Kaohsiung Self-Drive Tour: 5 Routes to Explore Kaohsiung

Located in Kaohsiung's port area, Pier-2 Art Center is a cultural and creative park transformed from old warehouses. It hosts various art exhibitions, creative markets, and cultural activities, making it a paradise for art lovers.

The library's exterior resembles a massive glass box, with spacious and bright interiors. The rooftop garden and café on the 8th floor offer a fantastic view of Kaohsiung's cityscape.

The museum hosts a wide range of art exhibitions throughout the year. The building itself is architecturally unique, and the surrounding sculpture park is well worth a visit. If you have time, consider joining one of the museum's guided tours for a deeper understanding of the art on display.

Love River is the mother river of Kaohsiung, and its riverside paths are great for a stroll and admiring the night view. You can opt to take a boat ride on the river to enjoy the scenery from the water. At night, the river becomes even more beautiful, with colorful lights reflecting on the water, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Not only does this park boast rich natural ecology, but it also offers a panoramic view of the entire Kaohsiung city. You can hike here, enjoy various plants, and if you're lucky, spot Formosan macaques. Be sure to bring your camera – the scenery is definitely photo-worthy.

This spot is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. In the evening, sitting on the rocks by the sea and watching the sun slowly sink below the horizon is an unforgettable experience. However, parking is limited here, so it’s recommended to arrive early.

Want to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach? Cijin is definitely a great choice. It offers long stretches of sand where you can swim, sunbathe, or taste fresh seafood. Be sure to bring sunscreen – Taiwan’s sun can be quite strong!

This is one of Kaohsiung’s most famous attractions. Surrounding the pond are several temples, with the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas being the most well-known. You can rent a swan boat and leisurely explore the pond, soaking in its peaceful atmosphere.

This is one of the most famous night markets in Kaohsiung, renowned for its diverse Taiwanese street food. Must-try items include papaya milk, stinky tofu, and grilled squid with satay sauce. Besides food, there are also many stalls selling clothes and accessories, making it a great place to eat and shop.

This is a traditional market, but it hides one of Kaohsiung’s most famous delicacies – Liu’s Black Wheel. Their oden, a Japanese-style hot pot, is known for its rich broth and diverse ingredients, definitely worth a try. The market also features many other local food stalls offering authentic Kaohsiung flavors.

This street is not only famous for its traditional snacks but also for its well-preserved architecture from the Japanese colonial period. While enjoying Qishan’s famous banana ice cream, you can also admire the architectural style of the old street. Don’t forget to buy some banana egg rolls as a souvenir – Qishan bananas are renowned!

Originally a sugar factory, this site has been transformed into a cultural and creative park. Here, you can learn about the history of sugar production, and there are many specialty desserts to try. Be sure to sample their unique ice cream made with sugar from the factory – it's the perfect treat on a hot Kaohsiung day!

This is one of the most famous historical buildings in Kaohsiung. Built in 1879, the British Consulate has been transformed into a cultural park. You can visit the old consulate to learn about its history, and also enjoy the stunning view of Kaohsiung Harbor from the hill. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there are some stairs to climb.

Built during the Qing Dynasty, this is one of the oldest temples in Kaohsiung. You can admire the intricate carvings and paintings, and feel the strong religious atmosphere.

This was a military fortress during the Qing Dynasty and is now an important historical site. You can stroll along the ancient city walls and imagine the lives of the soldiers who once guarded the city. Don’t miss the North Gate, which is the best-preserved section.

Originally the old station of Kaohsiung Port, this area has been transformed into a cultural park with a nostalgic atmosphere. You can see vintage locomotives and learn about the history of Kaohsiung’s railway development. The park also has many unique cafes, where you can sit down and relax while soaking in the old-time vibe.

This is a famous butterfly-watching spot in Kaohsiung and a great place for hiking. You can walk along the trails to reach the mountain peak and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Dagangshan Guanyin Temple on the mountain is also worth a visit, with its magnificent architecture.

This is a scenic reservoir with a tranquil environment. You can ride a bike, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the lake and mountain views. There are a few restaurants nearby where you can taste local delicacies.

This is a large forest park located in the city, home to a rich variety of plants. There are several trails inside the park, perfect for walking or jogging. It’s also a great spot for bird watching, and if you're lucky, you might spot a Taiwan Barbet.

This is the largest metropolitan park in Kaohsiung, covering a vast area with lakes, grasslands, and forest zones. You can ride bikes, fly kites, or simply find a spot for a picnic. The park also has an ecological center where you can learn about the local natural environment.