Port Guide | Taiwan | Worth a Wander
Kaohsiung
David Nakamura | Editor
Published on 2025-12-26
Welcome to Kaohsiung, Taiwan's southern metropolis-the sort of city that sneaks up and charms you before you've finished pronouncing its name (go ahead, practice: Gao-shung). Historically overshadowed by its flashier northern sibling Taipei, Kaohsiung spent decades quietly perfecting its recipe of laid-back port vibes, vibrant street culture, and world-class seafood-not to mention the distinction of once being known as "Takao," a name coined by 17th-century Dutch traders whose pronunciation was, let's face it, probably even worse than yours. Today, the city's culture crackles brightest at night markets like Liuhe, a sensory-overload playground filled with sizzling oyster omelets, animated hawkers, and enough stinky tofu to delight-and possibly traumatize-your tastebuds. Or stretch your legs at the effortlessly cool Pier 2 Art Center, where repurposed dockside warehouses house galleries, cafes, and street art that will slyly remind you Kaohsiung is more than just a pretty harbor. You've docked; you're caffeinated; your wanderlust is begging-time to dive headfirst into Taiwan's most underrated gem.
Taiwan has 0 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Kaohsiung is known for its vibrant culture, night markets, and beautiful waterfront parks. Passengers should consider visiting the Liuhe Night Market and the Pier 2 Art Center.
Where do cruise ships dock in Kaohsiung?
Port Name Kaohsiung
Country Taiwan
Region Southeast Asia
Ship Terminal Kaohsiung Harbor International Cruise Terminal
Port Type dedicated port
Accessibility The terminal is approximately 3 km from the city center, accessible via taxis and local buses.
What's the weather like in Kaohsiung?
Best Season to Visit Spring and Autumn (March to May & September to November)
Climate Subtropical climate with hot and humid summers, mild winters.
Weather Notes Brace for potential typhoons from July to September; the spring and autumn months offer more stable weather conditions for cruising.
Temperature Range 68F to 86F (20C to 30C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 55F
Average Temp 73F
What do I need to know about Kaohsiung?
Language Mandarin Chinese
Currency New Taiwan Dollar (NTD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 2.75 million
Timezone UTC+8
How do I get around Kaohsiung?
Taxis, local buses, and bike rentals are readily available; there's also an MRT station nearby.
What are The Best Things to do in Kaohsiung?
Discover what you should do while you're in Kaohsiung.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Fo Guang Shan Monastery
No. 153, Xingde Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 84049
The largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, offering spiritual insights and stunning architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 25 miles
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
No.9 Liantan Rd., Zuoying Dist., Kaohsiung City 813, Taiwan
Enter through the dragon's mouth and exit the tiger's for good luck at this colorful attraction.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
Fengshan Old City
Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Explore historical gates and remnants of the old walled city of Fengshan.
Distance from Terminal: 7.5 miles
Kaohsiung Fine Arts Museum
No. 80, Meishuguan Rd., Gushan District, Kaohsiung City 804, Taiwan
Discover local and international art in a beautifully landscaped environment.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Pier-2 Art Center
No.1, Dayong Rd., Yancheng Dist., Kaohsiung City 803, Taiwan
A funky art district featuring installations, galleries, and performances along a repurposed pier.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Kaohsiung Night Markets
Night markets are located throughout Kaohsiung, such as Liuhe, Ruifeng, and Jin-Zuan.
Savor local street foods and experience the bustling atmosphere of South-East Asian night markets.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Love River Cruise
N/A
A serene river cruise showing the vibrant lights and romantic atmosphere of Kaohsiung by night.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Kaohsiung Film Archive
No.10, Heyi Rd., Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City 803, Taiwan
Watch local and international films with an emphasis on Taiwanese cinema.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Liuhe Tourist Night Market
Liuhe 2nd Rd, Xinxing District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 800
A popular night market known for its wide array of traditional Taiwanese street foods.
Distance from Terminal: 2.8 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Lotus Pond
Liantan Rd., Zuoying Dist., Kaohsiung City 813, Taiwan
A scenic area with temples like the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas and beautiful lotus flowers blooming in spring.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
Sizihwan Bay
No.70, Lianhai Rd., Gushan Dist., Kaohsiung City 804, Taiwan
Enjoy stunning seaside views and sunsets while exploring cultural history at the British Consulate Residence.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Chengcing Lake
No.32, Dapi Rd., Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City 833, Taiwan
A stunning reservoir with paths for biking and walking, surrounded by lush greenery.
Distance from Terminal: 6.8 miles
Shoushan Zoo
No. 350, Wanshou Rd., Gushan Dist., Kaohsiung City 804, Taiwan
Experience unique wildlife native to Taiwan in a cityside zoo with great views.
Distance from Terminal: 3.2 miles
A Little Extra
Pingtung E-Da Theme Park
No. 12, Zihyou Rd., Dashu District, Kaohsiung City 840, Taiwan
A Roman-themed amusement park complete with rides, shops, and Mediterranean architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 25 miles
Buddha's Light International Association
N/A
Attend a cultural event or workshop at this global Buddhist organization.
Distance from Terminal: 23 miles
Weiwuying Metropolitan Park (National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts)
No.1, Sanduo 1st Rd., Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City 830, Taiwan
A stunning architectural masterpiece featuring world-class art performances and interactive exhibits.
Distance from Terminal: 6.5 miles
Taiwan Regional Tip
N/A N/A