Clustered with soaring skyscrapers, Kaohsiung City Centre lies alongside a bustling port on Taiwan’s south-west coast. It was founded in the 17th century as a small trading village and has evolved into a major political and economic hub, with impressive museums and public art installations among its attractions.
Things to do in Kaohsiung City Centre
Inquisitive minds can visit the National Science and Technology Museum, which is comprised of several galleries and an IMAX 3D theatre. In addition to learning about the industrial and technological development of Taiwan and how science has influenced its society, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get hands-on. You can experience what it was like to endure Typhoon Morakot and step into other worlds via the VR headsets.
Kaohsiung City Centre is home to the world’s largest art installation created from coloured glass, the “Dome of Light”, which was envisioned by the Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata. It is located at the Kaohsiung MRT transfer station and tells the story of human life through images that reflect birth, growth and the creative spirit.
For elevated views across Kaohsiung City Centre, ride one of the high-speed elevators that lead to the observation deck of the 85 Sky Tower. At 347 metres in height, it was once the tallest skyscraper in Taiwan and exhibits an unusual prong shape. Inspired by the first Chinese character of “Kaohsiung”, it features two lower sections that merge into a central tower.
Getting around Kaohsiung City Centre
Kaohsiung International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Asia. Long-distance trains connect to the Kaohsiung Main railway station while MRT services travel throughout the city centre. Kaohsiung also has a Circular Light Rail Line that accesses many of its attractions.