Start your trip in Kaohsiung by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Liuhe Night Market. In the morning, wander through the bustling stalls, trying local snacks and street food. In the afternoon, visit Pier-2 Art Center, an abandoned warehouse turned creative space with art installations and exhibitions. As the evening sets in, head to Central Park to relax and enjoy the city's skyline.
Liuhe Night Market: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Pier-2 Art Center: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 2-3 hours
Central Park: Free entry, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 17: Cultural Exploration
Start your day by visiting Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, one of the largest Buddhist cultural centers in Taiwan. In the afternoon, explore the Lotus Pond area and marvel at the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. End the day with a visit to the Cultural Center Night Market, where you can sample more delicious local food.
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 3-4 hours
Lotus Pond: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 2-3 hours
Cultural Center Night Market: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, September 18: Nature and Relaxation
Start your morning with a visit to the Maolin National Scenic Area, known for its stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Love River and enjoy the scenic views. End the day by unwinding at Siziwan Beach Park, where you can relax and watch the sunset.
Maolin National Scenic Area: Free admission, estimated cost: $10 for transportation, time spent: 4-5 hours
Love River: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 2-3 hours
Siziwan Beach Park: Free entry, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Island Adventure
Embark on a day trip to Cijin Island, located just off the coast of Kaohsiung. Start your morning by exploring Cijin Old Street and trying local seafood. In the afternoon, visit Cijin Seaside Park and relax on the beach. Don't miss the Cihou Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island.
Cijin Old Street: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Cijin Seaside Park: Free entry, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 2-3 hours
Cihou Lighthouse: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Historical Sites
Explore the historical side of Kaohsiung by visiting the Chihkan Tower, a former Dutch fortress. In the afternoon, head to the Shoushan National Nature Park and hike up the Monkey Mountain for stunning views of the city. End the day with a visit to Dome of Light, an impressive glass artwork at Formosa Boulevard MRT Station.
Chihkan Tower: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 2-3 hours
Shoushan National Nature Park: Free entry, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 3-4 hours
Dome of Light: Free admission, estimated cost: $5 for transportation, time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Kuo Yuan, a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious traditional Taiwanese breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 70 NTD per person.
For lunch, head to A Zong Rice, a local favorite serving flavorful bowls of braised pork rice. Average cost for a meal is about 80 NTD per person.
Indulge in a tasty dinner at Liuhe Night Market, where you can find a variety of street food stalls offering everything from grilled seafood to savory noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 150 NTD per person.
Thursday, September 21: Food and Shopping
Indulge in Kaohsiung's culinary delights by starting your day at the Ruifeng Night Market, known for its diverse food stalls. In the afternoon, explore the Dream Mall, the largest shopping mall in Taiwan, where you can indulge in some retail therapy. End the day with a visit to the Urban Spotlight Arcade, a vibrant shopping street.
Ruifeng Night Market: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Urban Spotlight Arcade: Free entry, estimated cost: $5 for snacks, time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, September 22: Day Trip to Tainan
Take a day trip to Tainan, a nearby city rich in history and culture. Explore the Anping Old Street and try the famous Tainan snacks. Visit Chihkan Tower, a Qing Dynasty-era fort, and end the day by relaxing at the Garden Night Market, one of the largest night markets in Taiwan.
Anping Old Street: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Chihkan Tower: Free admission, estimated cost: $10 for transportation, time spent: 2-3 hours
Garden Night Market: Affordable street food, estimated cost: $10, time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Banana Pier, a colorful artistic space filled with murals and sculptures. Another local favorite is the Pier-2 Bookstore, a unique bookstore housed in old shipping containers with a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of books. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into Kaohsiung's vibrant art scene and are perfect for budget travelers.