First Time in Kaohsiung? Top Spots to Savor Art and Culture

Located in southern Taiwan, Kaohsiung is the other big city besides Taipei that travelers should take a trip to. Well-known for its warm-hearted citizens, harbor, seafood, pleasant temperature, and mountains, this city of over two million people will wow you with some unexpected spots. And although Kaohsiung is mainly famous for its harbor and seaside attractions, there are plenty of places for travelers to explore its art and culture.

What is Taiwanese-style hipsters?

Interestingly, when we would like to do some activities related to literature, art, music(especially indie), film such kinds, we are easily labelled as “hipsters(文青or文藝青年, literally youngsters fond of literature and art).” However, in Taiwan, the phrase “hipster” is quite common to use as a noun or adjective, and it is usually not meant as an insult; it just describes someone who enjoys a cultured lifestyle. Kaohsiungers are no exception to this case. So, where should you go to be a hipster in Kaohsiung? Let’s check them out.

Where to enjoy local Art and culture in Kaohsiung?

The Pier-2 Art Center(駁二)

Speaking of Cultural creativity, Kaohsiung people would definitely mention the Pier-2 Art Center. Standing nearby the Kaohsiung harbor, such art center features the transformation and revitalization of the old prosperous Yancheng district by taking advantage of warehouses and wasted containers, which are reused as spots for artists to show their works. In addition to welcoming talented artists to stay in, the Pier-2 Art Center are also in charge of holding several art-related festivals, such as Kaohsiung Design Festival, the Chinese Character Exhibition, Kaohsiung International Steel & Iron Sculpture Festival, Kaohsiung International Container Art Festival, Mega Port Festival, The Wall Moon Theatre, etc.

The old railway line, now a cycling and walking path, leads you past red-brick warehouses, innovative artworks, galleries and the harbor. Romantic atmosphere will bring you into a new air.

• Open hours (indoor warehouses and shops)：Mon.~Thu. 10am~6pm; Fri.~Sun. and public holidays 10am~8pm. The outdoor areas are free to wander.
• No.1, Dayong Rd., Yancheng Dist., Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
  

Read more:Everything You Need to Know Before Cycling Around Taiwan

Kaohsiung Film Archive(高雄市電影館)

Positioning itself as “Public Cinema,” this film archive adjacent to lovely Love River is a must-visit for travelers who would like to experience a hipster’s holiday. Not only does Kaohsiung Film Archive provide Kaohsiung citizens with a variety of film studies books and videos, but also it has promoted film industry in Kaohsiung for quite a long time; as a matter of fact, it organizes the Kaohsiung Film Festival and Southern Taiwan Film and Video Festival to enhance the development of local films. Moreover, visitors can enjoy films at ease during the open time. Feel free to come over and savor the character of Kaohsiung’s movies.

• Open hours：Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays; check the archive’s website for current hours and screenings
• No.10, Hesi Rd., Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan

Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts(高雄市立美術館)

Founded by the Kaohsiung City Government in 1994, this museum has become an essential center for showcasing fine artworks in southern Taiwan. Visitors can joyfully take a glimpse of delicate sculptures, paintings, calligraphy works, and art library that collects related videos and documents.

With the establishment of Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, this area has been viewed as a more well-designed place for residents to live in; wherever you walk, it’s easy to find an elegant café for a cup of coffee to round off your day.

• Open hours：Tue. ~ Sun. 9:30am~5:30pm (Closed on Mondays)
• No. 80, Meishuguan Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Read more: A trip to the mountains : 6 Wondrous Taiwan Hiking Trails

Want a local to show you Kaohsiung’s art scene? Browse our Taiwan tours or find a local guide.