Qishan Old Street
A charming historic street in Kaohsiung, famous for its unique banana treats and beautifully preserved baroque-style buildings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Qishan Old Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming historic street in Kaohsiung, famous for its unique banana treats and beautifully preserved baroque-style buildings.
"Definitely worth it! It's not so busy during the weekdays and you can try so many different specialities using their famous banana."
🎯 Try the Banana Ice Cream
Don't miss the famous banana ice cream! It's a must-try local specialty. , :ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
While the main street is lively, venture slightly off to discover more local charm and quieter spots. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Baroque Architecture
Along the main street
Admire the beautifully preserved buildings with unique baroque-style facades, remnants of the town's prosperous past. ,
+1
Delectable Banana Treats
Various food stalls
Indulge in a variety of banana-infused snacks, from ice cream to cakes and candies. A true taste of Qishan! ,
Lively Street Food Scene
Throughout the street
Sample a wide array of local delicacies and street food, offering a delicious culinary adventure for every palate. ,
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Experience
Embrace the Banana Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Banana Ice Cream
Don't miss the famous banana ice cream! It's a must-try local specialty.,
:ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
While the main street is lively, venture slightly off to discover more local charm and quieter spots.
🚌 Public Transport to Qishan
Buses are a common way to reach Qishan from Kaohsiung, but expect a journey of about 1.5 hours. :bus:
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Look for unique souvenirs, especially banana-related products and local crafts. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Banana Ice Cream
Don't miss the famous banana ice cream! It's a must-try local specialty.,
:ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Street
While the main street is lively, venture slightly off to discover more local charm and quieter spots.
🚌 Public Transport to Qishan
Buses are a common way to reach Qishan from Kaohsiung, but expect a journey of about 1.5 hours. :bus:
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Look for unique souvenirs, especially banana-related products and local crafts. :shopping_bags:
📸 Capture the Architecture
Take time to photograph the distinctive baroque-style buildings.,
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Qishan Old Street to be a charming and worthwhile destination, particularly for its unique banana-themed treats and historic architecture. The lively street food scene is a major draw, offering a wide variety of delicious and affordable options. While it can get crowded, especially during holidays, weekdays offer a more relaxed experience.,
"We went here last Jan 31. There's a lot of crowds given that it's Chinese New Year holiday. A lot of food to choose from and games people can play. Went there by bus and took about 1h and a half. All in all it was agreat experience 🙏🥰"
Cheddybear
"Definitely worth it! It's not so busy during the weekdays and you can try so many different specialities using their famous banana 🍌. A nice trip outside of the big cities!"
Augé Adrien
"An interested and great food street. When visiting here, you can visit Meinong Cultural Village across the bridge too. See beautiful and wonderful flower fields(Feb-Mar)"
Michael Wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Qishan Old Street from Kaohsiung is by bus. Several bus routes connect Kaohsiung to Qishan, with the journey typically taking around 1.5 hours. It's advisable to check bus schedules in advance.
Yes, public transport is feasible. Buses are readily available, though the travel time can be significant. For those coming from Tainan, specific bus transfers are mentioned for reaching attractions near Qishan.,
Driving is an option, and there are parking areas available. However, during peak times, parking might be challenging. Consider public transport if you prefer to avoid parking hassles.
From cities like Tainan, you might need to take a train to a transfer station and then a bus. For example, reaching Santaoshan Amusement Park near Qishan involves multiple bus transfers from Tainan.
While specific numbers can vary, generally look for buses heading towards the Qishan District from major transport hubs in Kaohsiung. It's always best to confirm with local transport information or apps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Qishan Old Street is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander and explore the shops and food stalls.
Qishan Old Street is generally open throughout the day, with most shops and food stalls operating from morning until evening. It's most vibrant in the afternoon and early evening.
The street itself is free to enter. Any specific museums or attractions within the vicinity might have their own admission fees, but the main old street experience is complimentary.
Yes, it's possible to visit during holidays, but be prepared for significantly larger crowds. Visiting on a weekday is recommended for a less crowded experience.
No booking requirements are necessary for visiting Qishan Old Street itself. It's an open public space for exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic spots are the historic buildings with their unique baroque-style facades. The old train station area also offers charming photo opportunities.,
Absolutely! The vibrant food stalls, local life, and distinctive architecture make it a great location for street photography, especially during bustling hours.
Late afternoon and early evening can offer beautiful lighting for the historic buildings. However, capturing the lively atmosphere of the food stalls might be best during peak hours.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. However, always be respectful of individuals and private businesses when taking pictures.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both the architectural details and the street scenes. A wide-angle lens can also be great for the buildings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is anything banana-related, like banana ice cream, banana cake, and banana spring rolls. You'll also find a variety of other local snacks and delicacies.,
Yes, some reviews mention the availability of vegetarian restaurants, offering diverse food choices for different dietary preferences.
Expect a wide range of Taiwanese street food, including savory snacks, sweet treats, and local specialties. Banana-themed items are a highlight.,
Food prices are generally considered reasonable, especially given the variety and quality of the street food available.
Exploring the various food stalls is part of the fun! Look for stalls with longer queues, as they often indicate popular and delicious options. Trying the banana products is highly recommended.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Qishan
These structures are a significant draw for visitors interested in history and architecture, providing a unique visual experience distinct from many other old streets in Taiwan. The blend of Western architectural influences with local craftsmanship creates a captivating atmosphere. Walking through the street, you'll notice the merchant houses that once lined this bustling trade route. The architectural details, such as the Roman family crests and Byzantine influences mentioned in some observations, add layers of historical intrigue.
It's a place where history is not just read about but can be seen and felt in the very fabric of the buildings. This makes Qishan Old Street a fascinating destination for those who appreciate historical preservation and unique urban landscapes. While the main street is the focal point, exploring the surrounding areas can reveal more of Qishan's charm. The old train station, though no longer operational for passenger services, adds to the nostalgic ambiance.
The preservation efforts have successfully maintained the street's character, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone exploring the Kaohsiung region. A Culinary Journey Through Qishan's Flavors
Beyond the banana specialties, the street offers a wide array of traditional Taiwanese snacks and delicacies. You can find savory options like scallion pancakes, grilled skewers, and local stir-fries, as well as sweet treats and refreshing beverages.,
For those with dietary preferences, there are options available. Some reviews mention the presence of vegetarian restaurants, indicating that Qishan Old Street can cater to a broader range of visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit