Gushan Ferry Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide to Kaohsiung Historical Sites
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Gushan Ferry Station is a prominent maritime gateway in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, seamlessly connecting the lively Gushan District with the culturally rich and scenic Cijin Island. Beyond its role as a vital transportation hub, the station is steeped in history and serves as a springboard to many of Kaohsiung’s must-see attractions, including historical sites, beaches, art centers, and vibrant markets. With frequent ferry services, visitor-friendly amenities, and excellent access to public transit, Gushan Ferry Station is an essential stop for both tourists and locals exploring the city’s waterfront and its historical heritage.
This guide provides a detailed overview of Gushan Ferry Station’s visiting hours, ticketing procedures, access options, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips—ensuring you have all the information needed for a seamless and memorable visit. For the latest updates, always consult official resources like Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd. and Kaohsiung Travel.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Location and Access
- Ferry Operations & Ticketing
- Facilities and Accessibility
- Notable Nearby Attractions
- Special Events & Photographic Spots
- Practical Visitor Tips
- Alternative Transportation in Kaohsiung
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Important Contacts
- Safety and Regulations
- Conclusion
- References
Location and Access
Address: No. 17, Gushan 1st Road, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Public Transportation
- MRT: Take the Orange Line to Sizihwan Station (O1). It’s a 5–10 minute walk to the ferry terminal (Kaohsiung Travel).
- Bus: Multiple city bus routes stop nearby; check up-to-date schedules.
- YouBike: Bike-sharing stations are located close to the pier (Kaohsiung Travel).
- Taxi: Readily available across the city and can be hailed or booked via mobile apps.
Parking Information
Limited parking for cars and scooters is available near the terminal, but it fills quickly during weekends and holidays. Using public transportation is highly recommended (TravelSetu).
Ferry Operations & Ticketing
Ferry Routes and Schedules
- Main Route: Gushan–Cijin (primary and most popular)
- Other Route: Cianjhen–Zhongzhou (serving other parts of Cijin District) (Wikipedia)
- Operating Hours: Ferries typically run from 5:00 am to 2:00 am daily, with departures every 10 minutes. Official visiting hours for ticket offices are generally:
- Weekdays: 13:00 – 16:30
- Weekends & Holidays: 13:00 – 19:30
Always verify the latest schedule before your visit, as hours may change due to weather or operational needs (Kaohsiung Travel).
Ticket Prices and Payment Methods
- Foot Passengers: NT$30 cash; NT$20 with EasyCard, iPASS, iCash2.0, or Cijin Card (Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd.).
- Scooters: Additional NT$30
- Bicycles: Additional NT$20
- Children under 6 years or under 115 cm: Free
- Discounted Fares: Available for children (6–12), seniors (65+), disabled individuals, and one essential companion with valid ID.
- Group Policy: For government groups with three young children, one full-fare ticket is required.
Note: While electronic payments are widely accepted, carry some cash for use at Cijin’s markets and food stalls.
Bicycle and Scooter Policies
Bicycles and scooters are permitted on ferries for a small extra fee, making it easy to explore Cijin Island’s attractions or cycle along its coastal paths (TravelSetu).
Facilities and Accessibility
- Amenities: Covered waiting areas, public restrooms, staffed ticket office, vending machines, and nearby convenience stores.
- Accessibility: The station is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Discounted fares apply for eligible passengers and their companions (Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd.).
Notable Nearby Attractions
Cijin Island Highlights
- Cijin Old Street: Renowned for seafood restaurants, street food stalls, and souvenir shops (Hoponworld; Navitaiwan).
- Cijin Beach: Black-sand beach ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunset views (Taiwanderers).
- Cihou Lighthouse: 19th-century lighthouse with free admission and panoramic harbor views (Taiwanderers).
- Cihou Fort: Historic fortification with scenic overlooks (Taiwanderers).
- Cijin Star Tunnel: Illuminated tunnel adorned with murals, leading to dramatic seascapes (Taiwanderers).
- Rainbow Church & Coastal Art Installations: Colorful, Instagram-worthy public art (Hoponworld).
- Seafood Markets: Local markets and dried seafood stalls active in the early afternoon (Taiwanderers).
