Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s bustling southern metropolis, offers more than just vibrant city life and modern attractions. Its strategic location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring a variety of nearby natural, cultural, and historic gems. Whether you are into pristine beaches, cultural villages, national parks, or scenic mountains, you’ll find plenty of fascinating day trip options to satisfy your wanderlust. Here’s a guide to some of the best day trips from Kaohsiung that you can easily enjoy in just one day.
Cijin Island: Beaches and Seafood Delights
Just a short ferry ride from Kaohsiung’s Gushan Ferry Terminal, Cijin Island offers a refreshing seaside escape that’s perfect for a half-day or full-day trip. The island is famous for its golden sandy beaches and inviting waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a peaceful coastal stroll. Besides the beach, Cijin is renowned for its fresh seafood market and street food stalls where you can sample mouthwatering local dishes such as grilled squid, oyster omelets, and the iconic Taiwanese seafood hot pot.
Beyond the food, Cijin Island has several charming attractions: the historic Cijin Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the harbor, the Cijin Windmill Park adds a scenic backdrop for photos, and the Cijin Shell Museum gives insight into the island’s marine biodiversity. Renting a bike is a popular way to explore the island’s scenic spots and coastline efficiently.
Meinong Hakka Culture Village
For those interested in diving into Taiwan’s rich ethnic cultures, a visit to Meinong offers an enlightening day trip. Located about an hour from Kaohsiung, Meinong is a charming Hakka cultural village known for its traditional crafts, rustic old streets, and welcoming atmosphere. The Hakka people are famous for their unique language, cuisine, and architecture, which you can experience firsthand here.
Meinong is particularly famous for its paper umbrella craftsmanship. You can visit workshops where artisans handcraft colorful umbrellas from bamboo and paper, even try your hand at painting one yourself. Wandering through the village, you’ll also find traditional earthen houses, local markets, and eateries serving Hakka delicacies like Lei Cha (ground tea) and savory Hakka-style stuffed tofu. The peaceful countryside setting further enhances the sense of stepping back in time.
Kenting National Park: Natural Beauty and Adventure
If you have more time and crave adventure, Kenting National Park is an unmissable destination. Located roughly two hours from Kaohsiung by car or bus, Kenting is Taiwan’s oldest and one of its most popular national parks, famous for its breathtaking coastal views, tropical climate, and diverse flora and fauna.
The park offers a wealth of outdoor activities: hiking along scenic trails, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring coral reefs, and visiting unique geological formations like Eluanbi Lighthouse and the Lover’s Cove. Kenting’s beaches such as Baisha Beach and Nanwan Beach attract sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The nearby Kenting Night Market is the perfect place to enjoy local street food after a day in nature, offering everything from grilled corn to bubble tea.
Maolin National Scenic Area: Mountains and Indigenous Culture
Another fantastic day trip option is the Maolin National Scenic Area, located about 90 minutes northeast of Kaohsiung. This mountainous region is a haven for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts, known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, hiking trails, and preservation of indigenous Paiwan culture.
Maolin is especially famous for the annual Purple Butterfly Valley phenomenon, when thousands of brightly colored butterflies gather in the forests between November and March. Hiking trails take visitors through serene river valleys, tea plantations, and indigenous villages, where visitors can learn about traditional handicrafts, ceremonies, and cuisine. Hot springs and scenic river rafting add to Maolin’s appeal as a relaxing yet exciting destination.
Getting There: Transportation Tips
Reaching these day trip destinations from Kaohsiung is relatively straightforward thanks to Taiwan’s efficient transportation network. Here’s a quick guide on how to get to each spot:
- Cijin Island: Board the Cijin Ferry from Gushan Ferry Terminal in downtown Kaohsiung. Ferries run frequently, and the ride takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Meinong: Take the Kaohsiung City Bus 850, 851, or 852 from the Kaohsiung Main Station or other city stops. The journey takes roughly 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Kenting National Park: Multiple bus services, including Kingbus and Kuo-Kuang, run from Kaohsiung to Kenting, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. Driving or renting a scooter/car offers more flexibility.
- Maolin National Scenic Area: Take bus routes 804, 815, or 826 from Kaohsiung’s main stations or South Bus Station. Travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your exact destination within the scenic area.
Suggested Itineraries for Your Day Trips
Depending on your interests and the time you want to spend, here are some sample day trip itineraries that maximize your experience:
- Cijin Island Day Trip: Morning ferry to Cijin → Visit Cijin Beach → Explore the seafood market for lunch → Rent a bike and visit Cijin Lighthouse and Windmill Park → Afternoon ferry back to Kaohsiung.
- Meinong Cultural Exploration: Early bus to Meinong → Visit umbrella workshops → Walk through the old town streets and shops → Lunch featuring Hakka cuisine → Explore local markets → Return to Kaohsiung by late afternoon.
- Kenting Adventure Day: Early morning bus or drive to Kenting → Visit Baisha and Nanwan beaches → Hike in Kenting National Park → Explore Eluanbi Lighthouse → Evening stroll at Kenting Night Market → Return to Kaohsiung.
- Maolin Nature and Culture: Depart early by bus → Hike trails around waterfalls and butterfly valley → Visit an indigenous village → Enjoy local Paiwan cuisine for lunch → Visit hot springs if time permits → Return to Kaohsiung in the evening.
Helpful Tips for Taking Day Trips from Kaohsiung
- Start Early: To make the most of your day, catch early buses or ferries to avoid crowds and maximize daylight hours.
- Check Weather Conditions: Coastal and mountainous regions can have variable weather; bring sunscreen, hats, or rain gear as needed.
- Plan Transportation Ahead: Bus schedules and ferry times vary by season — check current timetables online or at stations.
- Carry Cash: Some smaller markets, food stalls, and shuttle buses may not accept credit cards.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many destinations involve walking or hiking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting indigenous villages or cultural sites, be mindful and courteous.
With its convenient location and diverse surroundings, Kaohsiung is a gateway to some of southern Taiwan’s most captivating experiences. Whether you want to relax by the sea, immerse yourself in culture, or explore natural wonders, these day trips from Kaohsiung offer something special for every traveler. Pack your bags, set your itinerary, and uncover the hidden gems waiting just outside the city limits.
