Country | Taiwan, China |
Population | 7 |
Area | 2,951.85 km2 (1,139.72 sq mi) (4th) |
Time Zone | UTC+8 (National Standard Time) |
Coordinates | 22.61626, 120.31333 |
Highest elevation | 9 m (30 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Kaohsiung, officially Kaohsiung City, is a vibrant special municipality located in southern Taiwan. It spans a diverse landscape from the coastal urban center to the rural Yushan Range, covering an area of 2,952 square kilometers (1,140 square miles). As of October 2023, Kaohsiung has a population of approximately 2.73 million people, making it Taiwan’s third most populous city and the largest city in southern Taiwan.
The city’s origins trace back to the 17th century when it was a small trading village named Takau (or Takow). Over the centuries, it has transformed into the political and economic hub of southern Taiwan. Kaohsiung’s economy is powered by key industries such as manufacturing, steel-making, oil refining, freight transport, and shipbuilding. Its strategic importance is underscored by the Port of Kaohsiung, which is the largest and busiest harbor in Taiwan. The port handles more than 67% of the nation’s exports and imports container throughput, highlighting its critical role in Taiwan’s trade infrastructure.
Kaohsiung is also home to the second busiest airport in Taiwan by passenger numbers, Kaohsiung International Airport, ensuring the city is well-connected both domestically and internationally. The transportation network in Kaohsiung is extensive, with high-speed and conventional rail services linking it to other major cities, alongside several national freeways facilitating smooth road travel.
The city also hosts the Republic of China Navy fleet headquarters and its naval academy, further emphasizing its strategic military significance. In recent years, Kaohsiung has seen a surge in public works aimed at bolstering its cultural and tourism sectors. Notable projects include the Pier-2 Art Center, National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, and Kaohsiung Music Center. These developments have made Kaohsiung a significant cultural destination in Taiwan, attracting tourists and art enthusiasts alike.
Kaohsiung is classified as a “Gamma −” level global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, reflecting its growing influence and connectivity in the global urban network. The city’s infrastructure, cultural initiatives, and strategic economic importance make it a dynamic and essential part of Taiwan.
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