KAOHSIUNG AIRPORT TO KAOHSIUNG CITY CENTER

Detailed travel blog on how to get from Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center and Getting around in Kaohsiung. 

Kaohsiung is one of my favorite cities in Taiwan because of its heavy urban renewal, green spaces, art spaces, and smart city initiatives. When I first traveled to Kaohsiung, I didn’t have a hard time getting around this third largest city in the country because its transportation system is well-connected. Its MRT lines are easy-to-follow, not complicated because there are only two lines! That time, I visited the typical top tourist spots for first timers in Kaohsiung. Most of it was within the city center. But when I returned via cruise with Dream Cruises of Resorts World,  I was pleasantly surprised that this bustling port city actually packs a punch.  Cruise ships usually dock at the Port of  Kaohsiung, which is actually the biggest and busiest harbor in Taiwan. The Port of Kaohsiung reportedly handles 60% of Taiwan’s maritime import and export. And they even revived some of the pier in Kaohsiung as art spaces, shopping centers, and tourist spots, resulting in its increasing appeal to both local and international tourists.

Here’s a quick guide on how to travel from Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center and How to get around Kaohsiung City.

KAOHSIUNG PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE

Taiwan Tourism is giving away Taiwan travel vouchers worth NTD 5,000 (₱9,687). Prizes are provided in the form of a pre-paid e-ticket or a set of accommodation vouchers. To qualify, you must be an independent traveler (not part of a group tour) who holds a foreign passport, you’re staying in Taiwan for 3-90 days, and you’re not applying for a group-related incentive.

You need to register your personal information, such as, name, passport number, nationality, e-mail address, arrival date and flight, and departure date 1-7 days before your arrival in Taiwan. You will receive a QR code via e-mail, so make sure the e-mail you used to register is valid and working. This travel campaign will run until September 2025.

TAIWAN TOURISM GIVE AWAY: REGISTER HERE

KAOHSIUNG TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

When in Kaohsiung, staying connected online is highly recommended because language barrier will make it hard for you to ask for directions and get around the city. Thankfully, Taiwan is a digitally-savvy country. Google maps, Google translate app, and other travel apps can help you navigate the area. I suggest you rent a pocket Wi-Fi (best for group of travelers) or just get a Taiwan e-sim. You can purchase one through the link below.

• Taiwan E-Sim: RESERVE HERE OR   BOOK HERE

• Cheap Flights to Taiwan Flights: SEARCH HERE

• Flight Insurance Claim (FREE): SUBMIT HERE

• Travel Insurance: BOOK HERE

KAOHSIUNG AIRPORT TO FORMOSA BOULEVARD

For such a small country, Taiwan is astoundingly progressive and well-connected. It boast of an efficient transportation network that you can experience when you travel around the city and even around the country.  It has an incredible transport terminals that seamlessly connect the airport, metro lines, bus, and High-Speed Rail System (HSR). So, getting around the country even if you’re traveling solo is pretty straightforward.

KAOHSIUNG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO KAOHSIUNG CITY CENTER

From the Philippines, you have 2 options to enter Taiwan by air. You can either take a non-stop or direct flight to Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport) or fly to Kaohsiung (Kaohsiung International Airport).

If you’re flying to Kaohsiung International Airport, you have the following choices to get from Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung city center.

KAOHSIUNG AIRPORT TO KAOHSIUNG CITY CENTER BY MRT

To get from Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center by MRT, at (R4) Kaohsiung International Airport, hop on the red line at Platform 2 to  Gangshan Station. Alight at Formosa Boulevard Station (R10). Transit time is approximately 16 minutes. MRT fare is roughly NTD 30 (₱58). From Formosa Boulevard, transfer and ride the MRT to the station nearest to your hotel. Use Google Maps for reference.

If you’re landing in Kaohsiung and you need to go to your accommodation in the city center, here’s how to do it via MRT/train. Kaohsiung has 2 MRT station lines: The Red, Orange and Yellow Green Line. So it’s not that complicated to get around here by metro. For me this is a cheaper option if you’re traveling solo or a group of 2-3 and you’re just traveling light or just carrying 1 luggage per pax as you can save a few bucks.

