15 Best Tours In Kaohsiung

The 15 Best Tours in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung might not be Taiwan’s capital, but it’s a city that packs a punch. With its bustling port, colorful temples, impressive art spaces, and scenic coastlines, Kaohsiung is a playground for travelers who like to see a lot in a day. Whether you prefer a private tour tailored to your interests or a food crawl through Tainan, this list covers the best options to explore the city in depth. We especially like the Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour, which lets you pick your stops, and the Shore Excursion to Buddha Bliss and Baking Fun, perfect for a mix of spiritual and culinary delights.

For a truly personalized experience, the Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour is hard to beat. It combines comfort, flexibility, and insight into Kaohsiung’s highlights, including the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum and the Pier-2 Art Centre. Meanwhile, the Kaohsiung Shore Excursion to Buddha Bliss and Baking Fun offers a welcoming blend of spiritual sites and hands-on food experiences for cruise visitors. No matter your style, there’s a tour here that will help you get a real feel for the city.

Quick Overview

This list includes a variety of full-day private tours, cultural walking adventures, shore excursions, and specialized experiences like food tours or boat rides. For example, the Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Kaohsiung Port Shore offers a relaxed, comprehensive look at the city’s top sights, while the Kaohsiung Ancient Capital & Wushantou Reservoir One Day Tour mixes scenic landscapes with historical sites. Food lovers might prefer the Food and Culture Walking Tour in Tainan, which showcases local flavors and artisan shops.

Below, each tour is broken down with details on what makes it special, practical info, and who it’s best suited for. Whether you’re after a luxury private experience or a budget-friendly cultural walk, this guide will help you pick the right tour for your trip.

1. Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour

This full-day sightseeing tour is all about flexibility—your itinerary, your pace. For $236 per group (up to 3), you’ll travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle. You can customize your stops to include favorites like the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Dragon Tiger Tower, Pier-2 Art Centre, and the Dome of Light, or ask for different sites that catch your interest. The tour is rated a perfect 5/5 with 81 reviews, with travelers praising Charlie Lee for his friendliness and knowledge.

Guests love how easy it is to see multiple sights without feeling rushed, and the flexibility to tailor the day makes it ideal for those with specific interests or limited time. One reviewer mentioned, “Charlie is warm, friendly, and informative,” emphasizing the personalized experience. The tour includes all tolls and parking, making it straightforward and stress-free. If you’re after a luxury, customized day in Kaohsiung, this tour is a top pick.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible, and comprehensive introduction to Kaohsiung—great value and expert guiding.

2. Private Classic Kaohsiung Day Tour

This 8-hour private tour for $230 (up to 3 people) offers a curated look at Kaohsiung’s key highlights. It includes visits to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Dragon Tiger Tower, Dome of Light, and Xiziwan for a sunset view. The guide will share insights into the city’s maritime history and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for first-timers or those seeking a balanced overview. The private experience ensures your group can explore at your own pace.

Reviews note the guide Bruce Lee’s warmth and the seamless logistics. One comment mentions, “This tour is an excellent way to see a lot in limited time,” which highlights its efficiency. The inclusion of iconic sites like the Buddha Tooth Relic and the light art installation at Formosa Boulevard makes this a well-rounded introduction.

Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers who want a reliable, guided overview with a personal touch, especially if they’re short on time.

3. Food and Culture Walking Tour in Tainan

This 4-hour walking tour costs $78 per person and is perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts. Based in Tainan, Taiwan’s gourmet capital, it includes tastings at Shuixian Gong Market, visits to Grand Mazu Temple, and stops at artisan shops along Yongfu Road. You’ll also see the famous cinema where Ang Lee’s filmmaking dreams started, plus traditional industries like embroidery. The guide Jenny’s enthusiasm is clear—she’s a wealth of knowledge about local food, temples, and crafts.

Travelers appreciate the mix of food sampling and cultural sights, with one reviewer saying, “Jenny shows you artisan shops, temples, and myths, making it a well-rounded experience.” The tour balances big attractions with hidden artisan spots, making it easy to see the essence of Tainan in just a few hours.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an immersive, tasty day exploring Taiwan’s culinary heart with a knowledgeable guide.

