Cijin Island (Qijin) - Image 1
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Cijin Island

4.5
·125 reviews·, Taiwan

A charming island escape easily reached by ferry, offering black sand beaches, historic sites, and vibrant photo spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, shorter ferry waits

CrowdLow
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Cijin Island (Qijin) - Image 1

Cijin Island

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, shorter ferry waits

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming island escape easily reached by ferry, offering black sand beaches, historic sites, and vibrant photo spots.

4.5
(125 reviews)

"Without doubt, a must when visiting Kaohsiung. If I only had a day in Kaohsiung, this is indubitably the MUST see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rent an Electric Bike

Best way to explore! Rent outside the ferry for ~NT$200/2 hrs. :electric_plug:

⛴️ Ferry Ride Tips

Quick 5-10 min ride from Gushan Port. Use Easycard for ~NT$20 fare. :ferry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cijin Black Sand Beach

Cijin Black Sand Beach

Cijin Island

Unique black sand beach offering stunning sunset views and a refreshing escape from the city bustle.

TikTokInstagram
Cijin Lighthouse & Fort

Cijin Lighthouse & Fort

Cijin Island

Historic lighthouse and fort providing panoramic views of Kaohsiung and the surrounding sea.

TikTokInstagram
Rainbow Church

Rainbow Church

Cijin Island

A vibrant, photogenic landmark perfect for capturing colorful memories on your island adventure.

Instagram
Cijin Cycling Path

Cijin Cycling Path

Cijin Island

Scenic path perfect for electric bike rides, connecting various attractions across the island.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Wait Times

Expect longer ferry waits, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed journey to Cijin Island. Reddit

Sun Protection is Key

The sun can be intense, even in early spring. Bring sunscreen, hats, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day for comfortable exploration. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, shorter ferry waits
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Escape the midday sun
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

CIJIN ISLAND KAOHSIUNG TAIWAN: One of my favorite place to visit 😍 Super chill and relaxing murang bilihin and the activities na pwedi mong gawin 🫶🏻 Also this video contains how you can get there po 😘 #taiwan #cijinkaohsiung #ofwtaiwan #fyp #minivlog
@akosirevo
3.4K likes • 86.2K views

🎯 Rent an Electric Bike

Best way to explore! Rent outside the ferry for ~NT$200/2 hrs. InstagramReddit :electric_plug:

⛴️ Ferry Ride Tips

Quick 5-10 min ride from Gushan Port. Use Easycard for ~NT$20 fare. TikTokInstagramReddit :ferry:

A slow little tour in Cijin #taiwan🇹🇼 #taiwanplacestovisit #exploretaiwan #taiwanitinerary #cijinkaohsiung #kaohsiungitinerary #lighthouse #kaohsiung
@lovelilyday
2.5K likes • 47.9K views
ค่าเรือเที่ยวละ15บาท! มาเที่ยว #เกาะฉีจิน Cijin Island 🗺️✨ เกาะเล็กๆที่น่ารักในเกาสง ไต้หวัน เดินทางง่าย ค่าเรือเฟอรี่ถูกมากก! ใครมาเที่ยวเกาสง แนะนำให้ช่วงเย็นเลยค่ะ บรรยากาศตอนพระอาทิตย์ตกชิลมากก😍 #รีวิวไต้หวัน #เกาสง #ไต้หวัน #เที่ยวไต้หวันด้วยตัวเอง #Kaohsiung #CijinIsland
khaminnsroaming
500 likes • 16.7K views

☀️ Sun Protection

Sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated! Reddit :sunwithface:

📸 Photo Spots Galore

Rainbow Church, windmills, and coastal views offer great photo ops. Instagram+1 :camerawithflash:

Cijin Island Guide! 🗺️ Save this post for your next trip to Cijin Island in Kaohsiung, Taiwan 💙 Tips: when renting the bike, you can visit some rental places and compare their price as they may have price difference! 💸 #kaohsiung #cijinisland #高雄 #旗津 #cijin #kaohsiungtravel #explorekaohsiung #taiwan
ivyluvv.travel
19 likes • 651 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rent an Electric Bike

Best way to explore! Rent outside the ferry for ~NT$200/2 hrs. InstagramReddit :electric_plug:

⛴️ Ferry Ride Tips

Quick 5-10 min ride from Gushan Port. Use Easycard for ~NT$20 fare. TikTokInstagramReddit :ferry:

☀️ Sun Protection

Sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated! Reddit :sunwithface:

📸 Photo Spots Galore

Rainbow Church, windmills, and coastal views offer great photo ops. Instagram+1 :camerawithflash:

💰 Bike Rental Prices

Compare prices at different rental shops for the best deal. Instagram :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(125 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cijin Island is a highly recommended day trip from Kaohsiung, praised for its easy accessibility via a short ferry ride and affordable exploration options like electric bikes. Visitors love the scenic black sand beach, historic lighthouse, and vibrant Rainbow Church, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities. However, some find the island can get very crowded, especially on weekends, and the sun can be quite intense even outside of summer.