KAOHSIUNG AIRPORT TO KAOHSIUNG CITY CENTER BY AIRPORT TRANSFER

If you’re traveling as a group, especially if you’re traveling with kids and seniors and you are carrying a lot of luggage, a recommended way to get from Kaohshiung Airport to Kaohsiung city center is by Kaohsiung airport transfer to your hotel. You can book a hassle-free airport transfer through the links below:

• Taipei Airport Transfer: CHECK RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE
• Kaohsiung Airport Transfer: BOOK HERE OR RESERVE HERE

GETTING AROUND KAOHSIUNG

1. BY MRT & LRT

I prefer going around Kaohsiung by MRT & LRT than by bus, because it’s less complicated and there are abundant signage in English and maps that make it easier to use. MRT & LRT fare minimum fare is NTD 20 (₱38).

Currently, Kaoshiung MRT only has 2 lines, the RED LINE (Gangshan Station – Siogang) and the ORANGE LINE (Hamasen – Daliao) that meets at Formosa Boulevard Station. First train trip leaves daily at 5:55 AM and last trip is at 12:00 Midnight, except Sunday when last train is at 11:45 PM.

The GREEN LINE is the LRT line. Operating hours is from 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM with headway of 15 minutes throughout the day.

To get around Kaohsiung and Taiwan, the following cards/tickets will help you:

• Taiwan Easy Card: BUY HERE OR RESERVE HERE

EasyCard is used for multiple travels around Taiwan including Kaohsiung city, that is used for MRT, railway, buses, and bikes. Rate for public transportation is also discounted when you use the EasyCard. Booking sites such as Klook and KKDAY offer a bundle of the Taiwan EasyCard + Simcard, you can purchase through the link above. EasyCard is widely used in Taiwan, so it’s pretty convenient. You can even use it at 7Eleven and other participating stores and services.

IMPORTANT: When you purchase the EasyCard, you have the option to just buy the card only or you can purchase the card with credit so you can use the card already upon claiming it. If you only buy the EasyCard, you can top it at the MRT stations or convenience stores. Pretty much like the Beep Card in the Philippines.

• IPASS: BOOK HERE OR BUY HERE

Kaohsiung has its own public transport card called Ipass. It is mostly used by the locals in Kaohsiung but it can also be used for the rest of Taiwan’s public transport.

So, you can either purchase an EasyCard or IPass for MRT, railways, buses, bikes. Then just top it up. Transportation rates are also discounted when you are using EasyCard or IPass and will save you time queuing just to buy bus or MRT/LRT tickets..

• KAOHSIUNG MRT TICKET (1-2 DAYS PASS): BOOK HERE OR BUY DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE

You can purchase a 1–2-day MRT pass through the links above if you’re traveling in Kaohsiung. You can also buy a combination pass MRT + Light Rail Ticket (Train) for Kaohsiung, click the link above for the price.

IMPORTANT:

• Eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the train and within the train station.
• All passengers shall pay the full fare while children under 6 years old (over 115 cm tall must present proper identification) can take a FREE RIDE when riding with a passenger with valid tickets.
• Passengers entering and leaving different stations can stay up to 2 hours. If you stay beyond 2 hours at the station an overtime fee will be charged at the automatic gates or at the station information counter.
• For passengers entering and leaving the same station, you can only stay up to 15 minutes. Otherwise, you will be charge the minimum single journey fare. For passengers entering and exiting Formosa Boulevard, if you exceed 15 minutes inside the station, you’ll be charged a minimum single journey fare plus overtime fee.

