Cihou Fort Kaohsiung
Historic 19th-century fort on Cijin Island offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor and the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour sunset views
Cihou Fort Kaohsiung
Best Time
Golden hour sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 19th-century fort on Cijin Island offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor and the city.
"An amazing piece of history that also provides the best view of the South China Sea."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the fort involves stairs and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The views are spectacular during golden hour. Plan your visit to catch the sunset over the harbor.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cihou Fort's Panoramic Views
Summit of Cihou Mountain
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Kaohsiung Harbor, the city skyline, and the South China Sea.
Historic Architecture
Cihou Fort grounds
Explore the well-preserved 19th-century fort, a testament to its strategic importance in guarding the harbor.
Proximity to Kaohsiung Lighthouse
Adjacent to Cihou Fort
A short walk from the fort leads to the iconic Kaohsiung Lighthouse, offering complementary scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Free Entry & Accessibility Notes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the fort involves stairs and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The views are spectacular during golden hour. Plan your visit to catch the sunset over the harbor.
👨👩👧👦 Supervise Children
Some areas have non-railed access. Ensure children are supervised for their safety.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning panoramic views and historic architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the fort involves stairs and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The views are spectacular during golden hour. Plan your visit to catch the sunset over the harbor.
👨👩👧👦 Supervise Children
Some areas have non-railed access. Ensure children are supervised for their safety.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning panoramic views and historic architecture.
🚶♀️ Easy Climb from Pier
It's about a 20-minute walk from the pier, and the climb is generally family-friendly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cihou Fort for its well-preserved historical significance and its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor and the city. The free admission is a major draw, and many find the short climb rewarding. However, some caution is advised regarding non-railed areas, making it less ideal for those with mobility issues.
"One of the most impressive landmarks in Kaohsiung to us. The fort was somehow well preserved and offered a great view, not only to Cijin island, but also the city downtown. Free admission to everyone and a short steep walk from the carpark was required."
Lê Quang Kiệt
"Well preserved historical site; during the second world war.
Entrance to the site is free; but do be aware of the non-railed access. If you are not careful, you may fall from heights. Children to be supervised for safety reason. Not friendly to mobility challenged visitors."
Guanny G
"Panoramic 360 degree view of the ocean, the port and the beach. A few mins away from the lighthouse. 20 mins walk from the pier; easy climb and family friendly"
Gerald Cheung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Cihou Fort is by taking the Qijin Ferry from Gushan Ferry Pier to Cijin Island. From the Cijin ferry terminal, it's about a 20-minute walk or a short bike ride to the fort. Many visitors rent bikes on Cijin Island to explore.
Yes, there is parking available on Cijin Island, including near the ferry terminal and closer to the fort. However, parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.
Taxis are available on Cijin Island, but they may not be able to drive directly to the fort's entrance due to narrow paths. You might need to walk the final stretch.
Renting a bicycle is highly recommended for exploring Cijin Island. It allows you to easily visit other attractions like the beach, lighthouse, and seafood market at your own pace. 
While there isn't direct bus service to the fort itself, the island is small enough to walk or cycle. The ferry is the primary public transport to get to Cijin Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Cihou Fort is completely free! This makes it an excellent value for experiencing a historical landmark and enjoying stunning views.
Cihou Fort is generally open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to enjoy it at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no admission fee. You can simply show up and explore the fort.
While generally accessible, visitors should be aware of non-railed access points and exercise caution. It is not considered friendly for mobility-challenged visitors.
Yes, the climb is generally family-friendly, but adult supervision is crucial due to potential heights and non-railed areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of the harbor and city. The fort's architecture itself is also very photogenic, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Drone photography regulations can change, but some videos show drone footage of the fort. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Late afternoon for the golden hour and sunset provides the most dramatic lighting. Morning light is also beautiful and less crowded.
Yes, the fort offers excellent vantage points to photograph the nearby Kaohsiung Lighthouse, creating a beautiful composition.
Look for the unique star fort design elements and the historical structures that showcase its past military significance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Cihou Fort. However, Cijin Island is famous for its fresh seafood and numerous eateries near the pier and along the coast.
Don't miss the fresh seafood, grilled squid, oyster omelets, and local snacks. Many visitors also enjoy beef noodle soup and matcha treats.
Shoreline Coffee & Roaster is a popular spot on Cijin Island, offering coffee with scenic views, located not too far from the lighthouse and fort.
While seafood is prevalent, you can find some vegetable-based dishes and snacks. It's advisable to ask at local restaurants for vegetarian choices.
There might be small vendors selling drinks and snacks on the path leading up to the fort, especially during peak hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider packing snacks and water, as amenities directly at the fort are limited. The ferry ride to Cijin Island itself is often an exciting part of the adventure for kids. The island's relaxed atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a great destination for a family day out.
🚶 Budget Travelers
You can save money by packing your own snacks and water, though Cijin Island offers affordable and delicious local food options, especially fresh seafood. +1Many of Cijin Island's attractions, including the beaches and the lighthouse, are also free to access, making it a very cost-effective destination for a day trip from Kaohsiung.
💑 Couples
+1 The fort provides a scenic backdrop for photos and a peaceful spot to enjoy the coastal scenery together. Afterward, explore the charming Cijin Island hand-in-hand. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coast, share fresh seafood dinners, or find a cozy cafe like Shoreline Coffee & Roaster to relax and watch the waves.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Importance of Cihou Fort
+1During World War II, the fort played a role in the island's defense. Today, its well-preserved structures stand as a testament to its historical significance. Visitors can explore the ramparts, cannons, and other remnants of its military past, gaining insight into Taiwan's history and its maritime defense strategies. The fort's repurposing over time by various empires is also a point of historical interest.
The fort's name, 'Cihou,' is derived from the indigenous Siraya language, reflecting the long history of human presence in the area. Its enduring presence offers a tangible link to the past, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Experiencing Cijin Island Beyond the Fort
+1The island boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying the sea breeze. The Tunnel of Stars provides a unique, artfully lit pathway, while the Seaside Park offers a pleasant green space. For those interested in local life, the Cijin Seafood Market is a must-visit for fresh catches and delicious street food.
+1Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies like oyster omelets, grilled squid, and the famous coconut ice cream. Cafes like Shoreline Coffee & Roaster offer a modern twist with ocean views, making Cijin Island a well-rounded destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
+2Photography Tips for Cihou Fort and Cijin
+1 The contrast between the historic fort architecture and the modern cityscape provides unique photographic opportunities. When exploring Cijin Island, look for vibrant street art, colorful fishing boats, and the iconic Kaohsiung Lighthouse. The Tunnel of Stars offers a chance for creative shots with its unique lighting. Remember to capture the bustling atmosphere of the seafood market and the serene beauty of the coastline.
+1Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast landscapes and a telephoto lens to focus on details within the fort or distant cityscapes. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to make your photos stand out.
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