The Best of Taiwan | A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Art
Hotel Nikko Kaohsiung recommends four spots in Taipei City where you can take a journey through nature, culture, and art.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas – Lianchihtan (Lotus Pond) Scenic Area
Lotus Lake is a historic and picturesque attraction in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Surrounded by a beautiful lake, you’ll find historical landmarks such as the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and the Confucian Temple.
This creates a scenic landscape, where nature and culture blend seamlessly. The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are made with intricate ceramic decorations inside. Local belief says that entering the dragon’s mouth and exiting the tiger’s mouth will bring good fortune and wards off evil. From the top floor of the pagodas, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lotus Lake.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas – Lianchihtan (Lotus Pond) Scenic Area
- Address： Liantan Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan 813
- Access from the hotel： 10 minutes walk from Zuoying Station on the MRT
Qijin Island – Qijin District
Qijin Island is a charming island located just a short 10-minute ferry ride from Kaohsiung City. It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, take a refreshing bike ride along the coast, or indulge in delicious seafood.
The island boasts a wide variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices. You can savor local delicacies like steamed clams and miso fish at the famous “Qijin Seafood Restaurant”.
In addition to its culinary delights, Qijin Island is also home to several other attractions, including a lighthouse with panoramic views of Kaohsiung City and historical sites like the Cihou Fort and the Wind Power Park. The island also features traditional Chinese architecture, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
Qijin Island – Qijin District
- Address： No. 35, Miaoqian Rd, Qijin District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan 813
- Access from the hotel： 10 minutes by ferry from Xiziwan Station on the MRT. About 15 minutes by car to Gushan Ferry Terminal.
The Pier-2 Art Center
The Pier-2 Art Center, located in Kaohsiung’s harbor area, is a vibrant space where art and culture come together. What was once a collection of warehouses, has been transformed into a dynamic venue for various artistic expressions, including contemporary art exhibitions, street performances, and public art installations.
Large-scale art events and workshops that locals can participate in are frequently held here, providing a place that stimulates creativity not only for artists and students but also for many other people. Strolling through outdoor sculptures and modern galleries while taking in the beautiful scenery of the harbor town is also one of its attractions.
The Pier-2 Art Center is also attractive for its prime location, offering a panoramic view of the beautiful Kaohsiung Harbor. In between art appreciation, it is also recommended to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the harbor town and relax by the sea.
The Pier-2 Art Center
- Address： No.1, Dayong Rd., Yancheng Dist., Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
- Access from the hotel： 10-minute on the MRT to Yanchengpu Station, then a 5-minute walk to the hotel
Sizihwan
Sizihwan, one of the eight scenic spots of Kaohsiung, is a popular spot known for its stunning sunset and sandy beach. With its prime location overlooking the vast sea, including Sizihwan Beach and Seaside Park, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The British Consulate, said to be the oldest Western style building in Kaohsiung, is a historical site located on a small hill, offering views of Kaohsiung Harbor and the sunset over the horizon. At Sizihwan, you can enjoy the lively scenery unique to a port town while feeling its history.
Kaohsiung has several popular night markets, but near Sizihwan Station, there’s a local community-based night market held only on Saturdays. It’s a must-visit, offering popular local gourmet food, miscellaneous goods, and games in a truly authentic atmosphere.
Sizihwan
- Address： No. 51, Lianhai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 804
- Access to the hotel： 10-minute walk from Sizihwan Station on the MRT, or about 15 minutes by car.
Hotel Nikko Kaohsiung
Hotel Nikko Kaohsiung is located in Kaohsiung, which is Taiwan’s second-largest city, with a thriving international harbor strategically located on the busy shipping lanes between Northeast Asia and the South Pacific. A number of Japanese companies have offices around the harbor, one of Kaohsiung’s sightseeing spots, offering visitors fine views. It takes about 90 minutes by Taiwan High Speed Rail from the city to Taiwan’s capital city, Taipei.
