By Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported
The municipal historic site of Fort Xiongzhen Beimen in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, is one of three historical artillery forts in the Takao area. For years, it has been under military control and off-limits to the general public. After coordination between the Kaohsiung City Government’s Urban Development Bureau and the military, it is now fully open. A viewing platform was constructed using methods that do not damage the fort’s structure. Visitors can experience the spectacular sight of large ships entering port from the very front line of Kaohsiung Harbor’s First Port, as well as enjoy distant views of the Qihou Lighthouse on Qijin Island.
The reopened Fort Xiongzhen Beimen will be an ideal spot to watch large ships enter the harbor. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Government Urban Development Bureau)
Originally called Takao Port, Kaohsiung Harbor was the second-largest port in southern Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty, after Anping Port. Following the Mudan Incident, Fort Xiongzhen Beimen was built in the first year of the Guangxu reign (1875) alongside Qihou Fort to guard the harbor. The entrance of Fort Xiongzhen Beimen features a Chinese-style gate made of red bricks, with the inscription “雄镇北门” (Fort Xiongzhen Beimen) above the lintel. The front wall of the gun emplacement was constructed using the rammed earth method. In 1995, the Kaohsiung City Government designated it as a historic site, and it was restored in 1995.
Due to the naturally strategic high ground on both sides of Kaohsiung Harbor, the area around Fort Xiongzhen Beimen has long served as a key military post for harbor defense, leading to prolonged military control as a strategic artillery position. With the easing of its military role, the fort is now open to the public and will be connected to nearby attractions such as Xiziwan, the Former British Consulate at Takao, Shaochuan Street, and the Gushan Ferry Terminal. This enhances recreational options including seaside sunsets, ferry rides, and watching ships enter the harbor.
Not far from Fort Xiongzhen Beimen, the Former British Consulate at Takao offers sweeping views of Kaohsiung Harbor, Xiziwan, and the city skyline. (Photography by Travel Site Li Xinyi)
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