Best things to do in Kaohsiung

At the heart of Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit, see why The Dome of Light earned the Formosa Boulevard station the title as one of world's most beautiful metro stations. Located in the station's upper section, the dome features extensive glasswork designed by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata; the record-breaking piece consists of about 4,500 glass panels, covering an area of over 2,180 sq m (23,465 sq ft). The colorful installation tells the story of human life, earth, water, light, fire, and the act of growing.

The seven-story Dragon Tiger Tower stands as a strong example of traditional Kaohsiung style and culture. One of two towers built in 1976, it connects to the other by a bridge. This temple is marked by its yellow walls, orange tiles, and red pillars. In one of the towers you will find representations of the 12 Magi, Confucius, and Jade Emperor's palaces. Before scaling the site's spiral staircase, take a walk along the nearby lake and look out upon the Small Tortoise mountains and several pavilions.

A complex of old warehouses converted into exhibition halls and artsy boutiques, The Pier-2 Art Centre houses various modern art projects in the middle of a huge abandoned industrial district. Take in the psychedelic-colored sculptures, installations, graffiti, large paintings, and other street art, and browse around the various industrial structures, including an old steam engine on display. You can also stroll along the wharf or take a mini-train tour of this post-industrial area, built in 1973. Cafes, bars, bookstores, and handicraft shops cluster in this private, university-managed center.

Take a five-minute ferry from the harbor to Cijin Island, one of the city's top places to savor exotic seafood. Apart from the fine dining, the island also offers a clean beach with warm waters suitable for swimming and water sports. Visit the lighthouse built by British engineers in 1883, and check out the nearby fort, marine museum, parks, and temples. The weather can get extremely hot here, so carry extra water and don't forget the sunscreen.

Occupying a special place in the hearts of locals, Ai He (Love River) plays an important role in the city's tourism, economy, and culture. Go on a solar-powered boat tour to observe the tidal river and enjoy the picturesque city scenery. You can also rent bikes from stands along the riverbank to explore the surrounding attractions, such as lively night markets and outdoor cafes with live music. The government has significantly improved the water quality over the past few years, but floodgates still must remain open during rainy season, which can send pollution into the river's lower stretch.

Bike or walk around Lianchi (Lotus) Lake, a natural body of water dotted by historic sites. This lake is located in a tranquil area of the city known for temples, making it a good place to go for a stroll or rent a bicycle. Walking around the lake's 3 km (2 mi) trail takes a little over two hours; there are places to stop and eat or drink along the way.

Discover one of the world's largest collections of violins at Chimei Museum, packed with artworks, music instruments, artifacts of warfare, and natural history displays. Those with an interest in military history flock to the collection of ancient weapons, split up into a European and non-European exhibit. Amenities include a cafe and gift shop.

The oldest park of its kind in the country, Kenting National Park encompasses the southern tip of Taiwan and features mountains, lush vegetation, and rugged coastal stretches. Pay a visit to this popular national park to explore the wild extremes of the Hengchun Peninsula, where rocky cliffs meet the churning waves. Use the network of paths and trails to view the jungle and its wildlife, including a population of native monkeys. Keep in mind that the park also offers a number of sandy beaches where you can kick back and admire ocean views. Try hitting the waves, or go snorkeling to view the park's colorful offshore coral. Renting a bike or a scooter makes for an efficient way to sightsee around the park, and also helps to reduce fatigue in the tropical climate.

Home to one of the tooth relics of Gautama Buddha, Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum serves as a Mahayana Buddhist center. This complex opened in 2011 as an educational, religious, and cultural space for local and foreign visitors. Located behind the main temple, this area is over 100 hectares (247 acres) and has eight Chinese pagodas symbolizing the Noble Eightfold Path. Here, you will also find stupas that represent the Four Noble Truths, Welcoming Hall, Memorial Hall, and a photo terrace where you can capture images to show friends at home.

Learn about Buddhism and enjoy the spectacular countryside views at Fo Guang Shan, a 100 hectare (247 acre) complex. The hilltop monastery houses around 1,000 monks and preserves a tooth relic of Buddha. Walk around the tranquil garden and visit all of the eight pagodas, as well as an enormous Buddha statue. While enjoying the peaceful surroundings, you can pray, meditate, or have a vegetarian meal in one of the onsite restaurants. The monks are happy to share their knowledge with visitors.

Get away to experience the life of leisure at Xiao Liu Qiu. With friendly people and plenty of restaurants, the island serves as a destination for those looking to take a break from everyday life. Rent a scooter to explore the island, looking for the strange natural rock formations and caves. Soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, or go swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters around the island to see the typical marine life in the area. Don't worry about crowds, as the seclusion of the island provides plenty privacy.

Built in 1653, Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia) represents a Dutch outpost that has been preserved since the days of colonization. This attraction was named by the Dutch after a nearby indigenous village, which is now called Tainan. Though this site was surrendered to the Koxinga and then demolished by an earthquake in the 1800s, it has since been rebuilt. This new structure served at the capital of the island and later opened to the public for tours. Take note of the site's architectural value as well as its library.

Satisfy any intellectual or architectural cravings by visiting Kaohsiung Main Public Library, whose towering glass facade invites visitors to read, study or explore the vast array of books-- although many are not in English. Featuring a 'library garden' situated on the top of the glass building, the library offers visitors a chance to experience the bizarre architectural possibilities in Taiwan. Look out for the peaceful architectural spaces with a hint of nature nestled in the surroundings, or visit in the evening to see the building lit up-- sometimes with colours.

At Anping Tree House, you won't find a house built on a tree, but rather, a tree and vines becoming one with a building. The structure, originally a Tai & Co. warehouse, is thought to have been built at the end of the 19th century. Since its abandonment, a fairytale-like Banyan tree has grown through the house, with many more trees, branches, and vines growing around it. Now, many artists and tourists have visited this overgrown space to engage with intersection of human history, nature, and their own imaginations.