When I discussed my travel plans with a friend who lives in Nanzih, his first reaction was, “What’s there to do in Nanzih?” After visiting, I found that Nanzih is a comfortable and laid-back town. It boasts wetlands where you can breathe fresh air, historic houses that evoke memories of the past, and vibrant evening and night markets full of delicious food and great finds. Honestly, what could be more important than living well?
Contents
◦ Kaohsiung Travel Guide
01｜Transportation in Kaohsiung
🚄 Taiwan High Speed Rail
🚄 Kaohsiung Metro (MRT) Unlimited Travel Pass
🛵 Kaohsiung Scooter Rental - Zuoying High Speed Rail Station Pickup
🛵 Kaohsiung Scooter Rental｜Kaohsiung Railway Station Pickup
02｜Popular Attractions in Kaohsiung
🎫 Kaohsiung Fun Pass
🎫 E-DA Theme Park Ticket
🎫 Suzuka Circuit Park Ticket in Kaohsiung
🎫 Shoushan Zoo Tickets
🎫 Hamasen Museum of Taiwan Railway Ticket in Kaohsiung
🎫 British Consulate in Kaohsiung: Tickets and Discount Packages
🎫 National Science And Technology Museum Ticket in Kaohsiung
03｜Things To Do in Kaohsiung
🚢 Kaohsiung Love River Love Boat Ticket & Cruise Guide
🚣🏻 Water skiing experience at Lotus Lake Water Skiing Theme Park
♨️ Zheng Qing Song Korean Sauna in Kaohsiung
◦ The History of Nanzih
In the past, this area was called "Nanzikeng." Its name came from the low-lying terrain near the streams and the abundance of nanmu (Phoebe zhennan) trees, with locals referring to it as “Lâm-á-kheⁿ” in Taiwanese. The history of Nanzih dates back to the 17th century during the Ming Zheng period, when settlers from Quanzhou and Zhangzhou arrived to cultivate the land and gradually formed a community. By the Guangxu era, the name “Nanzikeng” was already documented in the Fengshan County Gazetteer. In 1924, with the administrative reorganization of Kaohsiung Prefecture and the establishment of Kaohsiung City, Nanzih’s boundaries were redrawn and integrated into the larger urban planning.
Post-war Nanzih thrived with the establishment of a refinery and industrial processing zones, making it one of the region's industrial hubs. The arrival of several universities also brought a youthful energy to the local business districts, adding vitality to the area.
◦ Attractions in Nanzih
01｜Hongnan New Village
Located next to the World Games MRT Station, Hongnan New Village traces its history back to the Japanese colonial era. Originally built as housing for staff of the Japanese Navy's Sixth Fuel Depot, it was repurposed as employee residences for CPC Corporation's Kaohsiung Refinery after the war. In 2013, Hongnan New Village was designated as a cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore its unique history. The village’s iconic blue wooden house was once a popular Instagram hotspot, and although that particular structure is no longer standing, the area still features a variety of colorful and character-filled homes. Bathed in sunlight, each house seems to tell its own story.
What surprised me most was the village’s well-planned living facilities. It boasted amenities like a laundry station, restaurants, a general store, a gymnasium, and even a swimming pool. This setup speaks volumes about the scale and thoughtfulness of the housing community during its prime.
Hongnan New Village Hongyi 1st Rd., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
02｜Nanzi Bunker Park
Nanzi Bunker Park was once a training ground for the Marine Corps. In 2005, it was redesigned and transformed into a recreational area, incorporating green corridors. By 2020, the park was further upgraded with the addition of a children’s playground, making it a favorite leisure spot for local residents.
I was drawn to the square by the sound of singing. There, two men with microphones were passionately belting out nostalgic classics, creating an atmosphere that was irresistibly joyful.
Nanzi Bunker Park No. 746, Jiachang Rd., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
03｜Youchang Marshal Temple
The origins of Youchang Marshal Temple can be traced back to the Ming Zheng period. Legend has it that during Zheng Chenggong’s (Koxinga’s) campaign in Taiwan, he sought to stabilize his troops' morale by asking his strategist, Liu Guoxuan, to personally select a site for the temple’s construction. Over 400 years and countless expansions later, this temple has become an integral part of local life, serving as a timeless spiritual sanctuary for the community. The temple’s main deity, Marshal Youchang, is actually a collective figure representing seven marshals: Liu, Chen, Xie, Chang, Tang, another Chen, and Zhang. Under the guidance of Liu, the Great Marshal, these deities are believed to watch over Youchang, offering protection and dispelling misfortune.