Gushan District & Surrounding Attractions
- Pier 2 Art Center: Contemporary art hub with exhibitions, outdoor installations, and weekend markets (Hoponworld; Nick Kembel).
- KW2 (Kaohsiung Port Warehouse No.2): Trendy warehouse space with boutiques, dining, and harbor views (Hoponworld).
- Hamasen Railway Cultural Park: Preserved railway heritage with interactive exhibits (Nick Kembel).
- Sizihwan Bay and Beach: Scenic area popular for sunsets, swimming, and coastal walks (Hoponworld).
- Former British Consulate at Takao: Heritage site, 5-minute walk from the ferry (Trek Zone).
- Takao Railway Museum: Historic railway museum nearby.
- Gushan Daitian Temple: Traditional temple within walking distance.
- National Sun Yat-sen University: Picturesque campus with hiking trails and ocean views (Nick Kembel).
Special Events & Photographic Spots
- Photo Opportunities: The ferry ride offers stunning views of Kaohsiung Harbor and skyline, especially at sunset.
- Events: Seasonal festivals and guided tours are occasionally available. Check local event calendars for updates.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Arrive Early: Especially on weekends and holidays to avoid long lines.
- Weather: Ferry services may be suspended in severe conditions; check forecasts.
- Cash: Many Cijin Island vendors only accept cash.
- Travel Light: There is no luggage storage at the terminal.
- Pets: Confirm policies with ferry operators in advance.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially for the upper deck.
- Camera: For capturing harbor and city views.
Alternative Transportation in Kaohsiung
- MRT: Red and Orange Lines, frequent service (Kaohsiung Travel).
- Light Rail Transit (LRT): Connects major districts.
- Sightseeing Bus: Open-top tours with multilingual guides.
- Love River Solar Boat: Scenic river cruises near the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Gushan Ferry Station visiting hours?
A: Ferries operate from 5:00 am to 2:00 am daily, with ticket offices open 13:00–16:30 on weekdays and 13:00–19:30 on weekends/holidays. Confirm current hours before visiting.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: NT$30 cash or NT$20 with EasyCard/iPASS for foot passengers; scooters/bicycles incur additional fees. Discounts and free rides are available for eligible groups.
Q: Is the ferry accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the station and ferry are wheelchair accessible, and discounted fares are offered.
Q: Can I bring my bicycle or scooter on the ferry?
A: Yes, for a small additional fee.
Q: Are guided tours or special events available?
A: Occasionally—check official websites or local visitor centers for updates.
Important Contacts
- Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd.
- Address: 7F, No.25, JhongJheng 3rd Rd., Sinsing Dist., Kaohsiung City 800012, Taiwan
- Tel: +886-7-226-2888 (Official Site)
- Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau
- Tel: +886-7-7995678 (Kaohsiung Travel)
Safety and Regulations
- Smoking, eating, and drinking are prohibited inside the terminal and on ferries.
- Supervise children, especially during boarding.
- Follow staff instructions for safe embarkation and disembarkation.
- Passengers are insured during the ferry ride (Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd.).
Conclusion
Gushan Ferry Station is a vibrant hub at the heart of Kaohsiung’s waterfront, offering visitors efficient access to Cijin Island’s cultural riches, stunning harbor views, and a wealth of historical and artistic attractions nearby. Its well-maintained facilities, accessible design, and affordable ticketing make it a welcoming gateway for all travelers. By planning ahead, using public transportation, and staying updated via official resources, you can enjoy a smooth, rewarding experience—whether you’re seeking culinary adventures, historical exploration, or breathtaking sunsets.
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References
- Gushan Ferry Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Kaohsiung Historical Sites (Kaohsiung Travel)
- Gushan Ferry Station: A Historical Gem and Essential Guide to Visiting Kaohsiung’s Iconic Maritime Hub
- Gushan Ferry Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Must-See Nearby Attractions in Kaohsiung (Hoponworld)
- Gushan Ferry Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Kaohsiung Historical Sites Guide (Triphobo)
- Kaohsiung City Shipping Co., Ltd.
- TravelSetu: How to Reach Cijin Island
