Kaohsiung: The Maritime Gateway of Southern Taiwan

Kaohsiung's railway history began with the completion of the Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) Western Line in the early 20th century during Japanese colonial rule. The railway connected Kaohsiung to Taipei and other key cities, establishing it as a vital link in Taiwan’s growing economy.

In 1908, the Kaohsiung Port Station became a pivotal node for transporting goods between the port and other regions. Over the years, Kaohsiung's rail network expanded to include both passenger and freight services, supporting the city’s industrial growth.

The opening of the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) in 2007 further solidified Kaohsiung’s role as a transportation hub, reducing travel time to Taipei to just 90 minutes.

Urban Transit: A Dynamic Network

Kaohsiung boasts a comprehensive urban transit system that includes a metro, light rail, and buses.

Kaohsiung Metro (KMRT)

The Red Line and Orange Line form the backbone of Kaohsiung's metro system:

• Red Line: Connects Kaohsiung International Airport in the south to northern districts like Zuoying, where the THSR station is located.

• Orange Line: Runs east to west, linking industrial zones with cultural and commercial districts.

Circular Light Rail (LRT)

Kaohsiung's Circular Light Rail, the first of its kind in Taiwan, connects waterfront attractions and cultural landmarks, such as the Pier-2 Art Center and Kaohsiung Music Center. This eco-friendly system promotes tourism while integrating with other transit modes.

Key Railway and Transit Highlights

• Zuoying Station (THSR and TRA):
  A major transportation hub where high-speed rail, conventional rail, and metro systems converge. The station also provides easy access to tourist sites like Lotus Pond and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.

• Formosa Boulevard Station:
  Renowned for its stunning Dome of Light, this KMRT station is not just a transit point but also an artistic landmark.

• Kaohsiung Port and Old Rail Lines:
  While freight rail once dominated the area, parts of the old tracks have been repurposed into cultural and recreational spaces, blending history with modern urban life.

Exploring Southern Taiwan by Rail

Kaohsiung serves as a gateway to many natural and cultural attractions:

• Kenting National Park: Accessible by bus from Zuoying Station, this tropical paradise offers pristine beaches and lush landscapes.

• Cijin Island: A short ferry ride from Gushan Ferry, Cijin is perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking coastal views.

• Tainan: Taiwan's oldest city, known for its temples and traditional snacks, is a quick ride on the TRA network.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its modern infrastructure, Kaohsiung faces challenges in expanding and optimizing its transit network:

• Increasing ridership on public transit, as private vehicles remain a popular choice for residents.

• Enhancing integration between metro, light rail, and buses to improve overall accessibility.

• Addressing congestion in urban centers as the city continues to grow.

Future plans include expanding the metro system, such as the yellow line and the red line extension, and improving connections to outlying districts, as well as promoting sustainable transportation solutions.