7-Day Nature Getaway in Kaohsiung

Saturday, September 16: Lotus Pond

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the beauty of Lotus Pond. In the morning, explore the serene surroundings and admire the lotus flowers blooming in vibrant colors. Afternoon calls for a visit to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, take a peaceful boat ride on the pond to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

• Lotus Pond: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Lotus Pond: Cost estimate - 200 TWD, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Boathouse, located near Lotus Pond. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf Restaurant and savor their mouthwatering seafood dishes. From grilled fish to shrimp dumplings, their menu has something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Harbor View Restaurant, known for its stunning waterfront views and exquisite cuisine. Try their signature dish, the Kaohsiung-style grilled lobster, for a truly decadent experience. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.

Sunday, September 17: Maolin National Scenic Area

Embark on a day trip to Maolin National Scenic Area, known for its stunning natural landscapes. Morning is the perfect time to explore the Maolin Suspension Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Afternoon calls for a visit to the Purple Butterfly Valley, where you can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of thousands of purple butterflies. In the evening, relax and soak in the beauty of the Maolin Hot Springs.

• Maolin Suspension Bridge: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Purple Butterfly Valley: Cost estimate - 100 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Maolin Hot Springs: Cost estimate - 300 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, September 18: Shoushan National Nature Park

Discover the wonders of Shoushan National Nature Park. Start your day with a hike in the morning to Qishan Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the coastline. Afterward, explore the Shoushan Zoo, home to a variety of animals and plants. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the park's lush trails and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

• Qishan Mountain Hike: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Shoushan Zoo: Cost estimate - 100 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Shoushan Nature Park: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 19: Cijin Island

Escape to Cijin Island, a hidden gem just a short ferry ride away from Kaohsiung. Start your day by exploring the Cijin Seaside Park in the morning, where you can enjoy the sandy beaches and beautiful ocean views. Afternoon calls for a visit to the Cijin Lighthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the island. In the evening, indulge in a seafood feast at one of the local restaurants.

• Cijin Seaside Park: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Cijin Lighthouse: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Seafood Feast on Cijin Island: Cost estimate - 500 TWD, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 20: Meinong Hakka Cultural Village

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Meinong Hakka Cultural Village. Morning calls for a visit to the Hakka Culture Museum, where you can learn about the Hakka people's history and traditions. Afterward, explore the quaint streets lined with traditional houses and shops selling handmade Hakka crafts. In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing Hakka music and dance.

• Hakka Culture Museum: Cost estimate - 100 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Meinong Hakka Cultural Village: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cultural Performance: Cost estimate - 300 TWD, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 21: E-DA World

Experience the excitement of E-DA World, an entertainment complex offering both thrilling rides and stunning natural landscapes. Morning calls for an adrenaline rush at the E-DA Theme Park, where you can enjoy a variety of roller coasters and attractions. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the E-DA Outlet Mall for some shopping. In the evening, take a cable car ride to the E-DA Skylark to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

• E-DA Theme Park: Cost estimate - 1000 TWD, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• E-DA Outlet Mall: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• E-DA Skylark Cable Car Ride: Cost estimate - 300 TWD, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, September 22: Kenting National Park

Explore the natural wonders of Kenting National Park. Morning calls for a visit to the iconic Eluanbi Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. Afterward, spend the afternoon at Baisha Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or indulge in water activities. In the evening, take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Kenting Avenue, lined with shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

• Eluanbi Lighthouse: Cost estimate - 100 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Baisha Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Bike ride along Kenting Avenue: Cost estimate - 300 TWD, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path attractions, head to Monkey Mountain, located in the outskirts of Kaohsiung. Hike through lush forests and spot monkeys in their natural habitat. Another local favorite is the Shou Shan Stone Buddha, a gigantic stone-carved Buddha statue nestled in the mountains. Don't forget to explore the beautiful Maolin Valley, known for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Kaohsiung adventure, visit kayak.com.