The Love River is the waterway that divides Kaohsiung in two, and it has been the city's romantic centrepiece for decades. The tourism board explains that the Love River Boat Company began in 1948 near the Zhongzheng Bridge, letting people row up and down the river, and the river became popular with local couples, which is how it got its name. Today the cruise is a gentle way to see the city from the water, passing renovated bridges that light up after dark, riverside walkways and the harbour entrance. The Love River Bay area also includes the striking Kaohsiung Music Center and the Love River Story House. The booking page for the excursion described here combines a river cruise with Lotus Pond and Cijin Island in one guided outing. It is a convenient way to cover three highlights without planning transport.
What to expect
The boat glides slowly between the banks, giving you a low-level view of the walkways, cafes and old buildings, with the bridges as the main visual feature. Evening cruises are the most atmospheric because the bridges and the riverside are lit up, while daytime trips are better for photographs and for avoiding crowds. The ride is short and calm, so it suits all ages. Check the weather and the boat schedule on the day, since services can change with conditions and the season.
The guided excursion
The tour offered through the booking page is a guided outing that combines Lotus Pond, Cijin Island and a Love River cruise, which makes it a good choice for first-time visitors with limited time. It is a single product, so you do not need to arrange separate taxis, and it can save time compared with doing each stop alone.
Because it covers several places, check the itinerary, duration and meeting point on the booking page before you commit, and confirm whether hotel pickup is included. If you prefer a freer day, you can visit the free sights yourself and use the tour for the cruise alone.
Making an evening of it
The river is close to Pier-2, the Cijin ferry and the Yancheng hotel area, so a classic plan is a walk through Pier-2 in the late afternoon, an early dinner by the water and a cruise as the lights come on. Afterwards you can stroll the riverside or head to Liuhe Night Market, a short ride away. Couples will find it romantic, families will enjoy the boat and the open walkways, and solo travellers get an easy way to see the city centre at a relaxed pace.
What to expect
The experience
A gentle boat ride along the Love River, offered through a guided outing that also takes in Lotus Pond and Cijin Island.
Best time
Evening, when the bridges and riverside are lit; daytime suits photography and a calmer pace.
How long
The guided outing runs for a half day; the river ride itself is short.
Tips
Check the itinerary and pickup details before booking, and confirm boat times for the day because services can change with weather.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and first-timers who want an easy, scenic introduction to the city.
- Families
- Calm and short on the water, with plenty of open walkways nearby.
- Couples
- The classic date-night ride, best as the lights come on.
- Pair with
- Pier-2 Art Center, Liuhe Night Market and Formosa Boulevard Station.
- Time needed
- Allow a half day for the guided outing, or about an hour for a river ride alone.
Good questions
Why is it called the Love River?+
The tourism board explains that couples were drawn to the boats that began running in 1948, and the name followed. It remains a popular spot for romance.
What does the booked tour include?+
The tour combines Lotus Pond, Cijin Island and a Love River cruise in one guided outing. Check the booking page for the exact itinerary and pickup.
When is the best time for a cruise?+
Evening is the most atmospheric because the bridges and the riverside are lit. Daytime is quieter and better for photographs.
Is the cruise suitable for children?+
Yes, the ride is calm and short, and the riverside has wide walkways. Follow the crew's safety instructions as usual.
What is near the river?+
Pier-2, the Kaohsiung Music Center and several hotels are close by. Liuhe Night Market is a short ride away.
