Kaohsiung

KAOHSIUNG, TAIWAN

To get the best experience in Kaohsiung, you need to book one of our local friendly tour guides. They will show you around and make you feel like a local from the moment you arrive. Whether you want to see the famous tourist sights or discover places off the beaten track, our Guides4me guide will make it happen. We also offer cruise ship private shore excursions, designed to fit your schedule and ensure you make the most of your time in port, with a personalised and stress-free experience.

Chris

Chris is LGBT friendly and speaks English, Mandarin Chinese and Taiwanese.

Born and raised in the vibrant heart of Taipei. Chris is a passionate writer, journalist, researcher, and certified tour guide with official English and Mandarin qualifications accredited by the Taiwanese government. Since 2016, he has been sharing his love for the city by leading immersive tours, guiding both locals and tourists alike through the rich tapestry of Taipei’s history, culture, and hidden gems.

In addition to his tours. Chris volunteers at the National Taiwan Museum, where he leads monthly walking tours in English, delving into the museum’s fascinating exhibitions and the historical districts surrounding it. With a deep knowledge of Taipei’s heritage buildings, he brings the city’s past to life. Therefore offering a unique perspective on Taiwan’s vibrant cultural landscape.

His passion for history, culture, politics, and the arts drives his work, always seeking to connect the stories of the past with the pulse of the present. Whether it’s uncovering the layers of Taipei’s history or engaging in thought-provoking discussions about the future, Chris is dedicated to showing the world just how extraordinary Taipei truly is.

Total cost for the guide services of Chris for one day (6 hours) = a booking fee of USD 39 via Paypal, debit / credit cards, bank transfer or Crypto Currency plus USD 620 in cash to Chris after his services. This makes a total of USD 659.

This excludes any transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs.

“Chris is really good, speaks excellent English, is very knowledgeable. I enjoyed the time with him. On time, cares for you , follows your wishes, flexible for your needs .” – Wolfgang, Singapore.

Our other destinations in Taiwan are Hualien and Taipei.

Kaohsiung: Taiwan’s Vibrant Port City

Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second-largest city and one of the most important ports in Asia. Located in the south of the island, it offers a mix of modern attractions, cultural landmarks and beautiful waterfront areas. The city enjoys a warmer climate than Taipei, making it a popular destination throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, excellent public transport and a wide range of attractions suitable for all ages.

Cruise Lines That Visit Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a major cruise destination in East Asia and is included on many regional and international itineraries. Cruise lines that regularly call at the port include Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. The port is also popular with several Asian cruise operators, making it a busy gateway for travellers exploring Taiwan and the wider region.

Kaohsiung Cruise Terminal Location

The Kaohsiung Port Cruise Terminal is conveniently located near the city centre. Most cruise passengers can reach central Kaohsiung within 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or public transport. The terminal is situated on the waterfront and offers easy access to major attractions, shopping districts and hotels. This convenient location allows visitors to maximise their time ashore without lengthy transfers.

Distance from Taipei to Kaohsiung

Taipei and Kaohsiung are approximately 350 kilometres apart. The two cities are connected by an excellent transport network, making travel between them quick and straightforward. Whether arriving by cruise or planning a land-based holiday, travelling between Taiwan’s largest cities is both convenient and efficient.

The Fastest Way to Travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung

The fastest and most popular way to travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung is by Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR). Journey times typically range from 1 hour and 35 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the service selected. The trains are comfortable, reliable and operate frequently throughout the day. Travelling by high-speed rail is often quicker and more convenient than flying when airport transfer and check-in times are taken into account.

Visit Lotus Pond

Lotus Pond is one of Kaohsiung’s most famous attractions. The scenic lake is surrounded by colourful temples, pagodas and traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, which are among the most photographed landmarks in southern Taiwan.

Explore Pier-2 Art Centre

Pier-2 Art Centre is a creative district located within converted warehouse buildings near the harbour. The area features contemporary art exhibitions, outdoor sculptures, galleries, cafés and cultural events. It is a favourite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a modern side of Kaohsiung.

Enjoy the Love River

The Love River flows through the heart of the city and is one of Kaohsiung’s most attractive waterfront areas. Visitors can take a river cruise, enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade or relax in one of the many cafés overlooking the water. The river is particularly beautiful during the evening when the city lights reflect on the water.

Discover Fo Guang Shan Monastery

Fo Guang Shan is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. The site features impressive temples, peaceful gardens and the towering Buddha Museum. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Buddhist culture while enjoying a tranquil setting away from the city centre.

Take in the Views from Cijin Island

Cijin Island is a short ferry ride from central Kaohsiung and is known for its beaches, seafood restaurants and coastal scenery. Visitors can hire bicycles, explore historic sites and enjoy panoramic views of the harbour. The island provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment.

Shop at Kaohsiung’s Night Markets

No visit to Kaohsiung would be complete without experiencing its lively night markets. Popular markets offer a wide variety of local street food, souvenirs and entertainment. Visitors can sample Taiwanese specialities while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that makes Taiwan’s night markets famous throughout the world.

Why Visit Kaohsiung?

Kaohsiung combines modern city life, rich cultural heritage and beautiful waterfront attractions. Its convenient cruise terminal, fast transport connections to Taipei and diverse range of sights make it an excellent destination for cruise passengers and independent travellers alike. Whether you are interested in culture, food, history or outdoor activities, Kaohsiung offers something for everyone.

Friendly, Trusted Local Guides

At Guides4me.com, we carefully select every guide. They’re knowledgeable, professional, and passionate about making your visit special. Many of our guides speak multiple languages, understand cruise timings, and know exactly how to make the most of your limited time in port.
You’ll leave feeling like you’ve spent the day with a local friend, not a tour leader.

Why Travellers Love Guides4me shore excursions

• Personal, private, and affordable tours
• Trusted, handpicked local tour excursion guides
• 100% tailor-made experiences
• Small groups for a relaxed, friendly feel
• Easy booking with full cruise schedule awareness

Our knowledgeable LGBT friendly local guides are ready to customize your tour to your specific interests. Whether it’s exploring the culture, food, history, or shopping scene. We’ll take you on a one-of-a-kind adventure off the beaten path to discover the authentic side of the city, away from the usual tourist crowds. At Guides4me, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Therefore ensuring a memorable and worry-free experience.

Our guides are dedicated to providing you with personalized, high-quality service, so you can relax and enjoy the best that Kaohsiung has to offer. So why settle for tourist traps? Let Guides4me take care of everything during your visit to Kaohsiung.

In conclusion, with us, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re in good hands, and you’ll discover the true highlights of this enchanting city.

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