Kaohsiung Martyrs' Shrine — Attraction in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung Martyrs' Shrine, perched on Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) in Taiwan’s southern port city, stands as a solemn tribute to the nation's fallen heroes. Originally built during the Japanese colonial period as the Takao Kotohira Shrine, it was later transformed into a memorial site honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the Republic of China. Overlooking the bustling city and Kaohsiung Harbor, the shrine offers not only historical reverence but also panoramic views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The architecture reflects traditional Chinese palace-style design, complete with a grand staircase, red pillars, and a sweeping tiled roof. Inside, the shrine is adorned with commemorative plaques and incense burners, creating a tranquil atmosphere for reflection. Visitors often come to pay respects, light incense, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.

The Martyrs' Shrine also serves as a cultural and educational site, reminding visitors of Taiwan’s complex history and the valor of its defenders. The scenic setting, combined with the shrine’s historical significance, makes it a unique blend of natural beauty and patriotic symbolism. Whether visited for spiritual reasons or sightseeing, the Kaohsiung Martyrs' Shrine remains a poignant landmark, embodying the island’s enduring respect for courage...

The Kaohsiung Martyrs’ Shrine is a quiet and relaxing place to visit, located up on Shoushan, also known as Monkey Mountain. It’s a great spot to take a break from the city and enjoy some peaceful surroundings.

The shrine itself is beautiful, with traditional architecture and well-kept grounds. There’s also a fantastic view overlooking the harbor and city. If you go near sunset, it’s especially nice. There’s even a big LOVE sign and some monkey statues that add a fun touch.

It's a good place for a short walk or just to sit and take it all in. The area feels calm and a little tucked away, which makes it perfect if you're looking for a quiet moment.

Just a heads-up that there are sometimes stray dogs in the area. Most keep to themselves, but a few can be a bit unfriendly, so it’s best to keep...

(English version in below) 通常帶外地朋友來這鳥瞰高雄市景，都是來看夜景。晚上的燈火闌珊，配上港口閃爍燈光的景色，看了很令人放鬆，可惜現在手邊找不到照片。

第一次在夕陽時分帶朋友來忠烈祠，也很美，不過可惜因為被山擋住，沒能看到夕陽慢慢消逝在地平線的模樣（夕陽最佳觀賞地點還是在西子灣最舒適！）

建議開車上來，尤其若是晚上前往，因為沿路昏暗、部分路段沒路燈，開車比較安全喔！而且有幾次開車上山，路過好幾隻野狗跑出來狂吠...如果是騎機車，應該很可怕😱 ———- Amazing lookout for the city and the harbors. You get to see most of the famous landmarks in southern Kaohsiung from here - Ferris wheels, numerous harbors, Cijin Island, 85 Building, Pier 2, Convention Center, Pop Music Center, etc.

I usually come here at night. Could be windy, but it’s not too bad usually. As attached is the sunset here, which is beautiful, but you get a better view of it from Sizihwan Bay (which is 5 mins drive from here) as you can see the sun actually sinking into the sea there.

There are often mosquitoes here, especially in summer. If you plan to stay here for a bit, I’d recommend bringing bug/mosquito spray.

I recommend driving a car/taking an Uber up here, if you could. Riding a scooter or motorcycle up here is also fine, but I’ve encountered a group of stray dogs barking fiercely at us as we drove past them up to the martry’s shrine... can’t imagine being on a scooter and being in that position. Also, it’s quite dark without lampposts for some sections of the road winding up there, so having enough light for your...