Attraction · Kaohsiung
Liuhe Night Market
A compact, easy-to-navigate night market near the city centre, strong on seafood, papaya milk and traditional snacks. It is less overwhelming than Taipei's biggest markets.
Photo: Zairon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
The visit
Liuhe is compact and easy to navigate, which makes it a good introduction to a Taiwanese night market. Come with an appetite and try a few small plates rather than one big meal. It is at its liveliest after seven.
History and context
One of Kaohsiung’s oldest central night markets, Liuhe grew with the post-war city. It is known for seafood, papaya milk and a compact, easy-to-navigate layout.
Liuhe took shape in the post-war decades as Kaohsiung grew into a major industrial city. It became one of the first night markets promoted to visitors, and its central location keeps it busy with both locals and tourists.
What to see
- Seafood stalls and grilled squid
- Papaya milk and shaved ice
- Compact central market
- Easy walk from Formosa Boulevard
Practical notes
- Allow about: 1.5 hours
- Type: food stop
- Destination: Kaohsiung
- Tickets: Free
- Best time: Evening
- Booking: Not needed
- Accessibility: Partial
Getting there
- MRT: Formosa Boulevard, exit 1 — 5 min walk
Good to know
Try the papaya milk and the grilled squid. The market is a short walk from Formosa Boulevard MRT station.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
Recommended duration: 1.5 hours.
When is the best time to visit?
Come in the evening, when the area is liveliest.
Do I need to book?
No booking is needed.
Location
Keep exploring
More places in Kaohsiung
Cijin Island
A narrow island across the harbour, reached by a five-minute ferry. Rent a bike, ride to the lighthouse and beach, and eat fresh seafood at the market near the pier.
TempleDragon and Tiger Pagodas
Two vividly painted pagodas rising from Lotus Pond, entered through a dragon's mouth and exited through a tiger's. The surrounding temples and pavilions make for a wonderful, slightly surreal walk.
CultureFo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
A monumental Buddhist complex built by the Fo Guang Shan order, with a 108-metre seated Buddha, museums, gardens and a pilgrimage hall. It is free to enter and deeply impressive.
ArchitectureKaohsiung Music Center
A swooping, wave-shaped concert hall on the harbourfront, designed by Manuelle Gautrand. The public terrace and surrounding plaza are a great place to watch the port at dusk.