TRAVEL TIP:

• Don’t miss the Dome of Light, a glass artwork at Formosa Boulevard Station. It’s a popular tourist spot in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

2. BY KAOHSIUNG CITY BUS

Another way to get around in Kaohsiung is by public bus. I never tried this though because I’m more comfortable using the MRT & LRT. But since there are abundant English signs at every bus station, you can try this if needed. To get to your destination, just key in your destination in Google Maps and check the route. The bus fare in Kaohsiung is based on mileage zones, and regular fare starts at NTD 12 (₱23), cheaper than MRT and LRT minimum fare.

3. BY TAXI

If you want to conveniently get around Kaohsiung, you may also ride their iconic yellow taxis. Daytime taxi rates in Kaohsiung is NTD 85 (₱160) and additional NTD 20 (₱38) per kilometer. Waiting time charge is NTD 100 (₱188) per hour or approximately NTD 5 (₱9) per 3 minutes if below 5km per hour. Luggage surcharge is NTD 10 (₱19) if you need the trunk.

Taxi night time rates in Kaohsiung apply between 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. And it’s roughly 20% surcharge over day time rates.

You can hail a taxi on the road, but locals recommend using the established taxi companies when getting a taxi, such as Taiwan Taxi by calling 55688, choose English if needed. You may also use their app to book a cab. Another reputable taxi company is Yoxi Taxi with distinctive red doors. You may call 55178 to book a taxi. There’s also Line Taxi which can be booked through Line chatbot.

4. BY KAOHSIUNG SIGHTSEEING BUS

Like most major cities around the world, Kaohsiung has a Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus that offers unlimited rides on the same route. It’s a red double-deck bus with an open-top that offers a scenic way to explore this bustling city at your own pace. It has approximately 10 seats upstairs, which is an airconditioned area, roughly 28 seats at the open-top area, 5 seats ate the semi-open area, and priority seating downstairs. So, this is a good option if you’re traveling with seniors and kids. But make sure to check and follow the schedule listed below to save on waiting time. Multilingual audio guides are available (English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean) for NTD 100 (₱188).

How to get there and ride the Kaohsiung sightseeing bus:

• By MRT: Take the MRT Orange Line to City Council Station (04) and walk for about 10-11 minutes to Goubin Port.

• By Bus: Ride Route 60 and alight at the Bank of Taiwan stop. Then walk to Goubin Port for about 5 minutes.

KAOHSIUNG SIGHTSEEING BUS FARE

Here’s a list of Kaohsiung Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Fare.

The Kaohsiung Sightseeing Bus has two main routes:

1. SIZIHWAN ROUTE:

This is a 40 minute per loop that starts from Love Boat (Goubin Port), which primarily runs from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekends and public holidays.

The Sizihwan tour schedule: 11:00 AM,1:30 PM,3:30 PM,5:30 PM

The key stops included in the Sizihwan Route are:

• Pier 2 Art Center
• Sizihwan Bay
• Gushan Ferry Pier (gateway to Cijin Island)
• Love Boat (Goubin Port)

2. NEW BAY ROUTE:

This is a 50 minute per loop that also begins at Love Boat (Goubin Port) but runs on weekends and public holidays only.

The New Bay Route tour schedule is: 12:30 PM,2:30 PM,4:30 PM

The New Bay Route includes:

• Love Boat (Goubin Port)
• Kaohsiung Exhibition Center
• Central Park
• Liuhe Night Market
• Bridge of Vision

5. BY KAOHSIUNG LOVE RIVER BOAT

One of the most popular things to do in Kaohsiung is riding the Love River Boat. Passengers have 2 option: by Solar-Powered Love River Boat Cruise or a Romantic Gondola Ride.

1. SOLAR-POWERED LOVE RIVER BOAT CRUISE

Tourists can enjoy a scenic boat ride at night or a serene day time cruise along the Love River, which has undergone a dramatic revival. It’s an eco-friendly 25 minute guided cruise passing by major landmarks such as, Rose Church, 228 Peace Park, Constellation Pier, Love Pier, Glory Pier, Film Library, Kaohsiung History Museum, Ren’ai Park, Dagang Bridge, and 85 Sky Tower. The 42-seater double hull boats being used here are noise-free and pollution-free as it uses solar energy.  This is recommended for solo travelers, group travelers, and family and friends traveling together.

