Formosa Boulevard Station is where Kaohsiung's Red and Orange metro lines cross, and it is home to the Dome of Light, a glass artwork created by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata. The work took about four and a half years to complete and is made of glass, coloured paint and light. It stretches across the station's central hall and tells a story of the cosmos through its stages of birth, growth, glory and dimming. Rankings by travel websites have placed the station among the most beautiful subway stations in the world, and it has become a must-see stop for visitors and a source of local pride. The dome is free to admire, and the station is open from early morning until just after midnight, so you can fit a visit in at almost any time. It also sits on the site of the Formosa Incident, which the station's entrances commemorate in their design, adding historical meaning to the colour.
What to see
Walk into the central concourse and look up. The dome is the focal point, but the station's four platform entrances are also decorated, using glass sheets over steel to suggest hands raised in prayer for long life. Take time to stand in different parts of the hall because the colours change with the angle and the light.
Photographs are welcome, but please keep walkways clear for commuters, and avoid blocking gates and stairs. Because the station is a working transit hub, the experience is part art and part everyday life, which is much of its charm.
Practical tips
The station operates from early morning to just after midnight, and the artwork is always on display in the hours that the station is open. Midday is usually calm, and rush hours are packed. If you want to look at the dome from inside the paid area, check the metro's current rules on entering the gates; a short ride to the next station and back is the simple way to see it from inside.
A shop and public restrooms are inside the station. Formosa Boulevard is also a handy interchange, so you will probably pass through it anyway on a trip between the harbour, the north and the airport.
Making it part of a day
The station is in the middle of the city, and Liuhe Night Market is within walking distance, so a pleasant plan is to see the dome in the late afternoon and walk to the market for dinner. It also sits close to several central hotels, which makes it a good first or last stop of the day. Allow thirty minutes to an hour. Families, couples and solo travellers all find it easy, and it is a nice option on a rainy day when outdoor sights are less appealing.
What to expect
The experience
A short look at a huge glass-and-light artwork in the heart of a working metro station, with decorated platform entrances and a shop and restrooms inside.
Best time
Mid-morning or early afternoon, when the hall is calm and natural light is good; avoid the commuter rush.
How long
Thirty to sixty minutes, or longer if you want photographs from several angles.
Tips
Keep walkways clear, check the metro's rules if you want to enter the gates, and pair the stop with a walk to Liuhe Night Market.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art and architecture fans and anyone who wants a quick, free highlight in the city centre.
- Families
- Easy and indoors, with a visual wow that children enjoy; watch them near stairs and gates.
- Couples
- Pair it with dinner at Liuhe Night Market for an easy, atmospheric evening.
- Pair with
- Liuhe Night Market, the Love River cruise and Pier-2 Art Center.
- Time needed
- Allow about an hour including photographs.
Good questions
Is the Dome of Light free?+
Yes, there is no charge to admire the artwork. If you want to see it from inside the paid area, check the metro's current entry rules or ride a short hop on the line.
Who made the Dome of Light?+
It was created by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata, who spent about four and a half years on the work. It was completed around 2009.
What are the station's opening hours?+
The station operates from early morning until just after midnight. The artwork can be seen during those hours.
How long do I need?+
Thirty minutes to an hour is plenty for a look and some photographs. Add time if you are meeting a friend or using the metro to continue your journey.
What is nearby?+
Liuhe Night Market is within walking distance, as are several central hotels. The Love River and Pier-2 are a short metro ride away.
