Kaohsiung and Beyond: A 5-Day Adventure in Southern Taiwan Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Taiwan. Afterward, enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the monastery's dining hall.

Explore the natural beauty of Kaohsiung at the Shoushan Love Observatory, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Then, visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where you can walk through the dragon's mouth and exit through the tiger's mouth for good luck.

For dinner, indulge in a gourmet pizza experience at Gusto Pizza, known for its authentic Italian flavors. Afterward, take a romantic evening stroll along the Cijin Island, a narrow island known for its seafood restaurants and stunning sunsets.

Take a day trip to Tainan, the cultural capital of Taiwan. Start your day with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at Chun Shui Tang Tea House, known for its bubble tea. Then, visit the Chihkan Tower, a historic landmark that offers insights into Taiwan's colonial past.

For lunch, savor the famous Tainan danzai noodles at Din Tai Fung, a local favorite. Afterward, explore the Anping Old Fort, a well-preserved fortress that played a significant role in Taiwan's history.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Garden Night Market, one of the oldest night markets in Tainan, and sample a variety of local snacks. End your day with a visit to the Tainan Confucius Temple, a serene place of worship that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a day trip to Hualien, a scenic coastal city known for its natural beauty. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ming Yue Tang Bao before heading to the Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan's most stunning natural wonders.

Enjoy a leisurely hike through the gorge and marvel at the towering marble cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Afterward, visit the Swallow Grotto, a natural rock formation that is home to a large population of swallows.

For dinner, savor the local flavors of Hualien at The River Grill, known for its fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the Qixingtan Beach, a beautiful pebble beach where you can enjoy the sound of the waves and the cool sea breeze.

Take a day trip to Kenting National Park, a tropical paradise located at the southern tip of Taiwan. Start your day with a scenic drive through the park and enjoy the lush greenery and stunning coastal views.

Visit the Eluanbi Lighthouse, Taiwan's southernmost point, and take in the panoramic views of the ocean. Then, relax on the white sandy beaches of White Sand Bay and take a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters.

For dinner, enjoy a beachfront barbecue at The River Grill, where you can savor grilled seafood and meats while watching the sunset. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Kenting Night Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local street foods.