White lighthouse with black-domed lantern room and arched entrance surrounded by landscaped walkway in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Last Day in Kaohsiung: Exploring Cijin Island and Farewell Views

By | | EAST ASIA, SOLO TRAVEL, TAIWAN, TRAVEL

This is the final chapter of my Taiwan, Two, Three… (2025 Series). Thank you for following along on this short but unforgettable journey. As my time in Kaohsiung comes to a close, I’m savoring the last sights, sounds, and moments of this beautiful city—until the next adventure begins!

📅 Travel Dates: November 14–18, 2025

Morning Reflections

The last day of my stay in Kaohsiung had arrived. After catching up on some blog edits, enjoying a cup of coffee, and chatting with a fellow traveler at the accommodation, it was time to check out. Despite the limited time (and a heavy backpack), I managed to squeeze Cijin Island into my itinerary. I had wanted to visit this place back in 2023, but the storm had foiled my plans. So, on my last day, I fulfilled this longtime promise to myself.

Entrance to Gushan Ferry Pier in Kaohsiung, Taiwan with wave mural, ticket machines, and scooters parked nearby
At Kaohsiung’s Gushan Ferry Pier, waves painted across the entrance welcome travelers—where scooters line the street, ticket machines hum, and ferries carry stories across the harbor.

From Formosa Boulevard Orange Line Station, I took the MRT to Hamasen Station (formerly Sizihwan Station). The familiar grounds greeted me as I made my way toward Gushan Ferry Pier. After entering the waiting area, I boarded the ferry. The gentle sway of the boat and the cool sea breeze instantly relaxed me as we set off for Cijin Island. The stunning views of Kaohsiung Harbor and the city skyline from the ferry were truly breathtaking.

Crossing the Water to Cijin Island

Cijin Island is a popular tourist destination off the coast of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It’s known for its sandy beaches, historic sites, vibrant murals, and delicious seafood. Visitors can take a ferry from Gushan Ferry Pier in just a few minutes, with Kaohsiung Port visible along the way. Although I didn’t have time to explore all the popular spots, I had my eyes set on the Cijin Island Lighthouse.

Colorful SA‑YO Hotel boat docked at Kaohsiung harbor with multiple windows, life rings, and air conditioning units
Moored in Kaohsiung’s harbor, the SA‑YO Hotel boat transforms the waterfront into a floating retreat—colorful decks, life rings, and calm waters welcoming travelers to stay by the sea.

A Colorful Surprise Along The Way

When we reached the island, passengers disembarked—some with their motorbikes—creating a mini roll-on/roll-off moment. I followed the crowd out of the waiting area and was immediately surprised! The island was laid-back, with streets lined with colorful murals, locals on bicycles and motorbikes, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Cylindrical storage tanks painted with colorful underwater murals of fish, squid, and seaweed at Kaohsiung harbor in Taiwan
At Kaohsiung’s harbor, industry meets imagination—storage tanks transformed into giant canvases, alive with fish, squid, and seaweed swimming across their ocean‑blue murals.

Cijin Lighthouse: A Quiet Constant by the Sea

As I neared the lighthouse, the gentle sea breeze caressed my skin. The view of mainland Kaohsiung was breathtaking, and the lighthouse itself was stunning.

Scenic view of Kaohsiung city with green hill, waterfront promenade, and skyline of tall buildings under clear blue sky in Taiwan
Kaohsiung unfolds where sea and skyline meet—lush hills, winding promenades, and a rising cityscape blending natural beauty with modern vibrance.

To my amusement, my last day in Kaohsiung included a bit of hiking! The trail up was peaceful, accompanied by the soothing soundtrack of crashing waves.

Brightly painted urban neighborhood with pink, blue, yellow, and green buildings, church with cross, and coastline in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Kaohsiung’s hillside neighborhood bursts with color—pink, turquoise, and gold facades rising beside a church spire, overlooking the sea in a joyful mosaic of urban artistry.

Cijin Island Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of the island, was built in 1883 during the Qing Dynasty and is still operational today.

