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Takao - Travel destination image
Takao - Travel destination image
Takao - Travel destination image

Takao

Taiwan, Asia

Takao is a STATE in Taiwan, Asia.

Takao, the historic name for the vibrant port city of Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan, blends maritime heritage with modern flair. The Love River winds past neon-lit night markets and hip cafes, while the transformed Pier-2 Art Center hums with creativity in old warehouses. A short ferry ride lands you on Cijin Island, where black-sand beaches, fresh seafood stalls, and a historic lighthouse reward explorers. At dusk, the Liuhe Night Market sizzles with oyster omelets and papaya milk, while the towering 85 Sky Tower frames the skyline. Day trips to Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum and tranquil Lotus Pond reveal deep spiritual roots. Locals are famously warm, and the MRT connects it all. Whether you’re cycling along the waterfront, tasting World Championship-winning coffee, or soaking in hot springs, Takao surprises with its easy rhythm and rich culture. It’s a genuine, less-touristed window into Taiwan’s south—perfect for foodies, art lovers, and families seeking a relaxed urban escape.

Best time to visit Takao

The best time is October to early December and March to May, when temperatures are pleasant (20–28°C) and rain is minimal. Avoid the hot, humid summer months (June–September), which bring typhoon risks and tropical downpours. Winter (January–February) is cooler but comfortable, though Chinese New Year can mean sold-out hotels and inflated prices. April’s spring flowers and October’s crisp skies are ideal for outdoor exploration.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 24-31°C, less rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Low-Moderate
Prices
Medium

Ideal balance: still warm, drier, blue skies.

Know before you go

Getting there

KHH

Kaohsiung International Airport

International

8 km away

TNN

Tainan Airport

Domestic

45 km away

TPE

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

International

300 km away

Getting around

"Kaohsiung’s MRT system is clean, efficient, and covers major attractions. A single journey costs ~$1; get an iPASS card for discounts. City buses and the Light Rail (LRT) connect gaps; the LRT is a scenic ride along the harbor. Taxis are plentiful and metered, with Uber available. Cycling is popular: YouBike stations are everywhere, with cheap rentals. Scooter rental requires an IDP with a motorcycle endorsement. For day trips, trains and express buses to Tainan or Kenting are easy. Most signage is in English and Chinese."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

40 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in urban areas, hotels, and cafes

Local SIM

Local tourist SIM available at Kaohsiung Airport from NT$300 (~$10)

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Taiwan is consistently ranked among the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is rare.

Night safety

8/10

Taiwan is consistently ranked among the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Kaohsiung is extremely safe, with low violent crime. Petty theft like pickpocketing is rare but possible in crowded night markets; keep bags zipped. Scams targeting tourists are uncommon. Be cautious of traffic: scooters and cars can be chaotic, especially at intersections. Exercise normal caution late at night in isolated areas. Taiwan has strict drug laws—possession of even small amounts carries severe penalties. Emergency response is efficient."
Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"Taiwan has excellent healthcare. No routine vaccines are required, but ensure Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap) are up to date. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or boiled water. Mosquitoes can be present year-round, so use repellent to avoid dengue fever. Medical facilities in Kaohsiung are modern and English-speaking doctors are available in major hospitals. Carry travel insurance and pack a basic first-aid kit, including any prescription medications (import strong painkillers carefully). Sun protection is essential even in winter."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting temples—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional indoor spaces. Greeting with a nod or a slight bow is polite; handshakes are also common. It’s customary to wait for elders to start eating before you begin. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral rites. Loud public conversations are less common than in some cultures. Tipping is not expected anywhere. Show respect for local religious practices, and always ask before photographing people. In night markets, a smile and a simple ‘xièxie’ (thank you) go a long way."
Mandarin ChineseTaiwanese HokkienHakkaFormosan languages

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$30-60 | budget hotels range $30-60/night

Local transport

$1 | MRT or bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Taiwan is very affordable; a solo traveler can live well on $40-50/day excluding accommodation.

Timezone

Asia/Taipei
Local time 00:32

More facts

Population

2,700,000

ISO code

TW-02

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Feng-san, Feng-shan, Feng-shan-chieh, Feng-šan, Fengsanas, Fengshan, Fengšanas, Fongshan, Fongshan District, Fung-san-khi, Fung-sân-khî, Hōng-soaⁿ-khu, Kao-hsiung, Kao-hsiung-hsien, Phuong Son, Phượng Sơn, feng shan, feng shan qu, peongsan gu, 鳳山, 鳳山区, 鳳山區, 펑산 구, 舊打狗驛故事館, Takao Railway Museum, 高雄鉄道博物館, 舊打狗驛

Major HubBeachHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingNight MarketArt District