Here’s the Love River Boat Fare:

LOVE BOAT RIVER TICKET: BUY HERE OR PURCHASE HERE

Operating Hours: 3:00 PM – 9:40 PM

How to get there: Make your way to the nearest MRT Station – City Council (04) in the Orang Line. The Goubin Port is just about 10-11 minutes away from the station.

2. KAOHSIUNG ROMANTIC GONDOLA RIDE

Tourists visiting Kaohsiung can also experience a Venetian-inspired Gondola boat cruise along the Love River. Enjoy the scenic view at dusk and at night along neon-lit river while being serenaded by the gondolier. The intimacy of the gondola boat ride is ideal for couples wanting to soak in Kaohsiung’s cityscape.

 KAOHSIUNG GONDOLA RIDE TICKET: BUY HERE OR RESERVE HERE

6. BY PUBLIC BIKE

If you’re the adventurous type, an exciting way to explore Kaohsiung is by public bike called Youbike. It is widely used in Taiwan with approximately 1,351 stations in operation. Youbike rate starts at NTD 10 (₱19) per 30 minutes for the first 4 hours, rates increase to NTD 20 (₱37) thereafter.

To use the Youbike, you need to register through the website HERE or at the station using your Easycard or Ipass or credit card. Registration typically requires a local phone number, so if you have a Taiwan simcard, you may use that. You need to swipe your card at the bike dock to unlock, then swipe it again when you return the bike.

7. BY TAIWAN HIGH-SPEED TRAIN (THS)

If you’re going to another city or going on daytrip outside Kaohsiung, you may take a high-speed train. Book your Taiwan Highspeed Train Tickets in advance through the link below to secure a seat if you’re traveling between municipalities and cities. This will save you time.

• Taiwan Highspeed Train Tickets: BOOK HERE OR BUY HERE

Depending on your itinerary, if you are traveling around Taiwan and will be on the move for 3 consecutive days, getting a Taiwan Pass might save you a few bucks. Plan ahead to maximize your trip.

• Taiwan Pass (Unlimited Rides for 3 Consecutive Days): RESERVE HERE OR BUY HERE

 WHERE TO STAY IN KAOHSIUNG, TAIWAN

Since we’ve already discussed how to get from Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center, now let’s plan your stay in Kaohsiung.

Kaohsiung is the second biggest city in Taiwan, so it can be quite overwhelming to find a place to stay here due to a plethora of options. But if you are a first timer in Kaohsiung, best to stay in central Kaohsiung. Here are the best places for first timers in Kaohsiung that are recommended by locals.

My room at Tree House Hotel

During my first trip in Kaohsiung, I stayed at the Tree House Hotel located in Quinjin District. It is near MRT Cianjin Station, about 4 minutes by foot and Formosa Boulevard, about 11 minutes on foot. The train station – Gushan Station is also about 9 minutes from the hotel by car and Kaohsiung Airport is roughly 23 minutes by car. It is a pretty convenient place to stay at in Kaohsiung and I love their rooms! Check out the photos through the link below.

• Tree House Hotel
• Location: Quinjin District
• CHECK RATES HERE 

1.XINXING DISTRICT

Why stay in Xinxing District? Central Location & Lively Night Market. It’s often considered the best base for first time tourists in Kaohsiung due to its central location and lively night market such as Liuhe, shopping in Shinkuchan, and it’s pretty near the iconic Formosa Boulevard with its stunning Dome of Light. I stayed here during my first visit in Kaohsiung because it’s pretty easy to navigate since the 2 MRT lines cross here. Xinxing District is therefore perfect for solo or group travelers who are looking for a place to stay at the heart of everything.

