Want to learn more about Lotus Pond Kaohsiung? Blue Canoe is the place for Taiwan’s best local advice. Lotus Pond, an internationally acclaimed scenic area, even featured by CNN, isn’t your average park. Imagine a tranquil lake dotted with lotus flowers, surrounded by ornate temples whispering tales of ancient traditions. Sounds pretty amazing, right? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the easy ways to reach there and explore the magic of Lotus Pond!
How to Get to Lotus Pond Kaohsiung?
Source: khh.travel
Taking Kaohsiung MRT to Lotus Pond
Even though a transfer is involved, this is arguably the most convenient and affordable option! Take the KMRT Red Line and disembark at Zuoying Station. Exit 2 will lead you right where you need to be. A single MRT journey typically costs around NT$30-60 (around $1-2 USD) depending on your starting location. Once you get off KMRT, take the bus 301 or Red 51 to the Lotus Pond station (蓮池潭站). If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to the station staff, they should guide you to the right bus stop. You can also walk to Lotus Pond from here, but it might take a good 15-20 minutes.
Directions for Bus
If you are near a bus station already, we recommend you check if you are already on a bus route that brings you directly to Lotus Pond. Several bus routes stop near Lotus Pond Iincluding the 6, 17, 29, 31, 38, 219 buses, which all drop you off at “Zuoying North Station” (左營北站). Another option is to take green 38 to get off at Confucius Temple Station. These should cost you bus fare around NT$10-15 (around $0.50 USD).
Directions for High-Speed Rail (HSR) or Train (TRA)
If you are coming from outside of Kaohsiung City, good news for you! Lotus Pond is incredibly convenient to reach from High Speed Rail and Trains. Simply hop off that trains at Zuoying Station and follow the signs – it’s a walkable distance of about 10 minutes.
Directions for Car
Driving to Lotus Pond is definitely an option, Google maps or other navigation system should give you great guidance. In general, take National Highway 1 and exit at the Dingjin System Interchange. From there, hop onto National Highway 10 and then the Metropolitan Expressway. Be sure to get off at the Zhongshan Road exit. Once you’re off the highway, follow Xinzhuangzi Road until you connect with Shengli Road. Finally, follow Shengli Road until it reaches Lotus Pond Road, leading you straight to your destination. Finally, parking should not be too hard if you don’t visit when there are huge festivals or events. There are a couple large parking lots nearby and street parking should be generally available on weekdays.
Lotus Pond Kaohsiung Entrance Fee
Source: khh.trave
The beauty of Lotus Pond itself is completely free to enjoy! You can wander the serene paths, admire the colorful temples, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere without spending a dime. Even the most renowned Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are free to enter (we will talk about this particular architecture more in later sections).
Lotus Pond Opening Hours
Source: VR實景旅遊網
Lotus pond and the temples should be open 24/7. Daytime give you colorful views of the pond and temples. While night time has a totally different scenery and can be a lot cooler. Most people like to go during the daytime.
How Long Do You Need for Lotus Pond Kaohsiung?
Source: 自由網
As for how long you’ll spend at Lotus Pond, it really depends on your pace and interests. A leisurely stroll just around the lake could take an hour. While exploring all the temples and museums could easily fill half a day or more. We recommend spending at least 2-3 hours at Lotus Pond Kaohsiung. Let’s look at what are the temples at Lotus Pond!
What to Visit at Lotus Pond Kaohsiung?
Nestled in the heart of Kaohsiung’s Zuoying District, Lotus Pond (蓮池潭) is a tranquil oasis renowned for its abundant lotus blossoms and a plethora of temples that line its shores. With its harmonious blend of religious heritage, natural beauty, and exhilarating activities, Lotus pond is the must visit attraction of Kaohsiung for really good reasons.
