When it comes to Kaohsiung, most people first think of urban attractions like Love River, Lotus Pond or the 85 Sky Tower, but this port city's mountain trails hold incredible stories — from Japanese-era military tunnels to Cold War-era air-raid shelters, from the unique terrain of coralline limestone to the ecological diversity of pristine tropical monsoon forests. Although Kaohsiung is not listed among Taiwan's eight national parks, it has Taiwan's first "urban national nature park" — Shoushan National Nature Park, where its value lies in its historical and cultural layers, from prehistoric sites to post-war military restriction zones, offering greater depth than purely natural landscapes.
Shoushan National Nature Park was established in 2011 as Taiwan's first national nature park located within an urban area, covering approximately 300 hectares at an elevation of about 300 meters. This area was once a military restriction zone during the martial law period, with long-term restrictions on public access, which is why its original natural terrain and rich wildlife resources have been preserved. The park contains military tunnels, bunkers, and watchtowers built during the Japanese era, which have now become important cultural assets见证Kaohsiung's military history.
Recommended Spot 1: Shoushan National Nature Park (Shoushan)
Shoushan is the most representative urban nature park in Kaohsiung and the best place to observe Taiwan's military heritage. The mountain features dozens of bunkers, tunnels, and watchtowers built during the Japanese era and the Kuomintang government period, with the most concentrated military facilities along the "North Shoushan" trail. In addition to hiking, you can see faded concrete bunkers, abandoned firing ports, and communication trenches dug by soldiers — these traces quietly tell of Kaohsiung's strategic position during the Cold War. Shoushan's limestone terrain is well-developed, with stalactite caves and coralline fossilsVisible everywhere. Taiwan macaques move freely through the forest, creating a unique urban wildlife landscape. From the summit, you can overlook Kaohsiung Port and the 85 Sky Tower, witnessing a cityscape where mountains, sea, and city coexist.
Recommended Spot 2: Banping Mountain Nature Park
Banping Mountain is adjacent to Shoushan, with an elevation of about 230 meters, named for its round shape resembling a half-folded screen. Its limestone geological structure is similar to Shoushan, but with less human interference, making the ecology more pristine. Along the mountain trails, you can see exposed coralline rock formations and stalactite landscapes — a natural classroom for understanding the geological changes in southwestern Taiwan. The Banping Mountain trail is steeper, suitable for experienced hikers, but the summit offers open views stretching far to Kaohsiung's city center and coastline. The Zuoying village at the foot of the mountain preserves some traditional architecture, creating a landscape where humanity and nature intertwine.
Recommended Spot 3: Cijin Scenic Area
Cijin is the most representative coastal spot in Kaohsiung, connected to the city center by ferry, with a one-way ticket costing only NT$30. It features kilometers of sandy beaches, sea-eroded礁岩 and well-preserved traditional settlements. Cijin's characteristic lies in its rich industrial history — once an important fishing port and coastal defense front line, it has now transformed into a scenic area that balances tourism and culture. Cijin Mazu Temple was built during the Qing Dynasty and serves as the spiritual center for local residents; its architecture blends Fujian and Japanese styles. Along the coastal trail, you can watch the sunset disappear into the Taiwan Strait, and at night, see the lights of Kaohsiung Port. Cijin Beach is open in summer with complete facilities, suitable for families to play in the water.
Recommended Spot 4: Chaishan (West Side of Shoushan Nature Park)
Chaishan is a popular hiking spot for Kaohsiung citizens, with rich ecology and only about a ten-minute drive from the city center. The "One Climb" route is most popular among beginners, reaching the summit in about 40 minutes one-way, with lush green shade along the way and the fragrance of tropical plants in the air. Chaishan's special feature is its tropical monsoon forest on coralline limestone, with complex and diverse vegetation. During the hike, you can often spot Taiwan macaques, squirrels, and various wild birds. There are several natural spring wells on the mountain with clear water, rumored to have health benefits. Chaishan is also an excellent spot for viewing Kaohsiung's night scenery; the summit platform overlooks the entire Kaohsiung Port night view.
Recommended Spot 5: Love River Bike Path
Love River is an ecological corridor in central Kaohsiung; the bike path along the river is approximately 20 kilometers long, making it the best way to understand Kaohsiung's urban development. The riverbanks are planted with abundant vegetation, and nighttime lights reflecting on the water create a romantic atmosphere. Cycling from the Music Museum, you can pass historical buildings and modern skyscrapers along the river, feeling Kaohsiung's transformation from an old port city to a modern metropolis. Waterfowl often rest on the river surface, making it a popular spot for bird watching in the metropolitan area.
Practical Information
Shoushan National Nature Park is located at the junction of Gushan District and Zuoying District in Kaohsiung. You can take the MRT to "Gushan Station" or "Zuoying Station," then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the park. The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, with no admission fee. Banping Mountain is located in Zuoying District; you can hike from the trail entrance accessible by foot from MRT "Zuoying Station." Cijin ferries run frequently, with one-way trips taking about 15 minutes, and round-trip tickets costing NT$60. Chaishan has multiple trail entrances, with the most commonly used being the "Chaishan Trail Entrance" on Zhonghua 1st Road. Love River bike path has rental points throughout; the cost is approximately NT$50-100 per hour.
Travel Tips
Shoushan and Chaishan are military restriction zones, and some areas still have military personnel stationed. Please observe relevant regulations and do not enter restricted areas. There are more mosquitoes in the mountain areas; bringing mosquito repellent is recommended. Cijin can be very hot in summer; please take sun-protection measures, and ferry services may require queuing on holidays. Kaohsiung's mountain trails have fewer water sources; please bring sufficient drinking water. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended, as some trails can be slippery.
