Gateway to Kaohsiung

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A Quick Guide to Getting Around Cijin Island

Cijin Island is a popular tourist destination just off the coast of Kaohsiung, Taiwan—a place where sun, sand, and sea come together beautifully. With quick and easy access by ferry, this hidden gem is perfect for a half-day or full-day getaway. Whether you choose to explore by bike, scooter, or on foot, you’ll discover plenty of interesting activities on the island. Our adventure begins as the ferry departs from Gushan Ferry Pier for a small fee of just 15 NTD (about 0.50 USD). The ride is smooth and pleasant, with the salty sea breeze refreshing and beautiful views stretching left and right. As you listen to soft Taiwanese music on the ferry, time seems to fly, and before you know it, the 5 to 10-minute journey ends, setting the stage for the incredible discoveries awaiting you on Cijin Island. Ferries run every 10 minutes, operating from 5 a.m. until 2 a.m.

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How to Get to Gushan Ferry Pier?

Getting to Gushan Ferry Pier is easy! It’s just a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Sizihwan Station on the MRT’s orange line or an 8-minute stroll from Hamasen Station on the new LRT green line. Here’s a handy map for reference. If you’re coming from Central Park or Yanchengpu MRT stations, simply hop on bus number 50, which will take you straight to Gushan Ferry Pier.

Welcome to Cijin, where the ocean sparkles, the sunsets light up the sky, and stunning coastal views transport you to another world. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering local cuisine, Cijin is a paradise just waiting to be explored. Are you ready to uncover its hidden treasures?

Cijin Island
Gushan Ferry Pier Taiwan
Cijin Island

Can I Stay Longer Than a Day on Cijin Island?

Yes, you can definitely stay on Cijin Island for longer if you’d like! While a day trip gives you plenty of time to explore the island since it’s not very large, a longer stay allows you to fully soak in the beach vibes and indulge in even more activities.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the In Young Hotel. This three-star hotel boasts a great location, putting you close to all the attractions you want to see. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to the beach, it’s a perfect spot for those wanting to relax and enjoy everything Cijin has to offer. Whether you’re lounging by the shore or discovering the island’s hidden gems, extending your stay will surely enhance your experience!

Cijin Island: A Hidden Gem for Food and Fun!

Once you arrive, you can rent a bike right by the 7-Eleven as you step off the ferry and kick off your adventure by pedaling through the lively streets of this charming destination. Along the way, you’ll find local shops and markets filled with delicious street food and unique souvenirs. The coastline features stunning beaches, with Cijin Beach being a must-visit. For budget-savvy travelers, consider renting a bike before boarding the ferry; rentals are available at the MRT station or ferry terminal and are often cheaper than renting on the island. And don’t forget to bring sunscreen!

Cijin Island
Cijin Island

To catch all the highlights of our adventure on Cijin Island, be sure to check out our vlog on YouTube!

Cijin Beach

Cijin Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand and sea, celebrated for its laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxation. As you stroll along the coast, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore and the refreshing sea breeze. Lush greenery surrounds the beach, enhancing the area’s natural beauty.

Ideal for families, friends, and couples, Cijin Beach offers plenty of space for beach games, sunbathing, and other activities. As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along the shore and watch the sunset paint the sky with a stunning array of colors as it dips below the horizon.

Cijin Island
Cijin Island

Fresh Seafood and Stunning Views at Cijin Beach

Cijin Beach is home to a variety of seafood restaurants where you can savor the catch of the day and fresh, delicious seafood straight from the surrounding waters. If you’re seeking a beach experience that combines natural beauty, relaxation, and mouthwatering cuisine, Cijin Beach is a must-visit. We indulged in the catch of the day and seafood spaghetti, and both dishes were simply delightful.

Cijin
Cijin

Cijin Shell Museum

Cijin Shell Museum is about a 25-minute walk from the windmill park or just 10 minutes by bike. This beautiful museum showcases an impressive mega collection of seashells, featuring over 2,000 different types. You’ll be amazed by the variety on display! There is a small entrance fee of 30 NTD, which is well worth it for the chance to see so many fascinating seashells and various kinds of land snails.

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Cijin Windmill Park

Cijin Windmill Park is a stunning destination featuring impressive wind turbines. Located further south, it’s best to rent a bike or scooter to avoid a long walk. This area is known for its strong breezes, making it a popular spot for kite flying.

Upon entering the park, you’ll encounter street vendors offering a variety of colorful kites. We couldn’t resist the charm of a panda kite and had a fantastic time flying it! We decided to gift it to a little girl who was crying to her mom to buy her a kite. Once we gave it to her, she accepted it with a big smile. It was heartwarming to see her running with the kite, radiating joy!

Cijin Island
Cijin Island

The Rainbow Church

The Rainbow Church on Cijin Island has long been a popular spot for wedding photography, and it has now transformed into a trendy Instagram destination. When we arrived, there were many people waiting in line to take photos. If you’re planning to snap some pictures here, consider visiting in the late afternoon, as many people flock to the church just before sunset for that perfect shot. The church is a one-of-a-kind wedding photography location, with its colorful and picturesque setting making it truly unique.

Cijin Island
Cijin Island

Qihou Market

Cijin Island is a top destination for seafood lovers, with its vibrant market offering everything from fresh catches to tasty cooked specialties. We couldn’t resist the giant fried squid—it was absolutely delicious! The market gets particularly busy around lunchtime, with long lines at some of the popular seafood spots. Visiting outside peak hours is a good idea to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Similarly, Qihou Market is a must-visit for foodies, featuring an array of local delicacies, seafood, and traditional snacks. We tried some Taiwanese soup and locally grown tomatoes, which were bursting with flavor. Locals were buying tomatoes and enjoying them on the spot—clearly a local favorite!

Cijin Island
Cijin Island

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.

Zhongzhou Guangji Palace

Meet new Friends

We also made some wonderful new friends on Cijin Island, exchanging travel stories that made the experience even more memorable. One of the highlights was meeting locals who shared insights about the island and recommended must-see spots. We had an incredible day exploring Cijin Island, and if you ever find yourself in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, a visit to this charming destination is an absolute must!

Cijin Island

ABOUT US

Hi there, we’re Lina and Dan, husband and wife, and adventure companions for over three decades! Since 2019, we’ve been traveling the globe on a special mission fueled by love and wanderlust, with a bucket list in hand… Tell Me More

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