Hotels in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is compact by Taiwanese standards and has plenty of well-priced hotels, so you can usually get more space than in Taipei. Stay near an MRT or light rail stop and most things are within easy reach. In November 2026, listings started from about US$28 a night, with weekends and holidays usually costing more.

Where to stay

Formosa Boulevard and Liuhe. The most convenient base, where the two MRT lines meet and Liuhe Night Market is a short walk away. It suits first visits, although it's more practical than pretty.

Yancheng and Hamasen. The old harbour area, close to Pier-2, the Gushan ferry and small cafés. It has a good local feel and lots of smaller hotels. Evenings are quieter, but it's the best choice if the waterfront is your priority.

Love River and Qianjin. Riverside hotels with pleasant evening walks, in between the harbour and Formosa Boulevard. Ask for a river-facing room, and check which MRT or light rail stop is closest.

Zuoying. Handy for high-speed trains and Lotus Pond, with big malls. It's useful for a night before an early train, but farther from the harbour and the older parts of town.

Sanduo and Cianjhen. A shopping district with department stores and the 85 Sky Tower, and quick MRT access to the airport. It has many business hotels and is often good value.

How to choose

First trip, short stay. Choose Formosa Boulevard or Yancheng, as they cover most sights without much travel.

Arriving by plane. The airport is on the Red Line, so hotels along it are the easiest with luggage. Nothing is far, and the ride to Formosa Boulevard takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Continuing south to Kenting. Buses leave from around Zuoying and the main station, so it makes sense to stay near one of those.

What to expect

Value. Rooms are often bigger than in Taipei at a similar price, and many include breakfast. Check whether it's a local-style or Western-style buffet.

Older hotels. Some older buildings have dated decor or damp smells, so recent guest reviews are worth reading.

Heat. From about May to September, air conditioning and a short walk to the MRT matter a lot. Rooms with blackout curtains also help in the bright southern sun.

When to book. Book early for Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival events and big concerts at the Kaohsiung Arena, which can push prices up across the city.