Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
1. Shoushan National Nature Park
A beautiful park offering various hiking trails with scenic views of Kaohsiung City.
- Urban Hike: Combines city and nature in one hike.
- Variety of Trails: Offers trails for different skill levels.
- Educational Experience: Has an Arboretum with over 200 tree species.
2. Takoushan National Forest Recreation Area
A peaceful forest area with a variety of hiking trails and campsites.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil environment away from the city.
- Camping Opportunities: Offers facilities for overnight camping.
- Wildlife Viewing: Home to a variety of wildlife such as macaques and pangolins.
3. Kaohsiung Forestry Recreation Area
A large recreation area with multiple hiking trails through lush forests.
- Large Scale: Covering over 3,000 hectares of land.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
- Biodiversity: Home to over 1,000 species of flora and fauna.
4. Cijin Island Coastal Trail
A coastal trail offering beautiful ocean views and a chance to explore the island.
- Coastal Scenery: Provides stunning views of the sea and islands.
- Island Exploration: Allows visitors to discover the unique characteristics of Cijin Island.
- Cycling Option: Can be enjoyed by cyclists as well as hikers.
5. Qianlian River Trail
A riverside trail offering a peaceful walk and scenic views of the river.
- Riverside Scenery: Provides tranquil views of the Qianlian River.
- Urban Accessibility: Located in a bustling district, easily accessible.
- Local Culture: Passes through local communities, showcasing Taiwanese culture.
6. Lotus Pond Trail
A trail around a beautiful lotus pond with temples and pagodas.
- Scenic Beauty: Features a stunning lotus pond and temple architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Provides insight into Taiwanese Buddhist culture.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful and serene environment.
7. Xiaochengkeng Trail
A challenging trail leading to the beautiful Xiaochengkeng Gorge.
- Challenging Hike: Requires moderate to advanced hiking skills.
- Scenic Wonder: Leads to a breathtaking gorge with waterfalls.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded, offers a more authentic hiking experience.
8. Gaomei Wetlands Trail
A trail through a wetland area with unique wildlife and scenic views.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife.
- Seasonal Scenery: Offers different views depending on the season.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for photographing sunsets, birds, and the wetland landscape.
9. Yushan National Park Trails
A series of challenging trails in Taiwan's tallest mountain range.
- Mountain Adventure: Offers the chance to explore Taiwan's highest peaks.
- Challenging Trails: Requires advanced hiking skills and physical fitness.
- Natural Beauty: Showcases the stunning landscapes of Yushan National Park.
10. Tongpu Trail
A trail through a tea plantation offering beautiful views and the chance to learn about tea production.
- Scenic Tea Plantations: Provides panoramic views of rolling tea plantations.
- Educational Experience: Allows visitors to learn about Taiwanese tea production.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful and relaxing environment.
11. Shitiping National Scenic Area Trail
A coastal trail offering stunning ocean views and opportunities to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
- Coastal Scenery: Provides breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers chances to spot marine life such as dolphins and sea turtles.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing stunning coastal landscapes.
12. Fongyuan Mountain Trail
A challenging trail through a dense forest with scenic views of the city.
- Challenging Hike: Requires advanced hiking skills.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of Kaohsiung City.
- Biodiversity: Home to a variety of flora and fauna.
13. Pingshan Tribe Trail
A trail through an Aboriginal village offering insights into the tribe's culture.
- Cultural Experience: Provides insight into Taiwanese Aboriginal culture.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded, offers a more authentic hiking experience.
14. Kaohsiung Ecological Education Park Trail
A trail through an ecological park offering educational opportunities and wildlife viewing.
- Educational Experience: Provides information about local ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to observe various species of wildlife.
- Accessibility: Located in a convenient area, easily accessible.
15. Tengchan Temple Trail
A trail leading to a beautiful temple set in a scenic mountainous area.
- Scenic Beauty: Features stunning mountain landscapes.
- Cultural Experience: Provides insight into Taiwanese Buddhist culture and architecture.
- Challenging Hike: Requires moderate hiking skills.