Top Things to See and Do on a Cijin Island Day Trip
Getting to Cijin Island
Cijin Island is a favorite getaway just off the coast of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. With sun, sand, and sea all in one spot, it’s perfect for a half-day or full-day trip. The island is easy to explore by bike, scooter, or on foot, making it a fun stop for every traveler.
The Ferry Ride Experience
Your adventure begins at Gushan Ferry Pier. A ticket costs only 15 NTD (about 0.50 USD), making it one of the cheapest and easiest rides in Taiwan. The ferry trip takes just 5–10 minutes, with refreshing sea breezes, sweeping harbor views, and soft Taiwanese music in the background.
Ferries run every 10 minutes from 5 a.m. until 2 a.m., so you’ll have plenty of chances to hop on board and start exploring everything Cijin Island has to offer.
Short on time?
How to Get to Gushan Ferry Pier?
Reaching Gushan Ferry Pier is simple. From Exit 1 of Sizihwan Station on the MRT orange line, it’s just a 5-minute walk. You can also reach it with an 8-minute stroll from Hamasen Station on the new LRT green line. Coming from Central Park or Yanchengpu MRT stations? Just take bus number 50, which goes directly to Gushan Ferry Pier.
Welcome to Cijin
Cijin greets you with sparkling blue seas, fiery sunsets, and sweeping coastal views. This island blends natural beauty with rich history and delicious local food, making it the perfect escape in Kaohsiung. Get ready to uncover its hidden treasures.
Can I Stay Longer Than a Day on Cijin Island?
Yes, you can stay overnight on Cijin Island if you want more than a day trip. While the island is small and easy to explore in one day, spending extra time lets you soak up the beach atmosphere and enjoy more activities at a slower pace.
A popular choice is the In Young Hotel, a three-star stay in a great location close to the main attractions. With comfortable rooms and quick access to the beach, it’s perfect for travelers who want both relaxation and convenience. Whether you’re lounging on the shore or uncovering hidden gems, extending your stay makes the Cijin experience even better.
Exploring Cijin by Four Wheel Electric Bicycle
Right after you step off the ferry, you can rent a four-wheel electric bicycle near the 7-Eleven and start exploring Cijin’s lively streets. These bikes are fun, easy to ride, and perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants a relaxed ride without too much effort.
As you cruise along, you’ll pass local shops, markets serving delicious street food, and stalls with unique souvenirs. The coastline is the highlight, with Cijin Beach as a must-visit stop. For budget travelers, renting before boarding the ferry at the MRT station or ferry terminal is often cheaper than renting on the island. And don’t forget to pack sunscreen before heading out!
Travel Vlog From This Trip
Cijin Beach
Cijin Beach is a peaceful stretch of sand and sea known for its laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxation. The sound of waves and the cool sea breeze create a calm atmosphere, while the surrounding greenery adds to its natural charm.
It’s an ideal spot for families, friends, and couples, with plenty of space for beach games, sunbathing, and casual walks. As evening falls, the beach becomes the best place to watch the sunset as the sky glows with brilliant colors over the horizon.
Seafood at Cijin Beach
Cijin Beach is lined with seafood restaurants serving the freshest catch of the day. From grilled fish to flavorful seafood spaghetti, the dishes are straight from the surrounding waters and full of flavor.
This beach offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and great food. Whether you’re enjoying the ocean view or indulging in a seafood feast, Cijin Beach is a must-visit for travelers who love both nature and cuisine.
Cijin Shell Museum
The Cijin Shell Museum is about a 25-minute walk from Windmill Park or just 10 minutes by bike. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of more than 2,000 seashells and various land snails.
Admission is only 30 NTD (about 1 USD), making it a worthwhile stop to admire the diversity and beauty of marine life up close.
Cijin Windmill Park
Cijin Windmill Park is a scenic spot marked by tall wind turbines and steady ocean breezes. Located in the southern part of the island, it’s best reached by bike or scooter to avoid a long walk. The strong winds also make it a favorite place for kite flying.
At the entrance, street vendors sell colorful kites of all shapes and sizes. We chose a panda kite and had a great time flying it before gifting it to a little girl nearby. Watching her run with the kite, smiling with pure joy, turned our visit into a truly heartwarming experience.
The Rainbow Church
The Rainbow Church on Cijin Island was once known mainly as a wedding photography spot, but today it’s also a trendy Instagram destination. Its colorful design and seaside setting make it one of the island’s most unique photo locations.
When we visited, there was already a line of people waiting to take pictures. If you want your own shots here, plan to arrive in the late afternoon. Many visitors head to the church just before sunset to capture the perfect light for photos.
Cijin Seafood Market
Cijin Island is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Its lively market serves everything from fresh catches to cooked specialties. We tried the giant fried squid, and it was absolutely delicious!
The market is busiest around lunchtime, when long lines form at the most popular stalls. To enjoy a more relaxed visit, try coming outside peak hours.
Qihou Market
Qihou Market is another must-visit for food lovers. It’s filled with local delicacies, seafood, and traditional snacks. We sampled Taiwanese soup and fresh local tomatoes, which were bursting with flavor.
Many locals were buying tomatoes and eating them right away—a true local favorite that’s worth trying yourself.
Zhongzhou Guangji Palace
Zhongzhou Guangji Palace, also known as Kuangchi Palace, is the largest temple on Cijin Island, located just a 5- to 10-minute walk past the windmill park. This temple was built in honor of Ma Zu, the goddess of the sea, and attracts many tourists due to its stunning architecture that reflects the island’s culture.
Throughout the year, various festivals are held at the palace, drawing visitors who want to experience the vibrant celebrations. A visit to Zhongzhou Guangji Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Taiwan’s rich heritage and traditions.
Final Thoughts on Cijin Island
We made wonderful new friends on Cijin Island, sharing travel stories that made the day even more special. Meeting locals who offered tips and recommended must-see spots was a highlight of our visit.
Overall, our time on Cijin Island was unforgettable. If you ever find yourself in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, this charming destination is an absolute must-visit.
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