White lighthouse with black lantern room, arched entrance, and landscaped walkway under clear blue sky in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Kaohsiung’s white lighthouse rises with timeless symmetry—arched windows, a black lantern, and sunlit gardens guiding both ships and stories along Taiwan’s coast.

Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Taiwan Strait and Kaohsiung Harbor. Standing there, I felt grateful to have stumbled upon this hidden gem on my final day.

Collage of four photos from the Taiwan lighthouse exhibit, including entrance door, illustrated lighthouse panel, historical hallway display, and map of lighthouse locations
Inside Taiwan’s Lighthouse Exhibition, history unfolds—doors etched with beacons, illustrated panels of ships and towers, and maps tracing the guardians of the coast.

It doesn’t chase ships. It doesn’t shout directions. It simply stands there, doing its job—patient, reliable, and quietly luminous.

White lighthouse with black-domed lantern room and arched entrance surrounded by landscaped walkway in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Standing tall in Kaohsiung, this white lighthouse with its black-domed lantern and arched doorway guides both ships and stories—an elegant blend of maritime function and architectural grace.

Knowing there was a lighthouse on Cijin Island, I didn’t hesitate. Some places you visit out of curiosity; others you return to because you know you’d regret missing them—especially on a last day.

Sailing Back with Gratitude

I returned to the port to wait for the ferry back to Kaohsiung. The sight of the Taiwan ROC Coast Guard ship reminded me of the importance of maritime security in the region. As I watched the locals fishing, I couldn’t help but appreciate their connection to the sea and their way of life.

Taiwan Coast Guard ship CG131 with lifeboats and exhaust smoke sailing near Kaohsiung cityscape
Patrolling Kaohsiung’s waters, the Coast Guard vessel CG131 sails with purpose—lifeboats ready, engines roaring, a symbol of Taiwan’s maritime vigilance.

Kaohsiung, Until We Meet Again

I stopped by Dream Mall for lunch before heading to Kaohsiung Airport. Watching the city pass by from the train window, I felt a mix of gratitude and melancholy. Dream Mall’s vibrant atmosphere and my delicious meal made me wish I could stay longer—but it was time to go.

Dream Mall plaza in Kaohsiung, Taiwan with glass commercial complex, amphitheater, film reel sculpture, and festive decorations
Kaohsiung’s Dream Mall plaza shines with cinematic flair—glass towers, a film reel sculpture, and festive garlands turning the city’s largest mall into a cultural stage.

As the train sped toward the airport, I reflected on the beautiful sights, the friendly people, and the unforgettable memories I had made in Chiayi and Kaohsiung. Leaving was bittersweet, but I knew these experiences would stay with me forever.

Taiwanese rice bowl topped with sunny‑side‑up egg, grilled chicken, spicy sausage, tofu strips, assorted meats, served with seaweed soup and yellow drink cup
A hearty Taiwanese rice bowl—sunny egg, grilled chicken, spicy sausage, and tofu strips—paired with seaweed soup and a bright yellow drink, a feast of flavor and comfort.
Taiwanese noodle soup with dark broth, leafy greens, scallions, side of shredded vegetables, and lychee fruit jelly drink on tray
A comforting Taiwanese noodle soup—rich broth, fresh greens, and scallions—served with crisp shredded vegetables and a sweet lychee jelly drink, a perfect balance of flavor and tradition.

“Travel is never a matter of money but of courage.” I always keep this quote in mind. My solo journey in Taiwan was another personal milestone—a life win of mine. I saved up for months to afford the trip, but the experience of exploring a new culture and stepping out of my comfort zone was priceless. It reminded me that taking risks and being brave can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences in life.

Welcome display at Kaohsiung International Airport with wooden slat wall, bilingual signage, glass diorama, and flight information board
Arrivals at Kaohsiung International Airport are greeted with warmth—wooden walls, a glass diorama, and bilingual signage welcoming travelers to Taiwan’s southern gateway.

Sometimes the best adventures are the ones that push you beyond your comfort zone. Travel is about courage, curiosity, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

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