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Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s vibrant southern port city—warm climate, lively night markets, art and harbor attractions. Plan for humid weather, efficient public transport, and a friendly, safe urban environment.
Visa / entry requirements
- Many nationalities can enter Taiwan visa-exempt for short stays (commonly 14–90 days). Check the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs site for your country’s specific waiver and latest pandemic-related rules.
- Passport validity: ensure at least 6 months remaining if required by your nationality.
- You may need an onward/return ticket and proof of accommodation.
- Visa-exempt travelers must still comply with customs and immigration screenings.
Best time to visit
- Best months: October–April for milder, drier weather and lower humidity.
- Summer (June–August): hot, humid, frequent afternoon storms and typhoon risk (July–September peak).
- Lunar New Year: busy; some attractions and shops close.
Safety tips
- Kaohsiung is generally safe: low violent crime. Use normal urban caution for petty theft in crowded markets and transit.
- Watch for scooters: heavy two-wheeler traffic; look both ways when crossing streets.
- Typhoon season: monitor forecasts, follow local advisories, and prepare flexible plans.
- Drink tap water only if boiled or filtered—most locals use filtered water; bottled water is widely available.
Local customs & etiquette
- Politeness: bow or nod slightly; a handshake is common in business.
- Shoes: remove when entering some homes or traditional temples.
- Tipping: not customary; small tips may be accepted in tourist areas but not expected.
- Public behavior: keep volume moderate on public transport; eating while walking is common but avoid littering.
- Temple etiquette: dress modestly, don’t step over incense holders, and follow worshippers’ lead when taking photos.
Currency & payments
- Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).
- Cash: widely used at markets and smaller shops. Have small bills/coins for buses and street food.
- Cards & e-pay: credit cards accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and shops. Mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) and local e-wallets (e.g., LINE Pay) are increasingly common.
- ATMs: widely available; use those in banks for lower fees. Notify your bank before travel.
Transportation
- Kaohsiung MRT (metro): clean, efficient; covers central attractions and connects to Kaohsiung Main Station and the airport (via transfers).
- Kaohsiung Light Rail and buses: good coverage, use for shorter trips; pay with cash or an EasyCard.
- EasyCard: contactless transit card used across Taiwan (metro, buses, some taxis, convenience stores). Buy and top up at stations/convenience stores.
- Taxis: plentiful and affordable; use metered fares. You can call rides or hail on the street.
- Bicycle: public YouBike system available at many spots—good for short riverside rides.
- Rail & High-Speed Rail: Kaohsiung has regular TRA trains; Zuoying HSR station connects to Taipei and other cities.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Night markets: Liuhe, Ruifeng, and Kaisyuan are must-visits for seafood and snacks—bring cash and sample local specialties (stinky tofu, papaya milk).
- Pier-2 Art Center & Yancheng District: hip arts precinct with galleries, murals, and cafes.
- Love River: scenic for evening strolls, river cruises, and riverside cafes.
- Cijin Island: short ferry ride—try fresh seafood, visit the lighthouse and beach; bring sunscreen and water.
- Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum: a major cultural/temple complex outside the city—allow half to full day.
- Heat & humidity: carry a portable fan, sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Lightweight, breathable clothing recommended.
- Language: Mandarin is the official language; Taiwanese Hokkien widely spoken. Basic English is available in tourist areas; learn a few Mandarin/Taiwanese phrases for easier interactions.
- Connectivity: buy a local SIM or pocket Wi‑Fi at the airport for easy navigation and translation.
- Opening hours: many attractions open 9–10am; night markets operate from evening to late night.
Practical checklist
- Check visa/entry rules and any travel advisories.
- Pack for heat and occasional rain; include comfortable shoes for scooter-heavy streets.
- Get an EasyCard and local SIM or eSIM.
- Carry some TWD cash for markets and small vendors.
- Monitor weather/typhoon alerts during summer.
Enjoy Kaohsiung: it blends coastal scenery, cultural sites, lively food markets, and easy transit—great for relaxed urban exploration and day trips around southern Taiwan.