Gushan Ferry Pier Viewpoint is the most direct way to experience the atmosphere of Kaohsiung Harbor, via a ferry crossing to Cijin that takes only about 5 minutes. Departing from Gushan Pier, the ferry crosses the main harbor channel, passing close to massive cargo vessels with the Kaohsiung Harbor Bridge sweeping into view, and the pier plaza itself is a popular photography spot for viewing Cijin Peninsula.
The Gushan–Cijin ferry crossing takes about 5 minutes and is operated by the Kaohsiung City Shipping Corporation, running from 05:00 to 02:00 the next day; departures come every 5 to 7 minutes during peak hours (about 06:00–09:00 and 16:00–19:00) and every 10 to 15 minutes off-peak, with a standard fare of NT$40 and a NT$10 surcharge for bicycles.
Highlights of Gushan Ferry Pier
Gushan Ferry Pier is located in Gushan District adjacent to the historic Hamasen neighborhood, and is the most important terminal in Kaohsiung Harbor's public ferry system. The ferry line connects Gushan and Cijin with frequent departures throughout the day (every 10 to 20 minutes) at low fares. High ridership from daily commuters — rather than just tourists — keeps the ferry feeling lively and authentically local.
The ferry pier plaza faces Cijin Peninsula with a wide-open view that frames the Cihou Lighthouse hill, the silhouette of Cihou Mountain, and the arc of the Kaohsiung Harbor Bridge in a single composition — a richly layered scene for photography. In the evening, the setting sun shines in from the west across the water, and the interplay of golden reflections and vessel silhouettes in the port creates the most beautiful time of day at Gushan Pier. Bicycles can be brought aboard the ferry; riding up to Cijin is a popular local leisure activity.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- Take the MRT Orange Line to Yanchengpu Station (O2) and walk to Gushan Ferry Pier — about 10 minutes; Sizihwan Station (O1) is also within walking distance.
- Ferries run all day; fares and last departure times are set by the Kaohsiung City Government Ocean Bureau. Service is suspended during typhoons.
- Bringing a bicycle requires a supplementary ticket; oversized items in baskets are restricted — check the pier notices.
Nearby Connections
- From Gushan Pier it's about a 10-minute walk to Hamasen Railway Cultural Park. The two combined make a half-day harbor and railway history itinerary.
- After the ferry to Cijin, continue to Cihou Lighthouse, the fort, and Cijin Beach for a scattered-spot itinerary covering the whole island.
Source: Kaohsiung City Government Ocean Bureau Gushan ferry route information and Gushan District tourism guide. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Gushan to Cijin ferry ride?
The crossing takes about 5 minutes, making it Kaohsiung Harbor's shortest and most iconic waterborne route.
How much does the ferry cost?
A standard ticket is NT$40, a discounted ticket NT$15, a student ticket NT$25, with an NT$40 surcharge for scooters and NT$10 for bicycles.
Until what time does the ferry run?
Service runs from 05:00 to 02:00 the next day, with departures every 5 to 7 minutes during peak hours.
Sources
- 票價及航班時刻 - 高雄市輪船股份有限公司 — 航程時間、票價、班次查證
- 鼓山-旗津航線 - 高雄市輪船股份有限公司 — 營運時間查證