Shoushan Station

Shoushan Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Kaohsiung Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Shoushan Station (壽山公園站), a pivotal stop on the Kaohsiung Circular Light Rail Transit (LRT), stands as the primary gateway to Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) and a collection of Kaohsiung’s most treasured natural and historical sites. Nestled in the vibrant Gushan District, the station seamlessly connects visitors to ecological wonders, panoramic city views, and cultural landmarks, such as historic temples and the Kaohsiung Martyrs’ Shrine. The area, recognized for its unique coral limestone formations and rich biodiversity—including the endemic Formosan rock macaque—also preserves a deep historical narrative, featuring indigenous heritage, Japanese colonial-era structures, and the story of Kaohsiung’s urban evolution.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast eager for a scenic hike, a history buff seeking insight into Taiwan’s layered past, or a traveler wanting a blend of urban and natural experiences, Shoushan Station serves as the ideal starting point. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, accessibility, and highlights the cultural and ecological significance of Shoushan and its surrounding historical sites (Taiwan Everything, Kaohsiung Tourism Board, Kaohsiung Metro Official Site).

Shoushan Station Overview
Historical and Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours and Admission
Transportation and Accessibility
Hiking Trails and Activities
Cultural Landmarks and Community Identity
Practical Tips and Visitor Facilities
FAQ
Summary and Visit Tips
References and Further Reading

Shoushan Station Overview

Shoushan Station is strategically located at 46 Gushan 1st Road, Kaohsiung, serving as a main entry point to Shoushan National Nature Park and the surrounding historic neighborhoods. As part of Kaohsiung’s eco-friendly LRT, the station efficiently links tourists and locals to outdoor recreation, historical museums, art centers, and vibrant urban life (Moovit).

Location and Connectivity

LRT: Direct access on Kaohsiung’s Circular Light Rail Green Line.
Nearby MRT: Connect via Formosa Boulevard (Red/Orange lines) or Hamasen Station.
Bus Lines: 219A, 56, 88, and others serve the area.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Shoushan’s history traces back to indigenous settlements, followed by Qing and Japanese eras, each leaving their mark through ancient trails, shrines, and colonial structures (rtaiwanr.com). The mountain was crucial for military, industrial, and ecological reasons, with its coral limestone caves and forests protected for decades due to restricted access. Today, Shoushan National Nature Park preserves this heritage, offering visitors a window into both Kaohsiung’s natural evolution and its cultural resilience (taiwaneverything.cc).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Shoushan National Nature Park

Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM (main trails and park areas)
Admission: Free for general access. Some guided tours or cave explorations require advance booking and may incur a fee.
Shoushan Zoo: Separate hours and ticketing; check the official website for details.

Shoushan Station (LRT)

Operating Hours: Approximately 6:00 AM – midnight; check real-time schedules for exact times (Kaohsiung Metro Official Site).

Ticketing

LRT Fare: NT$30 single ride; use EasyCard or iPASS for convenience and potential discounts (Chloe’s Travelogue).
Guided Tours: Available through visitor centers; advance reservation recommended, especially during weekends or holidays.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting There

From Zuoying HSR or Kaohsiung Main Station: Take MRT Red Line to Formosa Boulevard, transfer to Orange Line, then switch to the LRT.
From Airport: Red Line MRT to Formosa Boulevard, then follow the route above.
By Bus: Direct routes (#56, #R32) serve trailheads and park entrances.

Accessibility Features

Shoushan Station and the LRT system offer:

Level boarding for wheelchairs and strollers
Elevators and ramps
Tactile paving for visually impaired
Bilingual signage (Chinese/English)

While the station and main park entrances are accessible, hiking trails may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges due to steep, rugged terrain.

Hiking Trails and Activities

Shoushan offers a diverse network of well-marked trails:

Main Shoushan Hiking Trail: 11.4 km loop connecting key viewpoints, tea stations, and observation decks (PeakVisor).
Longchuan Temple Trail: 6.16 km through ecologically rich zones (NNP.gov.tw).
Cave Exploration: Over 150 caves; some open by reservation with guided tours (eng.taiwan.net.tw).

Flora and Fauna

Plants: Over 800 species, including broadleaf forests and bamboo groves.
Wildlife: Formosan rock macaques, 100+ bird species, reptiles, and amphibians.

Note: Do not feed the macaques; maintain a respectful distance.

Cultural Landmarks and Community Identity

Temples: Qianguang, Faxing, and Yuanheng Temples support local religious life.
Kaohsiung Martyrs’ Shrine: Historic site with panoramic city and harbor views, plus the iconic “LOVE” sign—popular for photos.
Pier-2 Art Center & 228 Peace Memorial Park: Easily accessed from the South Entrance, blending nature with urban art and history.

Locals refer to Shoushan as the city’s “lung,” highlighting its environmental and cultural importance (rtaiwanr.com).

Practical Tips and Visitor Facilities

Facilities

Restrooms: Available at station and park entrances; limited deeper in the park.
Tea Stations: Along main trails for rest and refreshments.
Food: Nearby Gushan District offers night markets and local eateries; cash preferred.
YouBike: Bike-sharing stations for convenient local exploration (Nick Kembel).

Best Times to Visit

Climate: Tropical; average temperature 25°C. Best hiking conditions from October to April.
Hours: Early mornings recommended for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Safety and Etiquette

Carry water and essentials; vending options are limited inside the park.
Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection.
Stick to marked trails; do not approach or feed wildlife.
Leave No Trace: Take all trash out with you.
Greeting fellow hikers with “Ni hao” (你好) is customary and appreciated.

FAQ

Q: What are Shoushan’s and Shoushan Station’s visiting hours?
A: Shoushan Park: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM; LRT Station: ~6:00 AM–midnight.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Park entry is free; guided tours or cave access may require booking and a fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book through visitor centers or local agencies.

Q: Is the station accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, but hiking trails are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Q: What is the best season for visiting?
A: October–April for comfortable hiking and clear views.

Q: What transportation cards are accepted?
A: EasyCard and iPASS are accepted on LRT, MRT, and buses.

Summary and Visit Tips

Shoushan Station is much more than a transit point—it is the entry to a world of natural wonders, historical depth, and cultural vibrancy in Kaohsiung. Its strategic location on the Circular LRT, combined with accessible facilities and connections to major transit lines, makes it easy for visitors to explore Shoushan National Nature Park’s lush trails, endemic wildlife, and geological marvels. The area’s preserved temples, colonial relics, and integration with urban attractions like Pier-2 Art Center enrich the visitor experience.

For an optimal visit:

Plan ahead using the Kaohsiung Transit App or transit websites for real-time updates.
Arrive early to beat the crowds and midday heat.
Bring appropriate gear and respect local customs and wildlife.
Consider combining your visit with nearby museums, art centers, and food markets for a well-rounded Kaohsiung experience.

For the latest information, guided tour bookings, and local tips, check the Kaohsiung Metro Official Site and the Kaohsiung Tourism Board.

References and Further Reading

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