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Go for BTS, stay for the art: 5 ways to explore Kaohsiung
BTS may be bringing ARMYs to Kaohsiung this November, but the Taiwanese port city has plenty more to offer beyond the concert stage.
As the K-pop icons gear up for their highly anticipated Arirang world tour stop at the Kaohsiung National Stadium from November 19 to 22, fans traveling to Kaohsiung have the perfect opportunity to turn their concert trip into a cultural getaway.
If you're heading to the city to see BTS, here are five ways to make the most of your visit.
1. Strike a pose at Dome of Light
Kaohsiung International Airport is conveniently connected to the city's MRT system, making it easy to get around.
But before heading to your hotel, make a quick detour to Formosa Boulevard Station to strike a pose at the Dome of Light, known as the world's largest public art installation made of colored glass.
2. Make the most of the night markets
Kaohsiung has two popular night markets: Liuhe and Ruifeng.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 p.m. until late, Ruifeng Night Market is home to the popular Angel Chicken stand, which serves the world-famous Taiwanese fried chicken. It's known for its extra-large, thick, and juicy chicken cutlets, available in flavors such as salt and pepper, chili pepper, and mala (spicy).
Ruifeng Night Market also offers the unmistakable stinky tofu, a wide variety of fried noodles, grilled seafood, scallion pancakes, Taiwanese sausages, and sweet potato balls.
Meanwhile, Liuhe Night Market is bigger than Ruifeng and is open every night.
At the entrance to the long stretch of food stalls, you'll be greeted by Zheng's Old Brand Papaya Milk, a 60-year-old establishment known for its popular papaya milk and seasonal fruit shakes.
The market also has a variety of stalls selling Taiwanese sausages wrapped in sticky rice, popcorn chicken, noodle soup, fried noodles, grilled seafood, and Taiwanese milk tea.
3. Spend an afternoon at Pier Art 2
Kaohsiung is known for its laid-back vibe, and one of the best ways to experience it is by spending an entire afternoon at the creative hub of Pier-2 Art Center.
The area features several art installations, such as the Yellow DNA Transformer Robot, Red Container Art, The Giant's Building Blocks, and colorful wall murals.
It's also a great spot to enjoy an epic view of the harbor and the Dagang Bridge, Asia's longest horizontally rotating bridge. The area is also home to picturesque cafés, restaurants, street art, and outlet stores of international brands.
Pier-2 Art Center is also accessible via the Kaohsiung Circular Light Rail. Hop on the train to see more of Kaohsiung's sights as it makes its way around the city.
4. Visit the oldest public retail market in Kaohsiung
Built in 1949, Kaohsiung's oldest public retail market remains open to this day, but it has since been transformed into an arts and cultural space.
Since its revitalization in 2022, the market has become a hub where local artisans sell their crafts, with niche coffee shops and eateries scattered throughout the area.
One sight not to miss is the handmade raw noodles hanging to dry at Lou Ji Noodles, tucked inside the market.
5. Sip coffee at a train-turned cafe
Located at Hamasen Railway Cultural Park, Horli Baking is a café housed inside a restored vintage train. From inside, you can enjoy views of passing trains and the lush green park surrounding it.
Horli Baking offers a wide array of freshly baked pastries, along with classic coffee drinks like Americano and latte, as well as other creative concoctions.
Tips before traveling
Kaohsiung has direct flights to and from Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, with a flight time of approximately two hours.
Similar to the Philippines' eTravel system, Taiwan has a mandatory arrival card that travelers must complete before entering the country.
While some establishments accept credit and debit cards, cash is still generally preferred in Kaohsiung, especially at night markets.
For transportation, the MRT, Kaohsiung Circular Light Rail, and buses are easily accessible, with routes and schedules available on Google Maps. Uber is also available for ride-hailing services.
For added convenience, you can get Taiwan's EasyCard, which can be used on public transportation and at convenience stores.
—CDC, GMA News