One of the most important activity here is to visit the beautiful temples. Lotus Pond boasts an impressive collection of over twenty temples. This is one of the most densely populated temple areas in Taiwan. Among these, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (龍虎塔), Five Pavilions (五里亭), Spring and Autumn Pavilions (春秋閣), and Confucius Temple (孔廟) stand out as particularly noteworthy. We will talk about each of them in detail.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (龍虎塔)
Source: khh.travel
These iconic twin towers, constructed in 1976, symbolize the balance between yin and yang. Entering through the dragon’s mouth and exiting through the tiger’s mouth is said to bring good fortune. However, the interior of the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas is currently under renovation (as of 2024). This means you might not able to ascend the tower. Please check their website for the latest updates.
Stepping inside the Dragon Tiger Tower, you’ll be greeted by a captivating array of Cloisonné art. You will see the 24 Filial Exemplars, the Ten Kings of Hell, the 72 Confucian Disciples, and the 36 Guardians of Baosheng Dadi. Among these, the Hell Sculptures are particularly renowned for their graphic portrayal of gruesome punishments. These sculptures serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of wrongdoing.
Ascending to the 7-story-tower’s rooftop, you’ll discover a hidden gem, a breathtaking 360-degree views overlooking the serene Lotus Pond. The tower itself is connected to the shore by a meandering Nine-Bend Bridge. While the pond’s surface is adorned with a vibrant carpet of blooming lotus flowers, creating a breathtaking spectacle during peak season. Furthermore, the annual Lotus Pond Wannian Festival, held in October, transforms the area into a vibrant religious carnival. If you want to visit during this time, remember to come with public transportation and be ready for crowds!
Spring and Autumn Pavilions (春秋閣)
Source: khh.travel
Lying within Lotus Pond, the Spring and Autumn Pavilions represents the harmonious balance between the seasons. These octagonal pavilions, adorned with intricate Chinese architectural elements, are connected by a graceful nine-turn bridge. Each turn symbolizes the cyclical nature of time and the interconnectedness of all things.
As you approach the pavilions, your gaze is drawn to the majestic Guanyin statue. Its serene presence radiating an aura of peace and tranquility. Perched atop a majestic dragon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion embodies the divine power of compassion and guidance. According to local legend, this awe-inspiring statue miraculously appeared in the clouds, instructing its devotees to place it between the twin pavilions. This divine intervention further underscores the sacred significance of this site.
The preceding pond, teeming with dozens of graceful turtles, adds a touch of whimsy and longevity symbolism to the scene. These ancient reptiles, revered for their longevity and wisdom, symbolize the enduring nature of spiritual enlightenment. Their presence serves as a gentle reminder to embrace patience, perseverance, and the pursuit of inner peace.
Five Miles Pavilions （五里亭）
Source: khh.travel
A gracefully arched bridge connects the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, its walkway adorned with quaint, antique lanterns. This bridge gracefully leads to the Three-Tier Pavilion, aptly named “Five Miles Pavilion” (五里亭). This is a sanctuary of coolness particularly cherished during the summer months.
Legend has it that the Five Miles Pavilion was erected at the behest of a divine oracle. It is designated as a welcoming station for the descent of revered deities. Its name, “Five Miles Pavilion,” draws inspiration from the evocative poem “Mirror Threshold” by the renowned Tang Dynasty poet Li Shangyin. He penned the verse: “No mist for five miles, only the river seen in autumn.” This imagery perfectly captures the pavilion’s ethereal ambiance, often enveloped in a veil of mist during the early morning hours.
As dawn breaks, golden rays cast upon Lotus Pond. The Five Miles Pavilion emerges from the mist, resembling a celestial palace delicately perched upon the water’s surface. As dusk descends, the gentle glow of lanterns lining the embankment transforms the pavilion into an otherworldly haven. Ascending the stairs of the Five Miles Pavilion, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Lotus Pond. The pavilion’s vantage point showcases the splendor of Jiangnan’s garden architecture, with its intricate pavilions and elegant towers seamlessly blending into the verdant surroundings.
