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Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
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Landmark
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, situated on the edge of Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, are iconic symbols of the city known for their bustling colors and traditional religious architecture. Completed in 1976, these two seven-story towers are connected to the shore by a bridge with nine turns, a design meant to ward off evil spirits which, according to folk belief, can only travel in straight lines. Visitors are encouraged to enter through the dragon's mouth and exit through the tiger's mouth, a ritual believed to transform bad luck into good fortune. The interior of the pagodas features vivid murals depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, heaven and hell, and the 24 stories of filial piety. From the top of each pagoda, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lotus Pond and the surrounding temple complexes. Especially beautiful at sunset, the pagodas reflect colorfully on the water's surface, attracting photographers and pilgrims alike who come to experience the site's spiritual energy and aesthetic grandeur.
- Location: Taiwan
- Top sights: Baixin clock · Shinyō Jinja Remains · Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
- Nearby: Tainan (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 33 | 27 | 37 | 56 | 183 | 303 | 287 | 436 | 240 | 76 | 53 | 34 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung are colorful, seven-story pagodas freely accessible. Visitors enter through the dragon's mouth and exit through the tiger's mouth - a symbol of good luck.
Typical hours
The pagodas are open 24 hours as they are outdoor structures and not locked. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting.
Photography
Photography is allowed anytime; the pagodas are a popular photo subject from outside and from the surrounding walkways. Try to capture the reflection in Lotus Pond, especially when the water is calm.
Time needed
Visiting the pagodas themselves takes only 15 to 20 minutes as they are small. However, allow half to one hour to explore the Lotus Pond surroundings including other shrines and bridges.
Combine with
Lotus Pond is located in Zuoying District, close to the Kaohsiung Confucius Temple and the old city wall. Combining it with the nearby breakfast market or Jihe Temple is worthwhile.
Getting there
Lotus Pond is reachable by metro (towards Gangshan) to Ecological District station (R22), then about 10 minutes on foot. Buses and taxis are also available.
Insider tip
Walk through the pagodas in the correct order: enter through the dragon, exit through the tiger to maximize luck. Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Geography
Facts
- Built in 1976 as part of the Ciji Palace expansion.
- The towers represent the concept of 'turning bad luck into good'.
- The murals inside the dragon represent the '24 Filial Exemplars'.
- The tiger's mouth leads to depictions of the '12 Magi'.
- The zigzag bridge is a classic feature of Chinese garden design.
- The site is free to enter, though donations for temple upkeep are common.
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Sights in the town Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (11)
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Frequently asked questions
How to visit the pagodas correctly?
Enter through the dragon, exit through the tiger.
Does the visit cost anything?
Usually, a small donation is appreciated.
Is the place easily accessible?
Yes, centrally located at Lotus Pond.
Is there shade there?
Limited, bring a hat.
When is the best time?
Very impressive at sunset.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: where is it located?
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas is located in Taiwan.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Baixin clock, Shinyō Jinja Remains, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: why is it worth visiting?
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, situated on the edge of Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, are iconic symbols of the city known for their bustling colors and traditional religious architecture.
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