Kaohsiung, Takao, Taiwan uses Asia/Taipei, currently CST (UTC+08:00). No clock changes are scheduled in the next 12 months.
Kaohsiung is one of the larger cities in Taiwan, with a population of about 2.7 million. Unlike many places, it does not observe daylight saving time.
The band below is your local scale — accent shows when everyone's business hours overlap. Add or remove a city on the left and this updates too.
Written for people arriving, calling in, or planning a trip around the time difference.
Districts near the harbor and main rail station put hotels within easy reach of dining and transit, while areas further from the waterfront offer a quieter, more residential pace. Given Kaohsiung's warm climate, proximity to shaded, walkable streets is worth considering.
Kaohsiung's harborfront and waterside parks are pleasant to explore in the cooler hours of morning or evening, since the city's subtropical climate brings consistent warmth. Cultural and arts districts near the port suit a relaxed afternoon visit.
A metro line and light rail loop cover much of the city, supplemented by buses and widely available taxis. Many visitors also rent bicycles to explore the flatter waterfront areas.
Kaohsiung stays warm year-round given its southern location, with winter generally the driest and most comfortable season for sightseeing. Summers are hot and humid, with an increased chance of typhoons.
Taiwan uses the TWD, calling code +886.
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan dollar, and Mandarin Chinese is the official language, with Taiwanese Hokkien also widely spoken, especially in southern Taiwan. A polite, low-key manner is generally appreciated.