• WUHOO HOUSE
• Location: Xinxing District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• BIG BEAR HOTEL
• Location: Xinxing District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• HOK HOUSE
• Location: Xinxing District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• RIVER INN
• Location: Xinxing District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

2.YANCHENG DISTRICT

Why Stay at Yancheng District? Budget-Friendly, Waterfront, and Arts. A hip and cool place to stay at in Kaohsiung is Yancheng District because it’s pretty relaxed and artsy, close to the Pier 2 Art Center. If you like a leisurely walk along the Love River at night or you want an easy access to Cijin Island for your day trip, stay here. There’s also a bunch of budget-friendly accommodations scattered here.

• WEN-PIN HOTEL PIER 2
• Location: Yancheng District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• LEO111 YANCHENG PIER 2
• Location: Yancheng District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• CITY SUITES – KAOHSIUNG PIER 2
• Location: Yancheng District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

3. QIANJIN DISTRICT

Why stay at Qianjin District? Quieter with Riverside Vibes. Quinjin District is located in central Kaohsiung so you have access to Central Park MRT Station that connects you to most places in Kaohsiung, so, the MRT is just walking distance to the following sites: Formosa Boulevard, Pier 2 Art Center, Love River, and Liuhe Night Market. It borders between Xinxing District and Yancheng District and is more of a mix a residential and commercial mix. Also, compared to the flasher Lingya or busy Xinxing, Qianjin is more relaxed and local but still offers riverside walking paths, small cafes, and some under-the-radar eateries and traditional local shops. This are is perfect for solo travelers and couples who are looking for a not so crowded area to stay with lots of boutique hotels and B&Bs that won’t break the bank and a charming riverside vibes.

• LEGEND HOTEL
• Location: Qianjin District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• HARBOR 1O HOTEL
• Location: Qianjin District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• SKYONE HOTEL
• Location: Qianjin District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

4. LINGYA DISTRICT

Why stay at Lingya District? Shopping and Night Life. Lingya District is a lively district in Kaohsiung that is best for luxury and modern travelers who wants to stay in upscale accommodations. It is known for its vibrant nightlife and high-end shopping. It is anchored by the Sanduo Shopping District and attractions such as the 85 Sky Tower.

• HUB HOTEL KAOHSIUNG
• Location: Lingya District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• JUST SLEEP HOTEL KAOHSIUNG ZHONGZHENG
• Location: Lingya District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• CENTURY HOTEL
• Location: Lingya, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

• FINE HOTEL
• Location: Lingya, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

5. SANMIN DISTRICT

Why stay at Sanmin District? Family-oriented and Budget-friendly.

Sanmin District is a great choice for families. It is well-connected via public transport and near the Kaohsiung Main Station. It has a more residential quiet charm and is close to attractions like the Dream Mall, National Science and Technology Museum, and the Ruifeng Night Market.

• WATERMARK HOTEL
• Location: Sanmin District, Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE

• Midtown Richardson – Kaohsiung Boai
• Location: Sanmin District
• RESERVE HERE

• J HOTEL KAOHSIUNG
• Location: Sanmin District Kaohsiung
• CHECK RATES HERE 

 IMPORTANT:

• Typical check-in time in Kaohsiung is around 3:00 PM, check-out is around 11:00 AM.
• Accommodations are usually cheaper on weekdays than on weekends and public holidays.
• Toiletries may or may not be included, best to bring your own toiletries or buy at a nearby convenience store.
• Hotels here have their own housekeeping schedule, they don’t clean the rooms daily.

KAOHSIUNG TOUR

KAOHSIUNG 1 DAY TOUR: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

KAOHSIUNG DAY TOUR: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

ALISHAN DAY TOUR FROM KAOHSIUNG: RESERVE HERE

KAOHSIUNG PRIVATE TOURS: CHECK RATES HERE

KENTING AND PINGTUNG ONE DAY TOUR: RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

KAOHSIUNG ZINNAN TEMPLE TOUR: RESERVE HERE

KAOHSIUNG MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS TICKET:  RESERVE HERE

SUZUKA CIRCUIT PARK TICKET: BUY HERE

DISCLOSURE:

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