Cijin

Feel the breeze across your face as you take in a magnificent view of the ocean that surrounds Cijin Island in Kaohsiung. If you want to travel like a local, rent a scooter or a bike around National Sun Yat-sen University (國立中山大學) before heading to the port for a lovely ferry ride to Cijin on the other side. Here, you will be treated to cultural attractions, historic sites, a leisurely stroll along the beach, and even the freshest catches of the day. These seafood restaurants serve catches straight from the harbor, and you get to see what you eat before it is freshly prepared on-site.

In 1863, the Takao (Kaohsiung) Harbor was officially opened as a treaty port, and merchant ships started to pour in. However, due to the construction work of the second port of Kaohsiung Harbor in 1967, Cijin was separated from the mainland of Kaohsiung and became an independent island. This brought about a negative impact to the lives of local residents. A 1.67-kilometer-long undersea tunnel was then built up, allowing people to travel to and from the mainland. It is the one and only underwater tunnel in Taiwan.

This sandbar peninsula was formed hundreds of years ago, but the very first temple was not established here until 1673. Today, the incense-choked Mazu Temple is a center of faith among Cijin locals where they find support and sustenance. After your visit to the iconic Mazu Temple, don’t rush back to the harbor. Why not have some yummy goodies at the local night market such as the lamb hot pot to fight off colds or for pure enjoyment?

Notice:

A single-trip ferry ticket costs TWD25 for an adult, TWD20 for a student, TWD25 for a scooter and TWD10 for a bicycle.