Situated to the north of Kaohsiung City, Nanzih is one of its many districts, scattered with natural parks which provide a welcome oasis in this bustling port. The Houjin River weaves its way through the district, feeding the surrounding agricultural lands and fish farms before emptying into the South China Sea at the Yuan Jhong gang Wetlands.
Things to do in Nanzih District
The Youchang Forest Park lies at Nanzih’s heart, providing recreational facilities and walking trails around its picturesque lake, while the more extensive Kaohsiung Metropolitan Park sprawls along the district’s northern edge. Take a swim in the public pool, learn about the local ecology in the exhibition room and stroll through the vast forest.
Grab a bite to eat on the main commercial thoroughfare of bustling Dexian Road which is a short walk away. It’s packed with hot pot restaurants, milk tea houses and Taiwanese bakeries.
Mount Banping overlooks Nanzih and was once an important limestone quarry, its recently turned into a natural park and is a popular day hike from Taipei City. Follow the wooden walkway to its top to soak up the panoramic views across Kaohsiung City or explore the lakeside wetlands at its former quarry pit.
Want a dose of local history? Spend a day visiting the Yang Family Historical Residence to see Fujian’s typical Qing Dynasty housing style, with its exhibits and artefacts set around three clusters of buildings.
Getting around Nanzih District
Nanzi is connected to Kaohsiung’s city centre along the subway system, with stations scattered throughout the district and within close proximity to its major attractions. It also has its own railway station, offering direct train connections north to Tainan.