Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a city that boasts an impressive blend of traditional and modern architectural styles. Visitors can explore a variety of structures that reflect the rich cultural history and contemporary advancements of the region.
What are the must-see architectural landmarks in Kaohsiung? From historic forts to cutting-edge public buildings, Kaohsiung offers a diverse range of sites that are sure to captivate architecture enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
1. 85 Sky Tower
85 Sky Tower, also known as the Tuntex Sky Tower, is located in Lingya District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
The skyscraper stands at an impressive height of 347.5 meters (1,140 feet) and includes an antenna that extends the height to 378 meters (1,240 feet).
Construction of the 85-story building began in 1994 and was completed in 1997. It was the tallest building in Taiwan until the completion of Taipei 101 in 2004.
The building was designed by the architect C.Y. Lee, who also designed Taipei 101. It serves multiple purposes, including office space, a department store, and hotel rooms.
The 85 Sky Tower is a symbol of Kaohsiung’s growth and modern architecture. For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
2. Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
Standing tall at Lotus Lake in Zuoying District, Kaohsiung, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are a prime example of modern Taoist architecture.
These two pagodas, completed in 1976, are seven stories high and are notable for their unique design.
Visitors enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth. This symbolizes turning bad luck into good fortune.
The vivid imagery and traditional motifs make these pagodas iconic landmarks in Taiwan.
Inside, the walls are decorated with paintings depicting Chinese legends and historical figures. The views from the top floors offer a panoramic scene of Lotus Lake and the surrounding area.
Open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, the pagodas are a must-see for anyone visiting Kaohsiung.
3. Dome of Light
The Dome of Light in Kaohsiung is a captivating piece of art situated in the Formosa Boulevard metro station.
Designed by Narcissus Quagliata, this dome features 4,500 glass panels. It spans 30 meters in diameter.
The glass dome tells the history of the universe through colorful, illuminated panels. Visitors can see themed light shows that run several times a day.
It’s not only a functional part of the metro system but also a mesmerizing spectacle.
This vibrant installation is regarded as the largest glass work of its kind. It turns the bustling metro station into an art gallery.
The Dome of Light is both an artistic and architectural gem. It attracts tourists and locals alike. For those interested in modern art and architecture, it’s a must-see in Kaohsiung. More details can be found on Atlas Obscura.
4. Kaohsiung Exhibition Center
The Kaohsiung Exhibition Center is a standout architectural gem in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Designed by Cox Architecture, this building merges exhibition and convention spaces into a single, flexible facility.
The construction cost amounted to $200 million, covering a gross floor area of 60,000 square meters. This space allows it to host diverse events seamlessly.
Opened in 2014, the center’s strategic design helps it accommodate various functions. Its hybrid nature enables it to offer adaptable solutions for different types of exhibitions and conventions.
5. Kaohsiung Main Public Library
Kaohsiung Main Public Library is a striking landmark located in the Asia New Bay Area of Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
The building features a modern, eco-friendly design with a beautiful glass exterior and a column-suspended structure.
Inside, the library offers various facilities, including electronic reading rooms, newspaper rooms, and multimedia rooms. The transparent spatial design creates a bright and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
A notable feature is the “tree in a library and library in a tree” concept, blending nature with architecture. Its unique design makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. For more details, visit the Kaohsiung Main Public Library.
6. National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying)
The National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, also known as Weiwuying, is a marvel of modern architecture.
Designed by Dutch architects Mecanoo, the building is inspired by the flowing shapes of banyan trees. The structure integrates seamlessly with its environment, creating both a striking and functional space.
Weiwuying spans across a 35-acre site and incorporates multiple performance halls under its undulating roof.
It offers a unique blend of landscape and architecture, serving as a cultural hub for the city. Located in Fengshan District, it stands out as one of the key cultural projects in Taiwan.
The design caters to various art forms, including theater, music, and dance, supporting both local and international artists. This commitment to arts and culture makes Weiwuying an essential visit for any architecture enthusiast visiting Kaohsiung.
7. The Pier-2 Art Center
The Pier-2 Art Center in Kaohsiung stands as a prime example of urban renewal. It transforms old warehouses into a bustling arts district, showcasing creativity and innovation.
This art hub features a mix of galleries, outdoor sculptures, and street art. Visitors can explore hundreds of shops, cafes, and artist studios that give the area its unique charm.
Once focused on industrial activity, Pier-2 now highlights Kaohsiung’s artistic side. This shift adds a vibrant, cultural atmosphere to the city’s waterfront. The area now includes piers 1 through 10, expanding its footprint along the harbor.
