Taiwan tourism receives praise from readers? CNN’s “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung” makes headlines again

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Previously, Kaohsiung’s bike paths were selected by CNN as one of Asia’s top five cities ideal for cycling, and the Formosa Boulevard Station of the Kaohsiung MRT was also recognized as one of the world’s most unique metro stations — clearly, Kaohsiung’s tourism highlights have earned strong international acclaim; now (22nd), CNN has once again featured its previously published “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung” on the front page of its travel section, showing that themed travel content about Taiwan is very well received by readers.


▲ Today (22nd), CNN has once again featured its previously published “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung” on the front page of its travel section. (Photo / Provided by Kaohsiung Tourism)

On January 14, CNN published “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung,” and just one week later, it brought the same topic back to the front page — showing that “Taiwan tourism” themed content is quite popular with readers. The top reason CNN listed for loving Kaohsiung is its vibrant night markets, “Golden Diamond” and “Triumph,” which not only have numerous vendors but also offer an incredible variety of delicious street food. Beyond night market eats, Kaohsiung’s must-try snacks include Gangshan lamb hot pot, Yuanshijie free-range chicken, seafood from Xingda Harbor and Cijin, and Hakka cuisine from Meinong — all beloved by both domestic and international travelers.

With scenic spots like Lotus Pond that resemble traditional ink paintings, its pavilions and towers caught the attention of CNN reporters. Following the tradition of entering through the Dragon Tower and exiting through the Tiger Tower is believed to bring visitors great luck. Among must-visit attractions, CNN also listed Kaohsiung’s Tianliao Moon World, Meinong, and Cijin, offering opportunities to experience local customs and cuisine.

Kaohsiung’s public art showcases a unique urban aesthetic — the yellow Transformer sculpture and works featuring workers and fishermen at Pier-2 Art Center are among the must-see highlights. Formosa Boulevard Station is hailed as the most beautiful MRT station in Taiwan, and its “Dome of Light,” created by Italian master Narcissus Quagliata, is the world’s largest single-piece glass artwork, also listed as a must-see attraction.

When it comes to Kaohsiung, you can’t forget the astonishing popularity of the Rubber Duck, which drew over 3.9 million visitors across Taiwan. CNN noted that compared to those in Taoyuan and Keelung, Kaohsiung’s duck was the long-lasting and healthy one. CNN also teased that the Rubber Duck will make another appearance in Kaohsiung this year.

Additionally, CNN highlighted Kaohsiung’s creative street culture — from the cheeky “18+ only” adult-themed restaurant to a lottery shop displaying large collectible figures of Iron Man, Batman, and Superman — all showing that Kaohsiung is a vibrant and creative city. CNN’s “10 Reasons to Love Kaohsiung”: South Taiwan’s largest night market, fresh local cuisine, the Dragon-Tiger Tower tradition, unique adult-themed restaurants, Taiwan’s most beautiful MRT station, public art, the culturally rich Pier-2 Art Center, Moon World and other must-visit sights, creative lottery shops, and the Rubber Duck.