Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a vibrant and dynamic city in the south of Taiwan. With a rich history, including a period of colonial rule, incredible religious and cultural sights, and booming growth, it is no surprise that it is becoming one of the most popular cities outside of Taipei for visitors. 

Kaohsiung originally started out as a small fishing village, however in the early 1600’s this changed when first the Dutch and then the Chinese annexed the area, taking advantage of the natural harbour the city possessed. The city has continued to grow to this day, the port at Kaohsiung now being the busiest in Taiwan. 

The city has a strong Buddhist cultural tradition, being home to the largest monastery on the Island Fo Guang Shan, which is headquarters for an international association of Buddhist Monks. The Buddhist Museum is also located in Kaohsiung, which includes the Great Buddha land, a 36 metre tall Buddhist statue looking over a garden of smaller Buddhas.  

However, it is not just Buddhist architecture the city is famous for. The Dragon & Tiger Tower and Spring and Autumn Pavilions both show off the cities Chinese heritage and speak to the city's future and fusion of cultures and religions. The city continues reinventing itself from an industrial port to a cultural hub has plenty of night markets, temples and good restaurants, and warehouses by the harbour are morphing into galleries and theatres.