4. Tainan Ancient Capital & Wushantou Reservoir One Day Tour

For $350 (up to 6 people), this 8-hour tour takes you from Tainan’s historic sites to scenic reservoir views. You’ll explore Anping Tree House, Fort Zeelandia, and Old Street, then relax on a boat ride at Wushantou Reservoir. The tour stands out for combining cultural heritage with scenic nature—a great pairing for those keen on history and photography.

Reviews commend Richard and Maggie for their knowledge and friendliness, noting that the boat ride at the reservoir adds a peaceful, scenic element that’s rare on typical tours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of history and quiet natural beauty. Plus, the boat trip on the reservoir offers a different perspective of Taiwan’s inland landscape.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full, diverse day with a good mix of history, scenery, and relaxed boat rides.

5. Kaohsiung Area Classic Tour

This 8-hour private trip at $350 (up to 4 people) covers many of Kaohsiung’s highlights, including Lotus Pond, Cijin Island, and British Consulate. The tour emphasizes natural sights, including the seaside and mountain views, with stops at iconic temples and the Dome of Light. One unique feature is the visit to Cijin Island, famous for its seafood and lighthouse.

Rated 5/5 by two reviewers, this tour is appreciated for its comprehensive yet relaxed pacing and expert guide. The inclusion of Cijin Island makes it appealing for those interested in a seaside escape with cultural stops. It’s suitable for travelers who want a balanced outdoor and cultural experience in one day.

Bottom Line: A versatile choice for exploring both city and coast, with a focus on natural beauty and local flavors.

6. Kaohsiung Shore Excursion to Buddha Bliss and Baking Fun

This 6-8 hour cruise shore experience costs $199 per person, perfect if your time in port is limited. It includes a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, a hands-on Pineapple Cake DIY workshop, and exploring Lotus Pond. The highlight is the mix of spiritual and culinary activities, appealing to travelers craving a meaningful yet tasty experience.

Reviewers describe the DIY workshop as fun and memorable, and the Buddha Center as peaceful. The tour provides pickup & drop-off from Kaohsiung HSR, making it very convenient for cruise passengers. If you want a balance of spiritual, cultural, and foodie fun in a short time, this tour fits the bill.

Bottom Line: Best for cruise travelers wanting a variety of memorable experiences with a relaxing pace.

7. Private Tour Shore Excursion in Kaohsiung City

For $199 (up to 4), this private 6-8 hour tour offers maximum flexibility. Your guide will tailor the day based on your interests, visiting sites such as Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, and Qijin Island. The focus on customization makes it ideal for travelers who know what they want to see. One reviewer praised Joseph Chien for taking them to “cool places” and being very knowledgeable.

The tour’s strength lies in its adaptability—if you’re a discerning traveler with specific sites in mind, this is a great option. However, some reviews mention language barriers, so it’s better suited for those comfortable with some flexibility or translation.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a tailored experience with a local guide, especially if they have a list of must-see sights.

8. 1 Day Tour – Kaohsiung

This 8-hour tour for $160 (per person) offers a simple, flexible way to explore Kaohsiung. It includes visits to The British Consulate, Formosa Boulevard Station with its impressive Dome of Light, and Weiwuying National Arts Center. It is rated 4/5 based on 7 reviews, with travelers appreciating the easy pace and personalized touch from the guide.

It’s ideal if you prefer a less structured, more relaxed day, with the option to customize stops based on your interests. The main drawback is that some reviews mention language barriers, so knowing some Chinese or having a flexible attitude helps.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, adaptable day with key sites and personal guidance.

9. Kaohsiung Private Walking Tour with a Local

Starting at just $48 per person, this private walking tour offers an authentic experience with a local guide. The itinerary is completely customized based on your preferences, meaning you could visit Monkey Mountain, tea houses, or other hidden spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the city through local eyes and have a flexible schedule.

Reviewers note that guides like Yu excel at personalized attention and sharing local insights. One person described it as “like having a local friend show you around,” which is a big plus for those seeking genuine connections.

Bottom Line: Best for budget-conscious travelers who want a highly personalized, flexible experience.