"We took the ferry to Cijin, a short ride, but the waiting could be pretty long, especially on the weekend. The old street was, like any other old street in Taiwan, super busy. The views at the beaches were spectacular. The views from the ferry to the Gulshan Ferry Pier were beautiful."

Patrick Xu

"Kiting through Kaohsiung with the wind as our guide for playful vibes, Kites, color, and Cijin Beach magic."

shi NïNG

"An easy morning itinerary from Kaohsiung with convenient and cheap transportation to and fro. We dropped by to enjoy a cycle along the beach, but the sun was brutal even in early March. Overall, nice scenery with well marked cycling paths and wayfinding around, but otherwise nothing much to see besides the art installations for people to take photos with."

Darren

What People Like

Easy ferry access
Affordable bike rentals
Scenic black sand beach

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Intense sun

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Take the MRT to Sizihwan Station (Orange Line) or Kaohsiung Light Rail to Gushan Ferry Pier. From there, a short 5-10 minute ferry ride will take you to Cijin Island. The ferry is convenient and affordable, costing around NT$20-30 per person, and you can often pay with an Easycard. TikTokInstagramReddit

The High-Speed Rail (HSR) is the fastest option to reach Kaohsiung, arriving at Zuoying Station. From Zuoying, you can then take the MRT to Sizihwan Station to catch the ferry. Instagram

Yes, the best way to explore Cijin Island is by renting an electric bike or scooter. You can find rental shops right outside the ferry terminal. InstagramReddit

The ferry ride from Gushan Port to Cijin Island is very short, typically taking about 5 to 10 minutes. Instagram+1

Yes, you can usually pay for the ferry to Cijin Island using your Easycard, making the process convenient. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to Cijin Island itself. You only need to pay for the ferry ride and any activities or rentals you choose, such as electric bikes. Reddit

The ferry typically operates from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the latest schedule, especially if you plan to visit during holidays or late at night. Reddit

Most natural attractions like the beach and lighthouse area are free to access. Some specific attractions or museums might have a small fee, but generally, Cijin Island is very budget-friendly. TikTok

Electric bike rentals typically cost around NT$200 for 2 hours, which is usually sufficient time to explore the island. It's recommended to compare prices at different rental shops. Instagram+1

Ferry tickets are usually purchased on-site at the Gushan Ferry Pier. Advance booking is generally not necessary for the ferry itself. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Cijin Black Sand Beach for sunset, the historic Cijin Lighthouse and Fort for panoramic views, the colorful Rainbow Church, and the scenic Cijin Cycling Path. TikTokInstagram+1

Popular activities include cycling along the coast, exploring the black sand beach, visiting historical sites like the lighthouse and fort, and enjoying fresh seafood. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Cijin Island is a perfect day trip destination from Kaohsiung, offering a relaxing escape with plenty to see and do within a few hours. Instagram+1

Yes, Cijin Island is very photogenic! The Rainbow Church, windmills, coastal landscapes, and the lighthouse offer numerous opportunities for great photos. Instagram+1

The island is relatively flat, especially along the cycling paths, making it easy to explore by bike. There are some uphill sections to reach the lighthouse and fort. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Cijin Island is famous for its fresh seafood. You'll find numerous seafood restaurants along the old street. There are also options for snacks and local Taiwanese dishes. Reddit

While seafood is prevalent, you can often find vegetarian dishes at local eateries, especially if you look for vegetable-based stir-fries or noodle dishes. It's always good to ask. Reddit

Seafood is a must-try, from grilled fish to shellfish. Also, look out for local snacks and sweets sold along the old street. Reddit

Yes, Cijin Island offers a range of dining options to suit all budgets, from casual street food stalls to more formal seafood restaurants. Reddit

Yes, you can find various souvenirs, including dried seafood and local crafts, along the old street. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Cijin Black Sand Beach, especially during sunset, offers dramatic shots. The Rainbow Church provides vibrant colors, and the Cijin Lighthouse area gives stunning panoramic views. Instagram+2

Definitely! The island offers diverse photographic opportunities, from natural landscapes and coastal scenes to unique man-made structures like the Rainbow Church. Instagram

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography. However, the colorful Rainbow Church is great for photos any time of day. Instagram

While some users have shared drone footage,Instagram it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage in public areas and near sensitive sites before flying. Instagram