The North Pole Xuan Tian Shang Di Deity Statue (北極玄天上帝神像)
Source: shge.blogspot.com
Gazing serenely over Lotus Pond, the North Pole Xuan Tian Shang Di Deity Statue stands as a majestic symbol of faith and protection. This monument towers at an impressive 72 meters. It holds the distinction of being Southeast Asia’s tallest deity statue on water. The states holds an impressive sword, the Seven Star Treasured Sword. It stretches an imposing 38.5 meters. The statue exudes an aura of power and righteousness, embodying its role as a protector against evil spirits and a guardian of peace.
Visitors to the temple are warmly welcomed to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the deity. For those unfamiliar with the customs, helpful staff members are readily available to guide them through the process. Additionally, a selection of complimentary Buddhist scriptures and books is offered near the temple’s entrance. They provide visitors with an opportunity to deepen their spiritual understanding. The North Pole Xuan Tian Shang Di Temple serves as a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for the faithful, offering solace and spiritual nourishment to all who seek it.
Confucius Temple (孔廟)
Source: khh.travel
The Lotus Pond Confucius Temple stands as a majestic testament to the enduring legacy of Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher. Completed in 1976, this grand structure meticulously replicates the architectural style of the Song Dynasty Confucius Temple in Qufu, Shandong Province, the birthplace of Confucius. Stepping through the imposing 欞星門(Gate of Literary Stars), visitors are transported to a realm of tranquility and reverence. The temple’s layout unfolds in a series of courtyards. Each adorned with exquisite architectural elements that embody the harmony and balance central to Confucian teachings. The towering 大成門 (Gate of Great Perfection) leads to the heart of the temple. The 大成殿 (Hall of Great Accomplishment), where a majestic statue of Confucius presides over the solemn chamber.
The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from the life of Confucius and his disciples. While rows of inscribed tablets showcase the profound wisdom of Confucianism. As visitors wander through the temple’s courtyards, they are enveloped by profound respect and admiration for the sage’s teachings. The Lotus Pond Confucius Temple serves as a beacon of cultural heritage, preserving and honoring the enduring legacy of Confucius and his profound impact on Taiwanese society. It is a sanctuary for those seeking a reminder of the timeless values of education, virtue, and moral conduct.
Lotus Wake Park （蓮潭滑水主題樂園）
Source: PAO.CHUNG.HUI, CHSG Studio
Thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts should definitely spend somme time at Lotus Wake Park for a fusion of urban adventure and aquatic excitement. This one-of-a-kind water sports park is the first of its kind in Taiwan to feature an international-standard cable wakeboarding facility.
Since its grand opening in 2014, the Lotus Wake Park has welcomed over a million visitors. It welcomes those we are eager to experience the exhilaration of gliding across the water’s surface. A powerful overhead cable system propels a variety of waves. Whether you’re a seasoned wakeboarder or a curious novice. The park’s experienced and friendly instructors are here to guide you through the ropes, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience.
But the adventures don’t stop there! The Lotus Wake Park offers a diverse array of water activities to suit every taste and skill level. From the serene challenge of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) to the exhilarating rush of water tubing and the whimsical joy of the inflatable water carpet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re seeking a break from the ordinary and a chance to embrace the thrill of water sports. The Lotus Wake Park is your ultimate destination. Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting traveler, prepare to be captivated by the park’s infectious energy.
Best Time to Visit Lotus Pond
Source: walkerland
For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting Lotus Pond between May and October. During these warmer months, the pond comes alive with a breathtaking display of lotus blossoms, adding another layer of serenity to the landscape and creating a photographer’s paradise. While the vibrant Lantern Festivals of Kaohsiung typically illuminate the area with color displays from January to February, a different cultural experience awaits in mid-October. The Zuoying Wannian Folklore Festival, sometimes held at Lotus Pond, offers a glimpse into local traditions and celebrations. However, the exact dates for this festival might vary from year to year, so be sure to check the official schedule before your visit.
We hope this blog post has helped you with your trip to Lotus Pond! For more practical travel guides like this, please check out our other posts! If you also want to visit Pier-2 Art Center, check out are super detailed guide with our custom made map!