Kaohsiung Lighthouse (Cijin Qihou Lighthouse) Introduction
Kaohsiung Lighthouse, formerly known as Cjhihou Lighthouse, was built in 1883 by a British engineer. It is unique in Taiwan as it is co-located with a fortress, a rarity in the country. With a history spanning over a century, it has witnessed the development of Kaohsiung Harbor. In 1987, the Ministry of the Interior designated it as a municipal historic site, and it has been open to the public since 1992. This is the only white octagonal brick lighthouse in Taiwan. The tower has an octagonal shape that transitions to a cylindrical form at the top, featuring a balcony for expansive views. In front of the tower stands a Western-style white-walled office that displays instruments previously used by the lighthouse, photos of the lighthouse, and location maps. The surrounding lush lawn also features a sundial. Despite being shot at during World War II, it remained operational, continuously illuminating the ships at sea and ensuring the safety of maritime traffic, making it historically significant. Standing at this historical high point offers a renewed appreciation for Kaohsiung Harbor! Kaohsiung Lighthouse is located at the highest point of Cijin. Although the area is not large, it provides a complete view of the Taiwan Strait and Kaohsiung City, allowing for glimpses of large ships entering the harbor and the magnificent golden sunset. Reflecting on the century-long history of this port city is a beautiful cultural journey. The Kaohsiung City Department of Transportation’s Harbor Bureau and Tourism Bureau have integrated new tourist information signs, protective railings, handrails with indirect lighting and street lamps, and enhanced landscaping with mixed forests. A café has also been introduced, which not only increases nighttime recreational safety but also extends tourist time to enjoy the sunset, the scenery of Kaohsiung Harbor, and the offshore views of Cijin day and night. It is also the only lighthouse park in the country that operates from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