10. Kaohsiung’s Cruiseship Shore Excursion

This 4-5 hour tour costs $300 per group (up to 6), designed for cruise visitors. It allows you to visit Lotus Pond, Chi-jin Island, and the Dome of Light—with options to modify the itinerary if you’re short on time. The convenience of underwater tunnel travel and customizable stops appeals to cruise passengers eager to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Rated 4.5/5, travelers highlight the friendly guides and seamless logistics, though some mention language barriers. Still, it’s a good way to cover a lot of ground in a short port call.

Bottom Line: Excellent for cruise travelers wanting a tailored, efficient day with multiple iconic sites.

11. Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Kaohsiung Port Shore

At $350 (up to 4), this full-day private tour emphasizes comfort and flexibility. It features visits to Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Lotus Pond, and Pier-2 Art Center, with a guide who can customize the day. The professional guide and private transportation make it a stress-free option. One reviewer said, “Andy is a very nice guy, took us everywhere,” showing the personal touch.

It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with the freedom to choose sites. The emphasis on ecology, art, and culture makes it a well-rounded choice.

Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a luxurious, in-depth day exploring Kaohsiung at a relaxed pace.

12. Taiwan Tour Bus Siao Liuchiu-Coral Island One Day Tour

Rated only 2/5, this full-day tour on Coral Island offers underwater explorations and seafood feasts. For $240 per group (up to 2), it includes star-shaped sands, sea turtle sightings, and submarine boat tours. The main appeal is the marine life, but reviews mention inconsistent guide service and language barriers.

This tour best suits adventurous travelers eager to experience Coral Island’s natural beauty, but it may lack the polish of higher-rated options.

Bottom Line: Great for sea-life enthusiasts willing to accept some logistical hiccups.

13. Kaohsiung Private Tour with English-speaking driver

For $345 (up to 3), this customizable private tour emphasizes flexibility and comfort. You’ll explore sites like Dragon Tiger Tower, Qijin, and the British Consulate at your own pace. Some reviews highlight language barriers, but overall, the personalized itinerary and private transport make it attractive for independent-minded travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who want to craft their day and enjoy the convenience of door-to-door service.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who know what they want and value personalized planning.

14. Kaohsiung Departure – Tainan city day tour

This 8-hour tour for $180 per person is a good option for travelers leaving Kaohsiung who want a taste of Tainan. The itinerary includes Anping Fort, Tree House, and Sicao Dazhong Temple, with possible adjustments if needed. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see Tainan’s highlights.

Reviews are sparse, but the itinerary suggests a focus on historic sites. It’s suitable for those with limited time but interested in Taiwan’s oldest forts and streets.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a quick, guided trip to Tainan before departure.

15. Alishan Day Tour from Kaohsiung (Incl. Park Entrance)

This 11-hour tour at $85 per person is ideal for nature lovers. It includes a visit to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, famous for ancient trees, sea of clouds, and scenic trails. You’ll explore famous spots like Numaping Station and Magnolia Garden. The tour is perfect for anyone wanting a full day of mountain scenery and peaceful walks.

While not cheap, the park entrance fee is included, making it a good value for lovers of hiking and forest scenery. Reviewers praise the professional guide and the stunning landscape.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a mountain escape with easy access from Kaohsiung.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interest areas, physical ability, and how much flexibility you want. If you prefer a completely private and customizable experience, the Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour is hard to beat, with reviews praising its tailored approach. Want a quick, efficient intro? The Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Kaohsiung Port Shore balances sightseeing with comfort. For food and local flavor, the Tainan Food and Culture Walking Tour offers a tasty, culture.

Always check the group size, included experiences, and reviews to find the best fit. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons or for popular private tours.

In The Sum Up

Kaohsiung offers an impressive variety of tours, whether you’re after a private, tailor-made day, a cultural walk, or a cruise shore excursion. For a luxury experience, the Private Custom Kaohsiung Day Tour shines, while budget travelers might appreciate the Kaohsiung Private Walking Tour with a Local. If your time is limited, the Shore Excursion to Buddha Bliss and Baking Fun hits multiple highlights in a short window.

No matter what your style or interest, Kaohsiung’s tours promise a well-rounded, engaging experience. Booking early will ensure you get the dates you want and the guides you’ll love. Now, pick your perfect tour and prepare for a memorable adventure in Taiwan’s port city.