We were kinda reluctant to leave Kenting for Kaohsiung the next day. The feeling is like leaving Mother Nature and heading back to the concrete jungle. Then again, we only have one day in Taiwan’s second largest city, which is sadly not enough time for me to wander around. I would love to return to southern Taiwan again in future for some extended wandering.

Our first stop in Kaohsiung was E-Da Outlet Mall which carries many famous international brands. Time for retail therapy and wow… the mall is huge! The whole place is so expansive that I got tired just by walking around. Is it worth it then? Not sure about the street prices but it’s definitely not as cheap compared to the outlet malls in Europe or US…

Eventually gave up and decided to look for food instead LOL. I came across this funny bakery that makes a crazily huge loaf of bread. Gosh, look at the size!! How can someone finish eating that?

It was already quite late when the rest are done with their only major shopping throughout the trip. So we left promptly to the hotel after our very late lunch. We heard people screaming while walking to the carpark and it was from those who were on this ride at the theme park…woohoo!!

Sizihwan sunset and dinner at Cijin Island

After check-in, we proceed to Sizihwan (西子灣), a popular sunset-viewing place in Kaohsiung. The best way to view the sunset is by climbing up the steps leading up to the building of Former British Consulate (打狗英国领事馆). However, let me warn you in advance that this place is seriously packed during sunset hours and have to squeeze your way through.

But the effort is truly worth it as the sunset here is truly beautiful…if only I had captured better shots, oh well.

Dinner’s next and we proceed to the nearby Gushan ferry terminal (鼓山渡轮站) to board the next ferry bound for Cijin Island (旗津岛). The longish island is less than 10-minute ride away and known for their seafood. A short walk from the pier brought us to the seafood street where we were spoiled for choices for dinner.

We finally settled for this restaurant and had a delicious seafood dinner here at Cijin Island.

Cijin Tianhou Temple (旗津天后宫), and its neat rows of red lanterns.

Night stroll along Love River

Before heading back to the hotel, I took a stroll along Love River (爱河). Love River splits the city area into two distinct sections and has atmospheric lights that illuminate the path along the river. It isn’t exactly the most exciting spot to visit but it does offer nice views of Kaohsiung skyline and a nice place for lazy night stroll especially for couples.

Crossing the bridge to another side of the river…

I decided to turn back to the hotel because the strong winter wind became unbearable and saw this interesting building nearby.

STAY: Fullon Hotel Kaohsiung review

The short stay at Fullon Hotel Kaohsiung (高雄福容大飯店) was very comfortable and our room came with a nice view of Love River. Clean large room, comfy bed plus a well-equipped bathroom. It’s easy to walk over to the Love River for a late night stroll like what I did and enjoyed. Can’t comment on the amenities though as I didn’t explore the surrounding of the hotel.

Maybe I will, during my next trip here?