm and comforting, head to Zhuang Ji Seafood Porridge, a Kaohsiung that offers a briny, flavor-packed bowl loaded with fresh seafood and rice in soothing broth.
Despite the fame of its food stalls, Liuhe Night Market isn’t just about eating—it’s also a window into Kaohsiung’s vibrant night culture. The streets are filled with music, neon signs, the clatter of woks, and the hum of conversation. The best time to beat the lines and catch freshly made dishes? Arrive between 6:00 and 6:30 PM.
The market spans over 300 meters, packing nearly 200 stalls into two vibrant rows of vendors offering everything from sizzling street food to souvenirs. Family-run steak houses line the route, offering hearty portions at wallet-friendly prices. While seafood, snacks, and drinks dominate, you’ll also find occasional vendors selling clothing, electronics, and even live animals. It’s a place to taste Kaohsiung’s personality: casual, colorful, and community-driven.
Food is the undeniable star of Liuhe Night Market. Try the famous Zheng's Old Brand Papaya Milk, known for its velvety texture and fresh ingredients—papayas from Pingtung and premium Kaohsiung milk. Adventurous eaters should seek out Lin Zongxing Eel Noodles, beloved for its crispy-yet-tender eel, savory garlic-laced noodles, and rich, tangy sauce. For something warm and comforting, head to Zhuang Ji Seafood Porridge, a Kaohsiung that offers a briny, flavor-packed bowl loaded with fresh seafood and rice in soothing broth.
Despite the fame of its food stalls, Liuhe Night Market isn’t just about eating—it’s also a window into Kaohsiung’s vibrant night culture. The streets are filled with music, neon signs, the clatter of woks, and the hum of conversation. The best time to beat the lines and catch freshly made dishes? Arrive between 6:00 and 6:30 PM.
Walking Tours in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Create Your Own Walk in Kaohsiung
Creating your own self-guided walk in Kaohsiung is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Lotus Pond Walking Tour
Lotus Pond, located in Kaohsiung’s Zuoying District, is a scenic manmade lake known for its calm waters, floating lotus flowers in summer, and impressive lineup of temples and pagodas along its shores. Originally completed in the 1950s, the pond quickly became a cultural landmark and recreational hub for locals and visitors alike. A walking path encircles the lake, providing easy access to... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
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