Things To Do
in Cishan

Cishan is a charming town in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, known for its rich agricultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush hills and offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can explore local markets, traditional architecture, and the scenic beauty of nearby mountains.

Cishan is also famous for its unique cultural festivals and vibrant community spirit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Cishan's Heritage
morning
:

Visit the Cishan Old Street, famous for its traditional architecture and local snacks.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the Cishan Agricultural Museum to learn about the region's farming history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in Hakka cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike the nearby hills for stunning views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the local tea plantations and participate in a tea tasting session.

evening
:

Relax at a local café while enjoying live music from local artists.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
Coffee$2
🍱Lunch Set Meal$5
🚌Local Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant markets.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I would like this
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Cishan

Visit one of these nice places.

Cishan Old Street

Captivating historical architecture and bustling market scenes make for great photos.

Cishan Agricultural Museum

Beautifully landscaped gardens and displays of agricultural history provide wonderful backdrops.

Tea Plantations

The rolling hills and lush tea fields create stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cishan

Cishan offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Cishan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hakka Popcorn Chicken

A crispy and flavorful snack made with marinated chicken pieces, fried to perfection.

Must-Try!

Cishan Rice Dumplings

Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with local ingredients, often served with soy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cishan Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a wide range of street food, snacks, and local crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cishan experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild and dry, with average temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, while autumn and spring offer pleasant temperatures and less humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, using polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cishan is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. Basic safety precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings are recommended. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are friendly and helpful.

Tipping in Cishan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service, usually rounding up the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid, ideal for enjoying water activities and the local night market.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting for hiking.

Winter

Chilly but manageable, visitors can enjoy quieter attractions and local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Cishan at Night

Cishan's nightlife is relaxed and community-oriented, with local bars and cafés offering live music and entertainment. The night market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, serving up delicious street food and vibrant atmosphere. For a more laid-back evening, many opt to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at one of the local tea houses.

Hiking in Cishan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cishan Trail

A moderate trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for a half-day hike.

Dakeng Trail

A more challenging hike with steep sections, leading to stunning vistas of the region and a rewarding experience.

Airports

How to reach Cishan by plane.

Kaohsiung International Airport

Approximately 30 km from Cishan, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cishan is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where shops, restaurants, and markets are located closely together. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances, especially to hiking trails and outlying attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hakka People

The Hakka ethnic group is prominent in Cishan, known for their unique language, culture, and culinary traditions.

Local Farmers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, contributing to the town's economy and cultural identity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Tai Chi

A popular form of exercise among locals, often practiced in parks during the morning.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and local communities, with many courts available for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cishan is generally light, with most residents using scooters or bicycles for transportation. Public transportation includes local buses, which connect the town to nearby cities, but may have limited schedules. Walking is a convenient option for exploring the town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cishan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to ensure no meat or seafood is included.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cishan is adequate, with several clinics and a local hospital available for emergencies. Most medical staff are trained and can communicate in basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide