Zuoying Old City Kaohsiung
Explore the historical Fengshan County Old City and the vibrant Lotus Pond, a blend of ancient fortifications and iconic Taiwanese temples.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Zuoying Old City Kaohsiung
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historical Fengshan County Old City and the vibrant Lotus Pond, a blend of ancient fortifications and iconic Taiwanese temples.
"A must-visit for history buffs and photographers, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's past and stunning temple architecture."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the old city and surrounding attractions. :athletic_shoe:
Visit Lotus Pond Early
Beat the heat and crowds at Lotus Pond for the best photos and a peaceful experience. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old City Walls and Gates
Zuoying District
Step back in time exploring the remnants of the ancient Fengshan County Old City walls and gates.
Lotus Pond
Adjacent to Zuoying Old City
A picturesque urban oasis featuring iconic pagodas, temples, and dragon-shaped entrances.
Yuandi Temple
Lotus Pond
An impressive Taoist temple dedicated to the God of the North, known for its intricate architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Getting Around Zuoying
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the old city and surrounding attractions. :athletic_shoe:
Visit Lotus Pond Early
Beat the heat and crowds at Lotus Pond for the best photos and a peaceful experience. :camerawithflash:
Explore by Bike
Rent a bike to easily navigate between the old city and Lotus Pond attractions. :bicycle:
Look for Historical Markers
Many sites have informative plaques detailing their history and significance. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the old city and surrounding attractions. :athletic_shoe:
Visit Lotus Pond Early
Beat the heat and crowds at Lotus Pond for the best photos and a peaceful experience. :camerawithflash:
Explore by Bike
Rent a bike to easily navigate between the old city and Lotus Pond attractions. :bicycle:
Look for Historical Markers
Many sites have informative plaques detailing their history and significance. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Zuoying Old City for its historical charm and the adjacent Lotus Pond's stunning visual appeal, particularly the iconic pagodas and temples. It's seen as a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape. Some find the historical remnants of the old city itself a bit sparse, but the overall experience is highly positive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Zuoying Old City is by taking the Kaohsiung MRT Red Line to Zuoying Station. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the main historical sites. Many visitors also find it convenient to combine a visit with Lotus Pond, which is easily accessible from the MRT station.
Yes, Zuoying Old City is very accessible by public transport. The Kaohsiung MRT Red Line's Zuoying Station is a major hub, connecting you to various parts of the city. Buses also serve the area, making it easy to explore Kaohsiung.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular and enjoyable way to explore Zuoying. You can rent bikes near Zuoying Station or around Lotus Pond. It's a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
The Kaohsiung MRT is highly recommended for inter-attraction travel. For example, you can easily reach the Dome of Light or Pier 2 Art Center from Zuoying Station. Taxis are also readily available.
Several bus routes serve the Zuoying area, connecting it to different districts of Kaohsiung. It's advisable to check local bus maps or use a navigation app for the most up-to-date route information upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general areas of Zuoying Old City, including walking along the old walls and gates, is typically free. Some specific temples or museums within the vicinity might have admission fees, but the historical site itself is open to explore.
The historical remnants of Zuoying Old City are generally accessible at all times, as they are outdoor historical structures. However, individual temples or nearby attractions may have their own operating hours, so it's best to check those separately if you plan to visit them.
While official guided tours might not be as common as in major international landmarks, you can often find local guides or information booths. Alternatively, many visitors enjoy exploring independently using online resources and historical markers.
Lotus Pond itself is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely wander around the pond and admire the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Yuandi Temple, and other structures.
The old city walls are generally accessible at night, but it's advisable to be cautious due to limited lighting in some areas. Visiting during daylight hours will offer better visibility and photo opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key historical sites include the remaining sections of the old city walls and gates, such as the East Gate (Dongmen). Exploring these remnants gives you a sense of the area's past fortifications.
Adjacent to the old city is the famous Lotus Pond, home to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Yuandi Temple, and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions. It's a beautiful area for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
Yes, Zuoying Old City and the surrounding Lotus Pond area are generally family-friendly. Children can enjoy exploring the open spaces, the unique architecture of the temples, and the visual spectacle of the pagodas.
The old city walls and gates offer historical architectural shots. Lotus Pond provides stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the colorful pagodas and temples reflected in the water. The golden hour is particularly beautiful.
To fully appreciate Zuoying Old City and Lotus Pond, allocate at least half a day. This allows time for exploring the historical remnants, enjoying the pond's attractions, and perhaps a leisurely bike ride.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the immediate vicinity of the old city might have limited dining options, you'll find plenty of eateries and local restaurants as you move towards the more commercial areas of Zuoying. Exploring nearby streets will reveal various Taiwanese cuisines.
Kaohsiung offers a vibrant food scene. Don't miss out on night market snacks like oyster omelets, stinky tofu, and bubble tea. Local specialties also include beef noodle soup and various seafood dishes.
Taiwan has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Look for establishments with vegetarian symbols or ask locals for recommendations. Many temples also offer vegetarian meals.
While Zuoying Old City itself is more historical, the broader Zuoying district and Kaohsiung city have numerous night markets like Ruifeng Night Market, which is a fantastic place to sample a wide variety of street food.
Eating in Zuoying can be very affordable, especially if you opt for local eateries and street food. Night markets offer a budget-friendly way to try many different dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The remaining sections of the old city walls and gates are excellent for historical photography. Look for unique architectural details and the textures of the ancient stone.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photographing Lotus Pond and its pagodas. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the temples are still impressive.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near historical sites. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the landscape and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens is great for the pagodas and city walls.
Photography rules can vary inside temples. It's best to look for signage or ask temple staff if photography is permitted, especially in areas with religious artifacts or during ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a family-friendly bicycle or a tandem bike to explore the area around Lotus Pond. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as exploring can be tiring, especially in warmer weather. The temples, while beautiful, are places of worship, so teaching children about respectful behavior is also a good idea.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For meals, skip the sit-down restaurants and head to local eateries or night markets like Ruifeng Night Market (though not directly in the old city, it's accessible). Street food offers delicious and inexpensive options. Walking or cycling around the area also cuts down on transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Zuoying Old City
Exploring the old city allows visitors to appreciate the architectural styles and defensive strategies of the era. While much of the original structure has been lost to time and development, the preserved sections, like the East Gate (Dongmen), stand as testaments to its former glory. The area's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Kaohsiung as a major port city.
Many visitors are drawn to the unique architectural elements that some theories suggest might have Moorish or Tartarian influences, though historical consensus points to traditional Chinese defensive architecture. Regardless of interpretation, the sheer age and resilience of these structures are captivating.
Exploring the Wonders of Lotus Pond
Beyond the pagodas, the pond is dotted with other impressive religious sites, including the Yuandi Temple, dedicated to the God of the North, and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions. The colorful architecture, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere make it a photographer's paradise, especially during the golden hours.
Many visitors enjoy walking or cycling around the pond, taking in the scenic views and the lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape within the bustling city. The area is easily accessible from Zuoying MRT station, making it a convenient addition to any itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit