The International Investor on the Go: A Visit to Kaohsiung, Taiwan: A City of Industrial Might and Unexpected Charm
As an international investor, I’ve ventured to cities where business thrives and economies hum with activity. Yet, Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, surprised me with its multifaceted identity. Known as a global shipping hub, Kaohsiung revealed itself to be much more — a city of contrasts where industrial prowess coexists with vibrant culture, culinary delights, and green ambitions.
A Titan of Industry
Kaohsiung’s economic backbone is its port, the largest in Taiwan and one of the busiest globally.
Strolling along the harbor, I marveled at the sheer scale of operations. The Port of Kaohsiung handles over 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually, linking Taiwan to markets across Asia and beyond. But the city isn’t resting on its laurels; it’s diversifying. The Linhai Industrial Park, a petrochemical stronghold, is evolving into a hub for green energy and hydrogen technology. This shift signals Kaohsiung’s commitment to sustainability while maintaining its industrial edge.
Steel and shipbuilding are synonymous with Kaohsiung. The China Steel Corporation and CSBC Corporation, Taiwan’s largest steel and shipbuilding firms, dominate the skyline and the economy.
These industries supply not just Taiwan but much of Asia, reinforcing Kaohsiung’s status as a regional powerhouse.
A Culinary Adventure
Kaohsiung’s economy may be industrial, but its soul is culinary. The city’s night markets are a feast for the senses. At Liuhe Night Market, I savored traditional Taiwanese snacks like oyster omelets and stinky tofu, balanced by innovative offerings such as charcoal-grilled milkfish, a nod to the region’s thriving aquaculture industry.
For a more upscale experience, I visited local seafood restaurants showcasing Kaohsiung’s maritime heritage. Fresh grouper, often farmed in nearby coastal areas, was prepared in ways that highlighted its natural flavor — steamed with soy sauce and ginger, or grilled to perfection.
Life in Kaohsiung: Vibrant Yet Laid-Back
Kaohsiung’s lifestyle struck me as a harmonious blend of urban energy and relaxed charm. The Love River, once polluted, is now a centerpiece of urban renewal. Its tree-lined promenades and riverside cafes are perfect for an evening stroll or a casual business meeting.
The city’s transformation into a cultural hotspot is epitomized by the Pier-2 Art Center. This repurposed warehouse district is now a hive of creativity, featuring art installations, galleries, and workshops. It’s also a testament to how Kaohsiung is leveraging its industrial past to forge a vibrant future.
Must-See Sights and Events
Kaohsiung offers more than just business opportunities; it’s a city that invites exploration. Here are my top recommendations:
Lotus Pond: A serene escape featuring iconic pagodas and dragon-and-tiger temples. It’s believed that entering the dragon’s throat and coming out of the tiger’s mouth turns bad luck to good fortune. The area reflects Kaohsiung’s spiritual and cultural depth.
Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts: This impressive museum showcases Taiwanese and international art in a serene park setting. With rotating exhibitions and a focus on cultural dialogue, it’s a must-visit for art lovers.
Fo Guang Shan Monastery: A short drive from the city, this sprawling Buddhist complex is both a place of worship and a center for cultural exchange.
Art Kaohsiung: An annual event that brings together contemporary artists, galleries, and collectors from around the world. It’s a celebration of creativity and a platform for discovering cutting-edge art.
A City on the Rise
What struck me most about Kaohsiung is its ability to evolve. From its origins as a colonial trade port to its rise as an industrial giant and now its pivot toward sustainability and creative industries, the city embodies resilience and innovation. For investors, travelers, art lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike, Kaohsiung is a city that delivers — not just in profits but in experiences that linger long after you’ve left.