During the Japanese colonial period, when life was particularly difficult, many people could not afford the costs associated with traditional festivals and rituals. It is said that the temple’s deities issued a divine proclamation: the community should abolish the Ghost Festival (Zhongyuan Pudu) and simplify ancestral worship practices by holding only two major rituals each year—on Lunar New Year’s Eve and the 15th day of the sixth lunar month. This simplification also extended to abolishing the ceremonial “Zuoya” feasts, easing the financial burdens of the villagers. As a result, ancestral worship returned to its essence: a genuine and heartfelt expression of reverence rather than an ostentatious display.
Youchang Marshal Temple Opening Hours: 0430-2200 No. 1, Youchang 1st Ln., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
04｜Yang Family Historical Residence
The Yang Family Historical Residence, has long been a topic of admiration among local residents. Not only did they rise to prominence through fish farming, but the family also produced five scholars, both civil and military, making them a source of pride for the community. The family’s history dates back to the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, when Yang Wen journeyed alone from Fujian to Taiwan in search of a better life. Initially, he worked as a laborer, earning just enough to survive. Later, he built a humble thatched house in Youchang, creating a place to call home. Despite the harsh conditions, this resilient pioneer laid roots in Youchang and raised five sons. Over generations, the family’s reputation grew, cementing their place in local history.
The Yang Family Historical Residence, now over 130 years old, is still inhabited by descendants of the Yang family. During my visit, I caught a glimpse of the interior and noticed an elderly man quietly lost in thought. This century-old house, much like the silent elder within it, stands as a steadfast guardian of Youchang’s rich historical memory.
Yang Family Historical Residence No. 41, Ln. 223, Youchang St., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
05｜Yuanzhonggang Wetland Park
Why is it called a "hidden gem"? Because it’s not the easiest place to find. If you rely on Google Maps for directions, you might be led to the gates of a military zone—strictly off-limits. I managed to get there by taking a small path next to a factory, which eventually brought me to the park.
The currently accessible western section of the wetland primarily consists of aquaculture ponds and mangroves. The mangroves are the heart of the ecosystem here, serving as a vital foundation for the wetland. They provide a sanctuary for fiddler crabs, land crabs, and migratory birds, making this area a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Yuanzhonggang Wetland Park Opening Hours: 0900-1200、1300-1700, closed on Monday. South Bank of the Dike Path, Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
06｜Deming Dusk Market
For many office workers, the dusk market on Deming Road is the perfect stop offering a much-needed recharge. The market is thoughtfully designed, with a spacious parking lot that allows shoppers to buy as much as they like without worrying about parking.
When I visit the market, I always enjoy exploring the ready-to-eat food section. The side dishes and fried chicken I took home that day were both affordable and delicious. I couldn't help but be impressed once again by the charm of the dusk market!
Deming Dusk Market Opening Hours: 1430-1930 No. 977, Demin Rd., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
◦ Restaurants and Snacks in Nanzih
01｜Vicky Foods-Burritos and Indian Cuisine
When I arrived at Vicky Foods-Burritos and Indian Cuisine, according to Google Maps, I initially couldn't find the place. It wasn't until I looked up that I realized the sign had been damaged by a typhoon. Eventually, I found it thanks to the line of customers and the chef rolling dough right outside the door.
I ordered the beef wrap that my friend highly recommended. As soon as I took a bite, I could immediately taste the elasticity and chewiness of the dough, with a warm, malty flavor that was incredibly delicious. The filling was rich and well-balanced, with the combination of fresh lettuce and corn adding a sweet layer of flavor. This perfectly complemented the beef, making it less greasy.
Vicky Foods-Burritos and Indian Cuisine Opening Hours: 1030-1300、1700-1900, closed on Sunday and Monday. No. 801, Houchang Rd., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
02｜Tian Cao Ice Shop
Any business that opens in a dusk market must have something special to offer, as it's not easy to meet the high standards of savvy customers. Tian Cao Ice Shop stands out with its artistic vibe, which is quite rare in the market, and has managed to thrive right at the entrance of Deming Dusk Market. Aside from its affordable prices, what really sets Tian Cao Ice Shop apart is the fresh and tasty toppings they prepare on the spot. No wonder it attracts so many customers!
Tian Cao Ice Shop No. 69, Zhongchang St., Nanzi Dist., Kaohsiung
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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◦ Other Areas in Kaohsiung
➤ Neimen | A Town Renowned for its Traditional Folk Arts
➤ Cieding | The Hometown of Mullet Roe
➤ Gangshan | The Only Remaining Bamboo Basket Festival in Taiwan