For those interested in visual arts, murals and quirky sculptures are scattered throughout the district. These works add color and intrigue to the repurposed docks.
Cyclists can enjoy the western railway line, now a popular bike trail, leading them through various installations and exhibits.
8. Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a major cultural and religious landmark in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
It was previously known as the Buddha Memorial Center and is part of the Fo Guang Shan monastic order.
The museum houses one of Sakyamuni Buddha’s tooth relics, making it a significant site for Buddhists worldwide. The relic was gifted to the founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1998.
The complex features the 108-meter Big Buddha, the largest in Taiwan, which is a highlight for visitors.
The museum promotes Buddhism through arts and movies, aiming to blend humanistic values with international appeal.
The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum attracts over 10 million visitors annually, making it one of Taiwan’s top tourism spots. For more details, visit their official website.
9. Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Republic of China.
It is located in Kaohsiung City. The cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and is an essential landmark in Taiwan.
The building features a blend of European Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles, making it visually striking. The interior of the Basilica is designed in octagons, enhancing its unique appeal.
The cathedral was ranked number one in the Taiwanese 100 Scenic Spot items of Architecture in 2001. It stands out among the more modern buildings surrounding the harbor and serves as a spiritual center for many locals and visitors.
For more information, visit the Holy Rosary Cathedral, Kaohsiung or Kaohsiung Travel website.
10. Cijin Shell Museum
The Cijin Shell Museum, located on Cijin Island, is a must-visit for anyone interested in marine life and architecture.
Open since October 2011, the museum is housed in a distinct white building designed to match its seaside surroundings.
Visitors can find a wide array of shells from all over the world, making it educational and visually appealing. It’s also a great place for families, as it combines learning with fun activities.
The museum charges a modest admission fee of 30 NTD and operates from 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Sunday.
Accessibility is easy, with frequent ferry services from Kaohsiung City to Cijin Island, taking less than 10 minutes each way. For more information, you can visit their profile on Tripadvisor at Cijin Shell Museum.
Architectural Significance of Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung’s architecture features a blend of historical influences and modern innovations, showcasing the city’s transformation over time. Both historical landmarks and contemporary structures contribute to its unique skyline.
Historical Development
Kaohsiung’s architectural journey began with its historical sites.
One notable example is Cihou Fort, constructed during the Qing Dynasty, which was built to protect Kaohsiung Harbor. This fort not only has a rich history but also offers panoramic views of the harbor, emphasizing its strategic importance.
During the Japanese rule from 1895 to 1945, a distinct architectural style emerged.
Buildings like the former Takao Railway Station reveal a mix of Japanese techniques and Western Art Deco elements. These structures stand as symbols of the cultural blend that shaped modern Kaohsiung.
Traditional Taiwanese architecture also features prominently, with temples and other buildings showcasing the craftsmanship of earlier generations. The fusion of these styles creates a multi-layered architectural narrative that is unique to Kaohsiung.
Modern Architectural Trends
In recent years, Kaohsiung has seen a boom in modern architecture.
The 85 Sky Tower is a prime example of this trend. Standing 85 stories tall, it provides breathtaking views from its observation deck on the 74th floor, and its nighttime projections add a dynamic element to the skyline.
Another highlight is the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, which covers a massive area and is set in a subtropical park.
This center not only serves as a cultural hub but also demonstrates innovative design with its sweeping structure and extensive use of space.
Modern buildings here often incorporate sustainable and green design principles.
These innovations reflect the city’s commitment to blending aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility, marking a significant step forward in urban development.
Noteworthy Architectural Styles
Kaohsiung, Taiwan is home to a diverse blend of architectural styles. These range from cutting-edge futuristic designs to buildings rooted in traditional influences.
Futuristic Designs
Kaohsiung is notable for its modern and innovative structures.
The National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts stands out with its sweeping, organic lines inspired by banyan trees.
This building merges art and nature in a way that highlights both functionality and aesthetic beauty.
Central Park Station is another example of forward-thinking design.
With its giant, unique outdoor decorations and stunning night-time lighting effects, it plays a significant role in the city’s landscape. The entrance design is practical but also visually striking, making everyday commuting an architectural experience.
Traditional Influences
Traditional architecture in Kaohsiung reflects the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. A prime example is Cihou Fort, a historic hilltop fort built in the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty.
Its strategic location offers panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor.
The Former British Consulate at Takao is another landmark. Built in a colonial style with white walls, red tiles, and verandas, it showcases architectural elements from Taiwan’s colonial past.
This mix of local and foreign styles is also evident in buildings from the Japanese rule era, such as the former Takao Railway Station, blending Japanese techniques with Western Art Deco elements.