A day to explore Cijin Island, Taiwan

Cijin Island is a small island in Kaohsiung, just 15-minutes ferry ride outside the famous Kaohsiung Harbour. Although it is very small, this island has become a favorite destination for those visiting the city. The island is famous not only for historical and cultural sites, but also for the fresh seafood. Let’s explore it!

Qijin Town

Once off the ferry, you will find yourself pretty much in the centre of Qijin Town. The look and feel of the town immediately seems different from that of Kaohsiung. In fact, Qijin Town is actually the oldest part of Kaohsiung, having been founded by fisherman in the 17th century. One of the oldest sights in Cijin and all of Kaohsiung is the Cihou Tianhou Temple at the heart of the town. Dedicated to Mazu, a sea goddess quite popular in Taiwan, the humble temple was built in 1673.

Tianhou Temple

The culture and belief of the local people is clearly shown in the Tianhou Temple of Cijin Island. The temple can be traced back to 1673 and is known as Kaohsiung’s oldest temple. Long ago, a fisherman from Mainland China drifted to the island during a typhoon.

Since the island was discovered to be a lovely place, he invited others to crossover. Hence, the temple was built as a reminder of blessing given by Matsu, the sea goddess. The temple is beautiful with many ornaments and colorful carvings, and it is definitely worth visiting during the time in Cijin Island.

Sea Shell Museum

Much further down the beachfront is one of Cijin’s most popular attractions, the Sea Shell Museum. While the museum home to all sorts of sea shells is free to visit, that is not why people come here. Instead it is the various art installations scattered around the museum and park that draw people in. This is the kind of place where everyone wants to get their photo taken.

Qihou Fort

Head west out of town and you will find yourself at the foot of a hill of nature and at a fork in the road. There is no wrong path here, but if you head left you will arrive at the entrance to Qihou Fort.
This hilltop battery from the 18th century once protected the harbour entrance of Kaohsiung. The interior of the fort is quite bare and nothing special, but climb up onto its walls and be rewarded with stellar views to everywhere. From different sides you can see down along Cijin Island, along the coast to the north and best of all the full cityscape of Kaohsiung.

Rainbow Church

Instagrammers will love these next few attractions. Rainbow Church is not actually a place of worship but a colorful architectural feature located at Cijin Seaside Park. It consists of two structures standing next to each other where people can pose for photos with the ocean in the background. It is popular so be prepared to wait your turn.

See more: Top attractions you cannot miss in Kaohsiung, China

Source Internet