Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Taipei is the cultural and economic center of Taiwan. Kaohsiung is its largest port town and also is home to numerous institutions of higher learning. This city is much less crowded and frenetic than Taipei, though there is less to see and do. However, the area near the sea front is home to great restaurants and shopping. Many students who want to learn Mandarin Chinese head to Kaohsiung to take advantage of its numerous and relatively cheap courses.

In the past, Kaohsiung was an industrial city, but it has since developed into a modern metropolis, using its status as Taiwan’s major port to develop into its current incarnation.

Kaohsiung is a great place to ride a bicycle. Bicycles can be rented, and, because of the relatively light traffic (compared to Taipei), traveling via bike is possible. Some of the area outside the city center offer more scenic rides through hills and along the coastline. The grounds of the city’s various Universities are also prime spots for a leisurely pedal.

The Chijin District is the seafood capital of Taiwan. Reachable via ferry, this island is home to many seafood restaurants. Many of these places allow you to pick your “meal” while it is still swimming in a display tank. Some of the smaller eateries are equally good. The bustling atmosphere around The Chijin District is authentically local, and it is a great experience just to wander around. As it is a popular local destination, it gets crowded on the weekends, although this only adds to the atmosphere (as long as you are not in a hurry or claustrophobic). Liouho Night Market is another place to shop, eat, or sample the local atmosphere. While not quite the spectacle of Chijin, it is worth a visit.

Ai River is a scenic spot to relax. There are some good cafes and restaurants along the river that offer a decent view of the waterway.

Wenzao College Of Languages is a place to go if you want to learn a language. Though the focus is on Mandarin, other languages are also taught. Foreigners who have become fluent in Mandarin after attending Wenzao, swear by the methods used there. Though there are cheaper options throughout town, serious students usually find Wenzao to be the best option. There are also options to fund a semester of study by teaching English as a second language at many of the local schools or language centers.

Kaohsiung might not have the glitz and energy of Taipei, but it does offer a laid back atmosphere, accessible local culture, and opportunities to learn in a serious environment.