Life in Kaohsiung couldn't get better. The Tropic of Cancer runs straight through the middle of Taiwan bringing with it tropical and subtropical weather. It typically presents an average temperature of 22°C (71.6°F) all year round. There is no severe cold in winter. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you'll get to enjoy a lot of outdoor activity during the winter and it won't be too hot or cold.
There is delicious food everywhere in Kaohsiung. There are many outdoor markets, traditional markets and indoor dining restaurants. There is always fresh cheap food within reach. Cheap delicious food can be found in night markets ranging from NT$30 - NT$100 ($0.99 - $3.30USD). A nice dinner out with friends in an air-conditioned indoor restaurant ranges from NT$180 - NT$320 ($5.94 - $10.56 USD).
You can also find authentic southeast asian restaurants throughout the city.
If you're not adventurous when it comes to trying new food, don't be afraid. There are also numerous western restaurants all over the city.
Taiwanese Culture
The culture of Taiwan is a combination of Han Chinese, Japanese and Taiwanese aborigines cultures. Before the Qing Empire ceded Taiwan to the Japanese in 1895, the island consisted of mostly Han farmers and highland aborigines.
Religious Culture in Kaohsiung
Taiwan has three main religions; which are Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.
Did you know that Kaohsiung is home to the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan? It's called Fo Guang Shan and its located in Dashu District of Kaohsiung.
Art and Culture in Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung continues to Kaohsiung has a flourishing art scene. Once abandoned and forgotten warehouses in the port area have been transformed by local artists into the Pier-2 art district. Pier-2 has become the headquarters for artistic development in southern Taiwan.
The Kaohsiung City Bureau of Cultural Affairs took over the Pier-2 Art Center in 2006, starting a series of exhibitions and festivals such as the Kaohsiung Design Festival, the Chinese Character Exhibition, Kaohsiung International Steel & Iron Sculpture Festival, Kaohsiung International Container Art Festival, “Here comes the Kaohsiungers”, Mega Port Festival, The Wall Moon Theatre, Kaohsiung Youth Innovative Design Exhibition, Intertidal Region, Point & Wavy Ribbon Formation Performance Season etc. Many different building projects have been initiated in the port area. These projects include the Port and Cruise Service Center, the Kaohsiung Maritime Culture and Popular Music Center.
Kaohsiung has been investing a lot in its public transportation systems. The city has an MRT system and there are more lines coming soon. Did you know Kaohsiung has one of the most beautiful MRT stations in the world? Formosa Boulevard Station features one of the largest glass works in the world.
The city has also invested in a light rail system. Some of which is currently under construction. A station is opening soon near DYIBS' campus! The light rail system is quieter, more eco-friendly, adds convenience with its connections to the MRT system and will upgrade the entire city because all the old-fashioned railroad trains will go underground.
Buses are also a convenient way to commute. But if you're looking for a healthier and more eco-friendly way to commute, Kaohsiung has the answer. Did you know Taiwan was the first country in Asia to launch a bike sharing program? You can easily find a bike sharing station throughout the city.
Housing in Kaohsiung is very affordable and there are lots of new buildings being built at this moment. There are also quite a few Airbnb, hostels, hotels, and apartment rentals available.
Newer apartments are very nice. They usually have public facilities such as swimming pools, gyms and meeting rooms which are only available for residents.
Some luxury apartments even have their own karaoke and entertainment rooms.
Kaohsiung International Airport isn't big, but it does have a lot of flights to many other major cities internationally.
Fun in the Sun
There are so many outdoor activities to enjoy in Kaohsiung and the surrounding area. Kaohsiung is a coastal city and also has numerous public beaches. If you are looking for tropical white sand beaches, Kenting National Park is accessible by bus within a few short hours.
Mountains and Waterfalls
Situated in eastern Kaohsiung, Maolin District is just a short trip away. This indigenous district offers waterfalls, gorges, mountain streams, forests teeming with native wildlife and active hot springs. The area is also the home of the Rukai aboriginal people.
Whether you like hiking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, or swimming, there is always something to do in Kaohsiung in your free time.
Dah Yung International Bilingual School
No. 1, Darong St., Gushan Dist., Kaohsiung City 80449, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
07-5332450 dyibs@cc.dystcs.kh.edu.tw f 中文