8 Wonderful Day Trips From Kaohsiung You Really Shouldn’t Miss

Taiwan being a small island, not only is it easy to visit its many wonders if you don’t own a car, but you don’t need to move cities every day either, as you can simply base yourself in Kaohsiung, for example and have fun on day trips. Here are 8 of them!

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1. Cijin island

Not into big cities, or just want to escape the noise and bustling markets of Kaohsiung? Look no further than Cijin island! Only 5 minutes away by fast ferry, this island is just what you’ve been dreaming of when you think of a sweet escape with still plenty to do and see.

Whether it’s sunbathing on the beach, exploring its coastline, admiring its unique and quirky art or sampling delicious seafood, Cijin offers many activities to satisfy everyone’s interests.

And if you want to see all its secrets and beauties in a single day, you can rent a bicycle for just NT$100 ($3) or you can take it easy, use your legs and chill on one of the beaches, a mocktail or cocktail in hand.

Wondering what the best sights on Cijin island are? Here are my favorites!

2. Taitung

Taitung is a rather underrated town in Taiwan, often overlooked by travelers for of lack of time or information. This is a pity, because this city is the ideal place if you love both nature and culture.

More serene and scenic than some of its neighboring cities, whether you like the mountains, the ocean or are looking to immerse yourself in its unique culture, you’ve got it all in Taitung. I pretty much fell in love with Taitung and I’m sure its natural charms will do the same for you. Plus, it’s only 2 hours from Kaohsiung on a day trip, so what do you think? Are you tempted?

Some of its best sights include Jinzun (for a fun surf trip), Taitung Forest Park and Jialulan Recreation Area.

3. Fo Guang Shan

If there’s one site I can’t recommend highly enough for your Taiwan itinerary, it’s this one! Fo Guang Shan‘s grandeur and splendor is like no other, and even if you’re not really a history enthusiast or know anything about Buddha, a day trip to discover the treasures of this cultural site will surely not leave you indifferent.

Spread over 100 hectares, you’ll definitely need at least half a day to explore its breathtaking works of art!

Fo Guang Shan is also the perfect place to escape your daily worries thanks to its serene and enchanting atmosphere, not to mention the fact that it’s a free activity just 1h20 from the coastal beauty of Kaohsiung!

And if you want to get an idea of what to expect, here’s my detailed guide to this important cultural site!

4. Kenting National Park

Do you like turquoise waters, coral reefs, dense forests and adventure? Add Kenting National Park to your bucket list then!

If you’re a nature lover, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this tropical paradise. Its natural beauty also provide superb hiking trails that allow you to enjoy stunning views of the ocean. If you’d rather explore the underwater world, grab your mask and snorkel and dive into its colorful waters.

Only 2.5 hours from Kaohsiung, I’d still recommend renting a scooter to make the most of Kenting, as buses aren’t the most reliable once you’re in the village.

5. Meinong

Located less than 2 hours from Kaohsiung, the village of Meinong, famous for its Hakka culture, is a lovely gem filled with historical landmarks, serene landscapes and unique history.

Preserved traditions, local cuisine and the hospitality of the locals are just some of the things you can expect on a day trip here. So if you’d like to experience the richness of a culture that accounts for around 20% of the population of Taiwan, you’ll probably want to check out the wonders and charm of Meinong!

6. Tainan

More of a history and architecture buff? Then, Tainan is the place for you! This time, all you have to do is sit comfortably on the train for an hour before you can visit and enjoy the oldest city in Taiwan!

Surprising, original and a haven of peace , that’s how I’d describe the country’s fourth-largest city.

And don’t worry, it’s not just for the traveler eager to learn more about Taiwan’s roots, as Tainan also has an array of parks, a salt mountain and a mangrove for those looking for wilder options.

Let’s not forget that the city is also the birthplace of one of the most delicious drinks: bubble tea or to one of the world’s most dangerous festivals: the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival!

A pretty exciting city, isn’t it?

7. Tianliao Moon World

Ever wanted to walk on the moon? Now you can, if you venture into the badlands of Tianliao Moon World!

One thing’s for sure, it’s not a common sight that awaits you, and if you want a change of landscape that looks more gloomy and barren, as if straight out of an apocalyptic world, you can’t find a better spot in Taiwan.

Only 2 hours from the coastal city, this is another day trip well worth a visit!

8. Lotus Pond

Temples, mythology and lotus flowers – doesn’t that sound like a nice backdrop for a beautiful story? This is the story of the must-see and peaceful Lotus Pond, which is actually an artificial lake right on the outskirts of the city (20-30 minutes depending on the mode of transport you choose).

Famous destination in Taiwan, it is said that you can avoid bad luck here by entering through the dragon’s throat and exiting through the tiger’s mouth. Well worth a try I guess, isn’t it?

If only for the splendid paintings, sculptures and the place itself, a visit to the Lotus Pond is a must-see for a relaxing getaway in Kaohsiung.

So what would be your favorite of all these day trips? Let me know in the comments!

And if you want to get an idea of what else you can see in Kaohsiung, here’s my top 10!

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