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Qihou Fort
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historical-site
The Qihou Fort in Kaohsiung is a historic coastal defense fortification situated on the summit of Mount Qihou in the Cijin District. The fort was constructed in its current form in the 1870s under the direction of Shen Baozhen to guard the strategic entrance to Kaohsiung Harbor from foreign naval threats. A unique aspect of this fort is the blend of Western military design with traditional Chinese aesthetic elements. The brick walls feature decorative patterns such as bat motifs and Chinese characters signifying good fortune, which is rare for a military installation. During the Japanese invasion of 1895, the fort was heavily damaged by artillery fire but has since been restored to its former glory. Today, the fort provides visitors with spectacular panoramic views of Kaohsiung City, the bustling container port, and the open sea, while serving as a reminder of Taiwan's maritime defense history.
- Location: Taiwan
- Top sights: Star tunnel · Xizi Bay Beach Entrance · Entrance of Tunnel
- Nearby: Kaohsiung (4 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
Qihou Fort is an open-air historic site with walls and tunnels you can explore. Most parts are accessible to visitors, though some tunnels may be closed.
Typical hours
The fort is usually open during daylight hours, typically 9:00-17:00. Check for closures on rainy days or during maintenance.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the fort grounds. Use of selfie sticks might be restricted in crowded areas.
Time needed
A tour of the fort takes about 1 hour. Combine with a visit to the nearby lighthouse and Cijin Beach for a half-day.
Combine with
On Cijin Island, combine with the Cijin Lighthouse, the Wind Power Park, and the seaside market. Take a ferry from Kaohsiung to Cijin.
Getting there
Take a ferry from Kaohsiung's Gushan Ferry Terminal to Cijin. From the ferry terminal, it's a 10-minute walk or a short bike ride to the fort.
Insider tip
Visit late afternoon to see the sunset over the Taiwan Strait from the fort's viewpoint. Bring water and mosquito repellant for the walk up.
Geography
Facts
- The modern fort was completed in 1875.
- It was designed by British military engineers.
- The characters on the gate translate to 'Strong Barrier of the South.'
- The fort was originally equipped with four large Armstrong guns.
- The structure was damaged by Japanese naval fire in 1895.
- It was designated as a second-class historical monument in 1985.
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Sights in the town Qihou Fort (6)
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Frequently asked questions
What is Qihou Fort?
A historic fort on the coast of Cijin.
What does it offer tourists?
A wonderful view of the sea and historic architecture.
Is admission free?
Yes, access to the site is free.
How to get there?
By ferry from Kaohsiung to Cijin.
What is nearby?
Cijin Beach and a lighthouse.
Qihou Fort: where is it located?
Qihou Fort is located in Taiwan.
Qihou Fort: what is there to see?
Highlights include Star tunnel, Xizi Bay Beach Entrance, Entrance of Tunnel.
Qihou Fort: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Qihou Fort: why is it worth visiting?
The Qihou Fort in Kaohsiung is a historic coastal defense fortification situated on the summit of Mount Qihou in the Cijin District.
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