Horseback riding along the Love River? Kaohsiung’s mounted police squad is a striking sight

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Why are there people riding horses along the streets by the Love River? It turns out they are members of the Kaohsiung City Police Department’s Tourist Mounted Police Unit on duty. Every weekend and holiday, the mounted police patrol scenic spots such as the Love River, Chengcing Lake, and Qijin Coastal Park. Whenever the officers make an appearance on horseback, they quickly become the center of attention, drawing many tourists who specifically come to see them.

▲ You might spot the mounted police patrolling while viewing the Yellow Rubber Duck. (Photo / fromKaohsiung City Police Department Tourist Mounted Police Unit Facebook fan page)

The Kaohsiung Tourist Mounted Police Unit has been in operation for eight years. In addition to patrolling designated parks and tourist attractions to maintain public safety, the unit also assists members of the public with their inquiries. However, even more visitors ask to take photos with the officers. As many people are unfamiliar with the unit’s duties, the officers often have to explain their roles — for example, how horses allow for quicker and more efficient patrols across large scenic areas.

▲ Kaohsiung City Tourist Mounted Police Unit. (Photo / from Kaohsiung City Police Department Tourist Mounted Police Unit Facebook fan page)

The mounted police unit noted that they are on dutyevery Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at locations including Central Park, Weiwuying, Nong 16 Forest Park, the shores of Chengcing Lake, along the Love River, Jinshi Lake, Lotus Pond, the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, and Qijin Coastal Park.For those wishing to know the detailed patrol schedule, they can check theKaohsiung City Tourist Mounted Police Unit Facebook fan pagefor more information.