1. A Unique Testament To Everyday Creativity
Surely one of the most idiosyncratic Taoist temples anywhere in the world, Tiánliáo was constructed by a gang of migrant road workers after their bosses went bust. Instead of resting on their tools, they collaborated with a small neighborhood temple and created something astonishing. Its shell and stone encrusted walkways and verandahs remind you more of Gaudi's Barcelona than Asian traditions, while visitors are treated to daily vegetarian feasts as part of the package, making it all pretty hard to resist.
2. From Warehouses To Artistic Wonderland
Modern-day Kaohsiung is one of Taiwan's artistic hubs, and nowhere is this more clearly on display than Pier 2 - the city's most dynamic district. Located in the Yangcheng neighborhood, Pier 2 was originally an industrial warehouse. However, the economy shifted and the space became derelict. But artists swooped in, and Pier 2 was born in 2006. Nowadays, it's a forest of art spaces, clothing boutiques, and musical performance spaces, and a key place for local talent to show off its design chops. There's even a toy train ride for kids to enjoy while the adults peruse the artworks.
3. Savor Some Snacks In True Taiwanese Style
Kaohsiung is a bustling commercial center, and much of its activity is centered around a series of "night markets." While Xinjuejiang is probably the place to head for clothes shopping, Ruifeng is more appetizing still, with its massive selection of street food stalls. Head down to the Yucheng Road to try Taiwanese snacks like Angel Chicken, aromatic deep fried tofu, and even western fusion dishes like quesadilla burgers. Whatever your taste extends to, Ruifeng is the place to go.
4. Make It Your Mission To See This Missionary Hub
Located around 30 miles northeast of Kaohsiung City, Fo Guang Shan is an unmissable religious site. This time around, things are more conventional, but just as impressive. The largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, Fo Guang Shan is the center for a global missionary movement, and it's a thriving place. When you get there, the seated golden Buddha is the first thing you'll notice, but there are other treasures on-site, including the row of eight pagodas along the "Way to Buddhahood" and the Buddha Memorial Center, which boasts a rare Buddha tooth relic.
5. History And Relaxation In One Heady Mix
Situated in the Zuoying neighborhood, Lotus Lake was built in the 1950s and now serves as Kaohsiung's premier recreational spot. Attractions around the fringes of the lake include the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions with their fearsome dragon sculptures, but there's more here to enjoy than temples. The whole lake is ringed by a 2 mile long cycle path, while you can also see the centuries-old city walls of Fengshan, and a 17th century Confucian temple. It's a wonderful place to wander and absorb some history.
