Kaohsiung sits in the far south of Taiwan, close to the Tropic of Cancer, and the climate is warm for most of the year. There is no cold winter in the sense a northern visitor would expect, which means the question is not so much when to avoid the cold as when the heat, the humidity and the rain suit you. This guide breaks the year into seasons and explains what each one means for sightseeing, ferries, night markets and day trips.
Autumn: the most comfortable choice
From roughly October into December, the humidity drops, the skies are often clear and sightseeing becomes pleasant at any hour. It is the best all-round time for a first visit. Lotus Pond, Cijin Island and the Pier-2 warehouses are at their most enjoyable, the hilltop views from the British Consulate and Shoushan are clearer, and a Kenting day trip is at its best. Autumn is also a good time for cycling the seafront. Prices for hotels can be firmer on weekends, so book ahead if you are visiting around a holiday period.
Winter: mild and dry
From about December to February the south stays mild compared with the north of Taiwan, with plenty of sunshine and much less rain. Mornings and evenings can feel cool, so carry a light jacket, but beach and park days remain possible. This is an excellent season for Monkey Mountain walks, Meinong and Fo Guang Shan, and for the night markets, where the cooler evenings make the crowded lanes less sticky. Lunar New Year, which falls between late January and mid-February, changes the picture. Many family-run shops and some restaurants close for several days, while temples are busy and transport is crowded, so reserve trains and rooms well ahead and keep your plans flexible.
Spring: warming up
March to May brings rising temperatures, a mix of sun and showers and gradually rising humidity. It is a good time for the countryside, because Meinong and the hills around it are green. Walking is still comfortable in the mornings and late afternoons, though midday can already feel hot. Bring sun protection and a compact umbrella, which doubles as shade.
Summer: hot, humid and stormy
From roughly June through September, expect heat, strong sun and heavy afternoon downpours. Midday sightseeing outdoors can be exhausting, so move your outdoor plans to the early morning and late afternoon, and use the middle of the day for the museums, the Dome of Light, an air-conditioned meal or a cafe stop. Summer has its pleasures: shaved ice and fresh mango are at their best, the sea is warm for swimming and snorkelling in Kenting, and night markets stay lively late into the evening. Carry water, wear light breathable clothes and take things slowly.
Typhoon season
The typhoon season runs through the summer and into early autumn, with the peak in the warmer months. Most visits pass without incident, but a storm can close ferries, cancel day tours, shut parks and pause public transport for a day or so. Local authorities announce suspensions, and hotels and tour operators will tell you what is happening. Build slack into your itinerary, avoid scheduling an unmovable commitment, such as a flight home, for the day after a planned island or Kenting excursion, and consider travel insurance that covers weather disruption.
What to pack
Light cotton or quick-dry clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent for parks and ponds, comfortable walking shoes and a compact umbrella suit nearly every month. Add a light jacket for winter evenings and for the strong air-conditioning in museums, trains and shops. Dress modestly at temples, with covered shoulders and knees, and avoid slippers at Fo Guang Shan.
Matching sights to seasons
The warmer months suit the museums, the Love River cruise at dusk, the night markets and the beach. The cooler months suit Monkey Mountain, Lotus Pond, the Former British Consulate and long walks along Pier-2 and the harbour. Kenting is rewarding in all seasons, though summer weekends bring crowds. Ruifeng Night Market is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays whatever the season, and several attractions keep a weekly closing day, so check before you set out.
The short answer
If you can choose, come between October and early December, or in the dry winter months outside Lunar New Year. If summer is your only option, go anyway, start early, rest in the middle of the day and enjoy the evenings when the city comes alive.
