Shoushan Nature Park | Kaohsiung Attraction

Shoushan — also known as Chaishan — sits right alongside central Kaohsiung yet retains a complete coral-reef limestone ecosystem and hosts a large population of Formosan macaques. The trail network climbs from the base to the ridge, passing striking rocky terrain along the way. From the ridgeline, Kaohsiung Harbor and Sizihwan are laid out in full view, offering a rare "wild space within a bustling city" experience.

Highlights of Shoushan Nature Park

Shoushan was formed by the uplift of ancient coral reefs, giving it a unique geology of porous, erosion-sculpted rock faces. The entire area is a designated Kaohsiung City Nature Reserve — collecting any plant or animal is explicitly prohibited. Formosan macaques thrive here in large troops, and visitors can observe them at close range, but feeding them is strictly discouraged, as it disrupts their natural behavior and creates risks for both people and monkeys.

The park has multiple trails of varying difficulty. Easy routes reach viewpoints in about 30–45 minutes; more demanding paths lead deep into the forest for birdwatching. Birdlife is richest in winter and spring. The open ridgeline offers simultaneous views of Kaohsiung Port, Qijin, and Lotus Pond in the Zuoying direction. After sunset, the city lights shimmer below, creating a completely different atmosphere.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

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Know the macaque rulesDo not feed them, avoid direct eye contact, and put all food away in your bag. Macaques may approach on their own — simply keep your distance and observe calmly.

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Morning is coolest for hikingKaohsiung summers are sweltering in the afternoon. Go early in the morning or at dusk, and bring plenty of water — at least 1.5 liters per person in summer.

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Winter and spring for birdwatchingOctober through April offers the best birding conditions, including raptors such as the crested goshawk. Bring binoculars.

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Ridgeline at sunset for harbor viewsHead to the ridgeline viewpoint at dusk: Kaohsiung Harbor, Qijin, and the 85 Sky Tower skyline all fit in one frame, layered in rich evening light.

Practical Information

Getting There & Timing

Driving: parking is available near Shoushan Zoo or the trailheads, but spaces fill up fast on weekends. Public transit is recommended.
Take the MRT Orange Line to Sizihwan Station, then walk approximately 15–20 minutes to the main trailhead.
Open year-round with no set closing time, but plan to descend before sunset — trail lighting is inadequate at night.

Nearby Connections

Sizihwan Beach and the British Consulate at Takao are right at the foot of the mountain — easy to visit after descending.
Hamasen Railway Cultural Park is about 10 minutes by car from the trailhead, making it easy to combine into a half-day culture-and-nature itinerary.

Sources: Kaohsiung City Shoushan Nature Park Management Office; Wikipedia entry on Shoushan Nature Park. Photos pending Dio's own photography.

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