After my last visit in 2023, where storms and missed plans left me longing for more, I promised myself I’d come back. In 2025, that promise becomes reality. From scenic temples to lakeside pagodas, this journey is the kind that makes you fall in love with a place all over again. Join me as I wander, stumble, and rediscover Taiwan in ways I never have before. This blog is a continuation of my Taiwan, Two, Three… (2025 Series).
📅 Travel Dates: November 14–18, 2025
In my last Kaohsiung visit in 2023, I missed the Lotus Pond and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas because of a storm. I ended up chilling at Zhuoying HSR Station, eating a railway bento from 7-Eleven, feeling slightly disappointed. Little did I know that disappointment was a sign—a sign that I would return to Kaohsiung.
Fast forward to 2025… I was determined not to miss these iconic spots.
Getting to Lotus Pond
After a quick breakfast, I left the hotel early and took the MRT from Formosa Boulevard Station to Zuoying Station on the Red Line. From there, I hopped on Bus 301 heading to Lotus Pond. The bus station was near Xinzuoying Station, one of Taiwan’s major railway hubs. I considered walking (just 20 minutes only), but the bus arrived just in time.
After countless stops, I got off at Zuoying Market and began the walk towards Lotus Pond. Along the way, I passed several charming temples that hinted at the cultural treasures awaiting me.
Pei Chi Pavilion and Xuanwu (玄武)—The Dark Warrior of the North
My first stop was Pei Chi Pavilion, a striking lakeside shrine dedicated to Xuanwu—the Dark Warrior of the North and one of Taoism’s most powerful deities. Even from afar, the sight was captivating. Xuanwu stands tall and fearless, with a sword in hand. He looks out over Lotus Pond like a silent guardian, steady and watchful.
Pei Chi Pavilion sits directly on the water, connected by a long zigzag bridge that makes every step feel like part of a ritual. It’s a popular stop for visitors seeking blessings, but even if you’re just passing through like me, the quiet and the scenery invite you to slow down, breathe, and take it all in.
Spring and Autumn Pavilions
From Pei Chi Pavilion, I continued my walk toward the Spring and Autumn Pavilions—another highlight of the Lotus Pond area. Colorful, symbolic, and beautifully crafted, these twin pavilions feel like a quiet retreat from the busier parts of Kaohsiung. The closer you get, the more the intricate architecture begins to reveal itself: curved roofs, vibrant dragons, and delicate carvings that tell stories older than the city around them.
What I loved most is how everything connects so beautifully: Pei Chi Pavilion, the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and the Dragon & Tiger Pagodas all line the lakeshore like chapters in the same legend. Exploring them in one slow, steady walk made the entire experience feel magical and cohesive.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas—Enter the Dragon, Exit the Tiger
“Enter the dragon’s mouth and exit at the tiger’s mouth…” I repeated these words in my head as I approached the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Legend says this symbolic journey transforms bad luck into good fortune—a magical experience that draws travelers from around the world.
The seven-story pagodas sit proudly on the edge of Lotus Pond, linked by a traditional zigzag walkway. Inside, murals depict gods, legendary battles, and mythical creatures, immersing visitors in vivid Taoist tales.
As I climbed to the top, the panoramic view of Kaohsiung’s skyline left me breathless. The anticipation, the legend, the scenery—everything came together in a moment I won’t forget.
A Quick Break and a Taste of Kaohsiung
After temple hopping, I took a short detour to the Kaohsiung Bear Pop-up Store, mainly to escape the heat. I browsed but didn’t buy anything—hahaha! Feeling a little hungry, I stopped at Pamma Coffee, a spacious café near Lotus Pond. Although the meal was pricey, my tomato pasta was worth it.
After a quick lunch, I made my way back to the bus stop. It took almost an hour before the right bus finally arrived. Little did I know, if I had circled the pond instead, Xinzuoying Station would have been just a short walk away.
After a few minutes on the bus, I reached Xinzuoying TRA Station. That station connects directly to Zuoying HSR (high-speed train) Station.
It had been a while since I was last here, stranded in heavy rain, and the memories came flooding back. I looked around and decided to take a quick restroom break. That’s when I spotted a familiar stall—TRA Bento. My eyes lit up with excitement! I can’t explain why, but railway bento will always hold a special place in my heart as a railway fan.
I grabbed a chicken bento—yes, my second lunch of the day—and enjoyed it in the waiting area alongside the other passengers.
Next, I took the MRT Red Line to Aozihdi Station, then walked over to catch the LRT Circular (Green) Line, hopping off at Hamasen Station.
A Promise Fulfilled
Visiting Lotus Pond, especially the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, wasn’t just a bucket list checkmark. It was fulfilling a promise I made to myself—a promise to return to Kaohsiung, a city that captured my heart, mind, and soul.
Just like the LRT Circular Line, I know I will come back to explore more hidden gems and rediscover Taiwan in ways I never have before. Taiwan will always be “Time for Taiwan” for me—full of stories, legends, and moments that stay with the traveler long after the journey ends.
