Striking atrium design takes center stage—Take an exclusive look inside Kaohsiung’s new train station

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

After nine years of construction, the Kaohsiung Railway Underground Project has gradually transformed many stations, both large and small. The new Kaohsiung Station began trial operations on June 20. One of the most eye-catching features upon completion is the station’s architectural design, with its exterior combining expansive greenery and its interior featuring a futuristic atrium canopy.

The new station was designed by the Dutch firm Mecanoo, integrating the functions of a train station, metro station, bus terminal, and coach station, along with dedicated lanes for taxis and bicycles. Mecanoo created a “green roof” using landscaping, allowing the spread-out turf to resemble a large tree and connecting various modes of transportation.

The station lobby of the new terminal has been designed as a public space, where farmers’ markets, flea markets, open-air theaters, and mobile libraries will be held. Inspired by traditional temple-front plazas, the lobby aims to create a modern version of the classic temple square.