Dragon and Tiger Pagodas Kaohsiung
Iconic vibrant pagodas on Lotus Pond, offering a symbolic journey for good luck and stunning reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical lighting, stunning reflections.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas Kaohsiung
Best Time
Magical lighting, stunning reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic vibrant pagodas on Lotus Pond, offering a symbolic journey for good luck and stunning reflections.
"Enter the dragon, exit the tiger for good luck at Kaohsiung's famous Lotus Pond pagodas."
🎯 Enter Dragon, Exit Tiger
Walk into the dragon's mouth and out of the tiger's for good luck!
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit during blue hour for stunning reflections and vibrant colors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
Lotus Pond
Iconic vibrant pagodas; enter the dragon, exit the tiger for good fortune.
+1
Lotus Pond Scenic Area
Surrounding the pagodas
A serene lake with other temples and walkways, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Entering the Dragon, Exiting the Tiger
Pagoda entrances
A symbolic ritual for good luck and peace, a must-do experience.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Renovation Status
Understand the Symbolism
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enter Dragon, Exit Tiger
Walk into the dragon's mouth and out of the tiger's for good luck!
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit during blue hour for stunning reflections and vibrant colors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
Lotus Pond has other temples and scenic spots worth exploring.
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy this iconic landmark without any entry fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enter Dragon, Exit Tiger
Walk into the dragon's mouth and out of the tiger's for good luck!
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit during blue hour for stunning reflections and vibrant colors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
Lotus Pond has other temples and scenic spots worth exploring.
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy this iconic landmark without any entry fee.
⚠️ Check Accessibility
Renovations may affect access; confirm before visiting. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are a visually striking and iconic landmark in Kaohsiung, celebrated for their vibrant colors and symbolic meaning. Visitors appreciate the unique experience of entering through the dragon and exiting the tiger for good fortune, as well as the beautiful reflections on Lotus Pond, especially during blue hour. While some find them lacking historical depth, their distinct 70s charm and the surrounding scenic area are highly praised. It's important to note potential ongoing renovations that may affect accessibility.
"It’s a religious monument but also a major tourist attraction. The reflection on the water makes it look surreal. It would be more interesting if you know the meaning of each architectural feature."
World Explorer
"One of Kaohsiung’s most iconic sights, featured in almost every photo of the city. Built in the 1970s, it lacks the historic feel of much older temples or pagodas, but it still has its own character — a very 70s vibe — which I actually like. The open mouths of the dragon and tiger give it a slightly playful, almost theme-park feel, yet the location at Lotus Pond is beautiful. The area is worth exploring further, with many other temples, a walkway and bridge leading up to a small hill, and a nice viewpoint. Like most places, it’s at its most beautiful during blue hour, when the lights come on and the mix of warm and cool colors creates a stunning contrast."
nik
"The Dragon and Tiger Tower at Lotus Lake is one of attraction landmark in Kaohsiung, known for its vibrant design and cultural significance. While the entrance of Tiger and dragon was closed during my visit, the scenic surroundings make it a great spot for a walk or bike ride for families.
Nearby, the Beiji Xuantian Shangdi Temple impresses with its intricate architecture and religious importance, while the Spring and Autumn Pavilions feature a stunning tower and a massive dragon sculpture but entrance closed during my visit.
Admission is free!
If you’re exploring Kaohsiung, it’s definitely a place to check out—just be sure to confirm its accessibility before your visit!"
Yu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are located at No. 9, Liantan Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City. You can reach them via public transport, including buses that stop nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services or taxis.
Parking can be available in the vicinity of Lotus Pond, but it might be limited, especially during peak hours or weekends. Arriving early or using public transport is often recommended.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, especially if you are exploring other sites around Lotus Pond. However, Kaohsiung is quite spread out, so public transport or taxis are generally more efficient for longer distances.
Kaohsiung has a good public transportation system, including the MRT and buses. For flexibility, consider renting a scooter or using ride-sharing apps.
