Welcome to Day 3 of our Taiwanese adventure, where we transition from the bustling streets of Taipei to the vibrant city of Kaohsiung! Known for its rich culture and artistic flair, Kaohsiung is a must-visit destination that often flies under the radar for travelers. Today, we’ll explore the Pier-2 Art Center, a former warehouse district turned creative hub, showcasing the intersection of art, design, and community.
This post will not only guide you through the must-see attractions of this colorful space but also inspire you to discover how art can breathe new life into urban landscapes and enhance your travel experiences. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the artworks and the city’s dynamic transformation that make Kaohsiung a gem worth exploring!
Travel to Kaohsiung by High Speed Rail
Day 3 started bright and early with a quick Mac breakfast before we checked out of our hotel in Taipei, all before 10 a.m. Next, we zipped over to Taipei Main Station to catch the 10:31 a.m. HSR train to Zuoying, the gateway to Kaohsiung. As you can see, the platform was not so spacious therefore station looks pretty packed with people queuing for the train.
The ride was smooth and fast, clocking in at just under two hours.
Upon arrival at Zuoying, we jumped on a direct train down to Kaohsiung Main Station, where our next base, the Kindness Hotel, was located. Although it looked a bit older compared to our Taipei digs, it was still spacious and comfy—perfect for our stay over the next few days.
Pier 2 Art Center, KW2 Warehouse and Great Harbour Bridge
After settling into our hotel, we made our way to Pier-2 Art Center. Getting there was a breeze—just a quick hop on the MRT Red Line to Formosa Boulevard, then a switch to the Orange Line for Yanchengpu Station. A short five-minute stroll later, we were at Pier-2.
We picked up our tickets and started exploring the exhibitions. One particularly fascinating exhibit detailed the history of the pier itself.
A heads-up though, the weather in Kaohsiung felt way hotter than in Taipei, which was a bit of a challenge. Despite the heat, we managed to enjoy all three exhibitions before heading over to the KW2 warehouse. This place was a treasure trove of creative and interesting finds, perfect for some unique souvenirs.
Later, we strolled towards the Great Harbor Bridge.
We timed our dinner just right, finding a riverside restaurant that offered a front-row seat to watch the bridge in action.
It’s worth noting that the bridge moves at specific times each day, making for a spectacular dining backdrop.
Liuhe Night Market
Before heading back to the hotel to call it a day, we decided to check out Liuhe Night Market. It was super convenient since we were already taking the MRT back to Formosa Boulevard Station. The market is just a short stroll, less than 10 minutes from the station.
It’s quite cozy & quieter compared to the massive Shilin Night Market we explored on Day 2, but it has its own charm with lots of unique eats to try.
