Kaohsiung City Guide

Local dishes include beef noodles, oyster omelet, and braised pork rice. Night markets offer many street foods late into the night. The city has many vegetarian options and a growing international food scene.

Nightlife includes night markets, casual pubs, bars, and clubs especially near Pier-2 Art Center and Love River.

The city has a lively coffee scene with many specialty cafes and local roasters. Cafes are good places to work or socialize.

Tipping is not expected in Taiwan. Restaurants may add a 10% service charge, but no extra tipping is needed for taxis or services.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and telecom shops. Major providers are Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, and Taiwan Mobile. Passport is needed to register. eSIMs may be available.

Streets are mostly clean, especially downtown. Taipei's recycling and waste collection programs are in place.

Convenience stores operate 24/7 and many food places stay open late. 24/7 pharmacies and clinics are rare.

Supermarkets like Carrefour and RT-Mart offer international products. Wet markets sell fresh local goods. Most stores open from mid-morning to late evening. Small shops sometimes close on holidays.

Major stores and restaurants accept cards, but many small shops and markets prefer cash. Carry cash for daily use.

ATMs are common in convenience stores and banks. International cards are accepted at major banks like Cathay United and CTBC. Withdrawal fees apply, around NT$100 per transaction.

International schools like Kaohsiung American School and Morrison Academy teach in English. Local schools teach in Mandarin. Applications usually open in late fall or winter.

Small but growing digital nomad scene with some meetups and co-working spaces. Online groups help connect remote workers.

Large parks like Central Park and Metropolitan Park offer shade and running paths. Riverside parks along Love River add green space.

Popular running routes along Love River, Central Park, and Lotus Pond. Generally safe; air quality can vary seasonally.

Multiple gyms with day passes and short memberships.

Tennis courts at public and private clubs. Booking and some equipment rental possible.

Padel courts are rare but growing in number.

Many studios offer various styles and drop-in classes. Some English-speaking instructors.

Training facilities for Taekwondo, Judo, Karate, Wing Chun, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Some gyms have English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available due to Taiwan's climate.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available on Love River. Some sailing and windsurfing near Sizihwan Bay.

No good surf spots in Kaohsiung. Closest surfing is about 1.5–2 hours away in Kenting National Park.

Limited diving near Kaohsiung; better sites are in Kenting and offshore islands.

Good quality public and private hospitals with English-speaking staff at major facilities. Pharmacies are common and well-stocked. Emergency numbers are 110 (police) and 119 (fire/ambulance).

Tap water is treated but not recommended to drink without boiling. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.

Several parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Baby supplies are widely available. Attractions like Taroko Park and National Science and Technology Museum are good for families.

Taiwan is the most progressive in Asia on LGBTQ+ rights. Kaohsiung hosts Pride and has welcoming venues. Discrimination is low.

Pet policies vary. Vet clinics and pet supplies are common. Some pet-friendly parks and accommodations exist but are limited.