Several bus routes serve the Lotus Pond area. It's advisable to check local Kaohsiung bus schedules or use a navigation app for the most up-to-date route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The pagodas are generally open daily from 6 AM to 5:30 PM. However, the lighting hours extend until 5 AM the next day, offering a different experience at night.
There have been ongoing renovations. While some parts may be accessible, it's best to confirm the current status before your visit, as renovations were expected to continue until mid-2025. +1
No, tickets are not required as admission is free. However, if renovations are ongoing, access might be restricted.
The Lotus Pond area itself is a public space and generally free to access. The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas within the area also have no admission fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Entering through the dragon's mouth and exiting through the tiger's mouth is a symbolic ritual believed to bring good luck and peace, warding off misfortune.
Inside the pagodas, you'll find colorful paintings and murals depicting various scenes and stories, offering a glimpse into local beliefs and culture.
Yes, climbing to the top of the pagodas offers a scenic view of Lotus Pond and the surrounding area, providing a different perspective of the landmark.
Absolutely! Lotus Pond is home to several other temples, including the Confucius Temple, Yuandi Temple, and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, all worth exploring.
Yes, the area around Lotus Pond is generally family-friendly, offering a pleasant environment for walks and sightseeing, though access to the pagodas themselves might be affected by renovations.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'blue hour' just after sunset is highly recommended for photography, as the lights illuminate the pagodas and create stunning reflections on the water. Daytime offers vibrant colors, while sunrise can also be beautiful.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in public spaces and near religious sites before flying.
Popular shots include the pagodas reflected in the water, close-ups of the dragon and tiger statues, and wide-angle views of the entire Lotus Pond area.
Photography is generally allowed inside the pagodas, but it's always good practice to be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage regarding photography restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the pagodas and the surrounding landscape. A tripod can be very useful for low-light photography during blue hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open spaces around the pond are great for kids to walk or run around, and the presence of other temples provides opportunities for learning about different cultures. It's advisable to check the current renovation status before visiting, as this might affect access to the pagodas themselves. If access is limited, the broader Lotus Pond area still provides a pleasant environment for a family outing. Pack snacks and water, and consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to ensure a comfortable experience for younger children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore different angles, including close-ups of the dragon and tiger statues and the colorful murals inside the pagodas (if accessible). The surrounding temples and the expansive pond also offer numerous photographic opportunities. Be aware of potential renovation closures that might affect certain viewpoints.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, utilize Kaohsiung's public transportation system, which is efficient and affordable. Pack your own snacks and water, as purchasing them at tourist spots can be more expensive. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid potential crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism and Architecture
+2The architecture itself is striking, with vibrant colors and intricate details. The dragon and tiger statues guarding the entrances are imposing, and the pagodas' reflections on the water add a surreal quality to the scene, especially during the golden hour or blue hour. While they may lack the ancient historical feel of older temples, their unique 1970s aesthetic gives them a distinct character.
Beyond the main pagodas, the surrounding Lotus Pond area is dotted with other significant religious structures, such as the Confucius Temple and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, offering a richer cultural experience for those who take the time to explore.
Visiting During Renovations
Despite potential closures due to renovations, the surrounding Lotus Pond area remains a beautiful and worthwhile destination. Visitors can still enjoy the scenic lake, explore other nearby temples like the Confucius Temple and Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and appreciate the overall ambiance of the location.
If your visit coincides with renovation periods, consider focusing on the external beauty of the pagodas and the broader Lotus Pond landscape. The reflections on the water and the architectural grandeur can still be appreciated from the outside, and the area offers plenty of opportunities for photography and peaceful contemplation.
Photography Tips for the Pagodas
When composing your shots, consider the scale of the pagodas. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for encompassing the entire structure and its surroundings. Don't forget to get close-ups of the intricate details on the dragon and tiger statues, as well as the colorful murals inside the pagodas if accessible.
While drone photography offers unique aerial perspectives, always be mindful of local regulations regarding drone usage in public and religious areas.
Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any worshippers present, especially when taking photos inside the pagodas. 
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