1. City Introduction
Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second-largest city and a world-class international harbor. According to the Kaohsiung City Government Tourism Bureau, the city is characterized by its passion, ocean views, and rich cultural heritage. From the historical temples of Zuoying to the futuristic architecture of the Asia New Bay Area, Kaohsiung offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. For ALSA attendees, it is a vibrant destination where sunny skies meet boundless creativity.
2. NYCU in Kaohsiung
NYCU Kaohsiung Campus — Our Kaohsiung campus is strategically located in the Zuoying District, right next to the famous Lotus Pond (Lianchi Tan). Situated near the HSR Zuoying Station, this campus focuses on graduate research and industry-academia collaboration, particularly in the fields of semiconductor research and artificial intelligence. It stands as a beacon of high-tech education in Southern Taiwan, combining cutting-edge research environments with the serene beauty of the lake.
3. Getting There from Hsinchu
Traveling to the Kaohsiung campus is extremely convenient as it is located near the High Speed Rail terminal.
| Route | THSR Hsinchu Station ➔ THSR Zuoying Station |
| Travel Time | Approximately 90 minutes |
| To the Campus | The campus is just a short taxi ride (5-10 mins) or a scenic walk from Zuoying Station. |
4. Top Attractions
A. Lotus Pond Scenic Area
The Spiritual Heart of Kaohsiung
Located in Zuoying, known as the “City of Gods,” Lotus Pond is famous for its cluster of temples. The most iconic landmark is the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Entering through the dragon’s throat and exiting via the tiger’s mouth symbolizes turning bad luck into good fortune. The nearby Spring and Autumn Pavilions and the massive Statue of Xuanwu are also must-see cultural heritage sites.
B. The Pier-2 Art Center
Old Warehouses turned Creative Hub
Originally a cluster of abandoned harbor warehouses, Pier-2 has been transformed into a vibrant open-air art museum. It is the center of Kaohsiung’s design and creative energy, featuring contemporary art galleries, massive public sculptures, and hipster lifestyle markets. It reflects the city’s successful transition from heavy industry to culture.
C. Kaohsiung Music Center & Love River Bay
The Future of the Harbor
A key highlight of the “Asia New Bay Area,” the Kaohsiung Music Center features avant-garde architecture inspired by ocean waves and coral. A stroll along the Great Harbor Bridge (Dagang Bridge)—Asia’s longest swing bridge—offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the sea.
D. Cijin Island
Historical Island Getaway
Just a 5-minute ferry ride from the city, Cijin is a long, narrow island that serves as a natural breakwater for the harbor. Visitors can explore the Cihou Lighthouse, the historical Cihou Fort, and enjoy a relaxed bike ride along the coast.
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5. Culinary Delights & Dining
A. Night Markets: The Soul of Taiwanese Food
Ruifeng Night Market
The Local’s Favorite
Located near the Kaohsiung Arena (and close to the NYCU campus), Ruifeng is where the locals go. It is famous for its high energy and massive variety of street foods, from Angel Fried Chicken to Mini Hot Pots. It is the perfect place to experience the authentic nightlife of Kaohsiung.
Liuhe Night Market
The Classic Tourist Spot
Known for its wide, pedestrian-friendly streets, Liuhe is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan. It specializes in seafood, including Salt-Crusted Prawns and Eel Noodles. It is very accessible for international visitors.
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B. Famous Restaurants
Old New Taiwanese Cuisine
Traditional Flavors, Modern Aesthetics
This restaurant reimagines traditional Taiwanese banquet dishes with a modern twist. Known for its retro-chic interior and “Omakase” (chef’s choice) style menus, it is an excellent venue for scholars to experience refined local cuisine without the chaos of a street stall.
Gangyuan Beef Noodle
A Legendary Noodle Shop
Located near the Love River, Gangyuan has been a staple in Kaohsiung for over 60 years. They are famous for their Beef Mixing Noodles (Dry), featuring chewy noodles tossed in savory beef tallow and soy sauce.
C. Unique Local Fast Food
Dandan Hamburger
Exclusive to the South
A must-try experience available only in Southern Taiwan. Dandan is famous for its unique combo meals that pair Crispy Fried Chicken with traditional Thick Pork Soup (Geng) or Oyster Vermicelli.
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6. More Information & Data Sources
| Official Website (English): | https://khh.travel/en/ |
| Attraction Search: | Explore Kaohsiung Attractions |
| Traffic Information: | Getting Around Kaohsiung |
Photo Credits: Images used on this page are courtesy of Kaohsiung Travel.