Visitors often highlight the Rainbow Church, the windmills, and the views from the lighthouse and fort as prime photo locations. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cijin Island is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The short ferry ride is an adventure in itself for children. Renting a four-seater electric bike is a great way for families to explore together comfortably and safely. Reddit The black sand beach offers a unique experience, and the relatively flat cycling paths make it easy for kids to enjoy the ride. Pack plenty of sunscreen and hats, as the sun can be strong, and ensure everyone stays hydrated. Reddit The Rainbow Church and windmills are also visually engaging for younger visitors. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Cijin Island is incredibly budget-friendly. The ferry ride is very cheap, and there's no entrance fee to the island itself. Renting a standard bicycle or an electric bike is affordable, especially if shared among a group. InstagramReddit You can find a wide range of food options, from inexpensive street snacks and local eateries to more upscale seafood restaurants, catering to all budgets. Reddit Many of the main attractions, like the beach and lighthouse views, are free to enjoy, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Taiwan without breaking the bank. TikTok

couples

For a romantic getaway, Cijin Island offers a charming escape. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coast, stopping at scenic viewpoints. The black sand beach is perfect for a sunset stroll, and the island's relaxed vibe provides a peaceful setting. Instagram Consider renting a bike with a back seat for two, or even a four-seater if you want extra space. Reddit Enjoying fresh seafood dinners at one of the island's many restaurants adds to the romantic experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting to Cijin Island: A Seamless Journey

Reaching Cijin Island is remarkably straightforward and a key part of the experience. The most common route involves taking the MRT to Sizihwan Station (on the Orange Line) or the Kaohsiung Light Rail to Gushan Ferry Pier. From either of these points, it's a short walk to the ferry terminal. The ferry itself is a quick, approximately 5-10 minute ride across the harbor, offering pleasant views of the Kaohsiung skyline and the port. The fare is very affordable, often around NT$20-30 per person, and can usually be paid with an Easycard, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option. TikTokInstagramReddit

For those arriving in Kaohsiung via High-Speed Rail (HSR), the destination station is Zuoying Station. From Zuoying, you'll need to transfer to the MRT system to reach Sizihwan Station. This journey is well-connected and part of the charm of exploring Kaohsiung. The entire process is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that visitors can easily access this popular island escape. Instagram

Many travelers emphasize that the ferry wait times can be significant, especially on weekends and holidays. To make the most of your visit and avoid long queues, it's highly recommended to plan your trip for weekdays or arrive early in the morning. Reddit

Exploring Cijin Island: The Joy of Cycling

Once you arrive on Cijin Island, the best way to immerse yourself in its laid-back atmosphere and explore its attractions is by renting an electric bike or scooter. Rental shops are readily available right outside the ferry terminal. A common recommendation is to rent for about 2 hours, which is generally ample time to cover the island's main sights. Prices are typically around NT$200 for this duration, but it's wise to compare rates among different vendors to secure the best deal. Instagram+1

The island features a well-developed Qijin Cycling Path that winds along the coast, connecting various points of interest. This path makes for a leisurely and enjoyable ride, allowing you to soak in the sea breeze and scenic views. The terrain is mostly flat along the coast, making it accessible for most visitors. Reddit

Key spots easily reachable by bike include the Cijin Tunnel, the iconic Rainbow Church, the Cijin Sea Pearl, Cijin Windmill Park, and the historic Cijin Lighthouse and Fort. The freedom of having your own transport allows you to stop at your own pace and discover hidden corners of the island. Instagram

Cijin Island's Natural Beauty and Landmarks

Cijin Island is celebrated for its unique natural landscapes and charming landmarks. The Cijin Black Sand Beach is a standout feature, offering a striking contrast to typical sandy shores and providing a beautiful backdrop for sunset views. Instagram The island's coastline is dotted with interesting geological formations and offers a refreshing sea breeze, making it a popular spot for relaxation. TikTok

Beyond the beach, Cijin boasts historical and architectural points of interest. The Cijin Lighthouse and the adjacent Cihou Fort are significant landmarks that offer not only a glimpse into the past but also breathtaking panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and the surrounding ocean. TikTokInstagram The Rainbow Church is another must-visit, a vibrant and modern structure that has become a popular spot for photos and a symbol of the island's appeal. Instagram

For those interested in unique sights, the Cijin Windmill Park adds a picturesque element to the landscape. The island also features art installations and sculptures, particularly along the cycling paths, which enhance the visual appeal and provide fun photo opportunities. Reddit It's worth noting that Cijin is not just a tourist spot but also a residential area, giving visitors a sense of local life. Reddit

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