Maolin

Maolin National Scenic Area is a sanctuary of ecological wonder and indigenous heritage. It is globally significant as one of the two major wintering sites for butterflies, specifically the Purple Crow variety. Every winter, millions of these iridescent insects migrate to the Maolin valleys, creating a shimmering purple haze that attracts naturalists from across the globe. Beyond the butterflies, Maolin is the ancestral home of the Rukai people. The village of Duo-na is famous for its unique stone slab houses and rich cultural traditions. Adventure seekers can cross the Duo-na Suspension Bridge, once the highest in Taiwan, or hike to the Dragon Head Canyon to see unique geological formations. The area's hot springs and waterfalls also provide a refreshing escape from the city. Access is best via Kaohsiung by car or organized tour. The butterfly season peaks from December to February. Summer is excellent for river trekking and enjoying the waterfalls. Sampling traditional Rukai stone-grilled meat is a highlight for food lovers.

Nearby cities

Chaozhou

A vibrant township in southern Taiwan, famous for cold shaved ice and fried spring rolls.

Donggang

A major fishing port in Pingtung County, famous for bluefin tuna and temple festivals.

Hengchun

Taiwan's southernmost township, home to historic city walls and Kenting National Park.

Pingtung

A tropical city in the south, characterized by a rich agricultural culture.

Xiaoliuqiu

Taiwan's only coral island, famous for its high density of green sea turtles and year-round warm waters.

Orchid Island

A remote volcanic island, home to the indigenous Tao people, known for flying fish and traditional underground houses.

Zhiben

East Taiwan's premier hot spring destination, nestled in lush forests and steeped in indigenous Puyuma culture.

Chiayi

A historic city in central Taiwan, serving as the gateway to the scenic Alishan mountain region.

Taitung

A relaxed coastal city in eastern Taiwan, strongly influenced by indigenous cultures.

Douliu

The administrative capital of Yunlin County, famous for pomelos and historic streets.

Kaohsiung

A major port city in the south, known for the Love River and the Pier-2 Art Center.

Taibao

A quiet county seat in Chiayi County, home to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum.

History & landmarks

Kenting National Park

A popular national park located at the southern tip of Taiwan, known for its white sandy beaches and tropical climate.

Alishan National Scenic Area

A high-altitude mountain resort known for its breathtaking sunrises, seas of clouds, and historic forest railways.

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

A massive Buddhist temple complex and museum that houses a significant tooth relic of the historical Buddha.

Lotus Pond

An artificial lake in Kaohsiung, surrounded by numerous colorful temples, pavilions, and statues.

Chishang

A picturesque township in the East Rift Valley, famous for its premium rice and endless paddies without power lines.

Pier-2 Art Center

Former abandoned warehouses in Kaohsiung transformed into a vibrant hub for modern art and design.

Nature

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Alangyi Coast

One of Taiwan's few remaining pristine coastlines, famous for its round pebble beaches.

Gaoping River

The Gaoping River is the longest river in southern Taiwan and supplies water to a large agricultural plain.

More places

Beidawushan

Taiwan's southernmost 3,000-meter peak, famous for its dense seas of clouds.

Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park is located at the southern tip of Taiwan and offers white sandy beaches and tropical coral reefs.

Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant

Taiwan's third nuclear power plant, located at the southernmost tip of the island.

Dajianshan

A distinctive rocky peak in Kenting National Park, often referred to as the Matterhorn of the South.

Eluanbi Lighthouse

One of the few armed lighthouses in the world, located at the southernmost point of Taiwan.

Guanshan

One of the most prominent peaks in the southern section of the Central Mountain Range.

Jade Mountain (Yushan)

Jade Mountain is the highest point in Taiwan and a major landmark attracting mountaineers from around the world.

E-DA Theme Park

A Greek-inspired theme park in Kaohsiung with numerous rides and entertainment options.