Areas to Avoid in Kaohsiung
Taiwan
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Kaohsiung. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Kaohsiung is generally Use Caution
1 area to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Xinjuejiang (New World), Zuoying District (near High Speed Rail), Gushan District (Sizihwan & Hamasen)
Travel Insurance for Kaohsiung
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Kaohsiung are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Industrial Zones (e.g., parts of Renwu District)
These areas are primarily industrial and offer little of interest to tourists, lacking attractions, accommodation, and dining.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Xinjuejiang (New World)
A bustling hub of youth culture, shopping, and street food, especially vibrant after dark.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Kaohsiung
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Kaohsiung Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Kaohsiung on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Kaohsiung Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Kaohsiung with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Kaohsiung: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Kaohsiung's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Kaohsiung: Scenic Excursion
Escape Kaohsiung for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Kaohsiung Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Kaohsiung's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Kaohsiung
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
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Book a guided tour
Explore Kaohsiung safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Xinjuejiang (New World)
A bustling hub of youth culture, shopping, and street food, especially vibrant after dark.
Generally safe due to constant crowds, but be aware of pickpockets in dense areas, especially at night.
Zuoying District (near High Speed Rail)
A modern district centered around transportation, offering convenient access to the rest of Taiwan and a growing number of amenities.
Very safe, with good lighting and moderate foot traffic around the station areas.
General Safety Tips for Kaohsiung
At Night
Well-lit in most commercial and residential areas. Tourist night markets and main streets remain active and safe. Exercise caution in less populated or industrial areas after dark.
Solo Female Travel
Kaohsiung is very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding dimly lit, isolated areas at night apply, but general safety levels are high.
Emergency Number
110 (Police), 119 (Fire and Ambulance)
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Kaohsiung
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxis (ensure meter is used or use ride-sharing apps).
- 2Fake tour guides or unsolicited help offering services at tourist spots.
Travel Insurance for Kaohsiung
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Xinjuejiang (New World)
A bustling hub of youth culture, shopping, and street food, especially vibrant after dark.
Generally safe due to constant crowds, but be aware of pickpockets in dense areas, especially at night.
Zuoying District (near High Speed Rail)
A modern district centered around transportation, offering convenient access to the rest of Taiwan and a growing number of amenities.
Very safe, with good lighting and moderate foot traffic around the station areas.
Gushan District (Sizihwan & Hamasen)
A charming coastal area blending historical sites, artistic flair, and scenic sea views.
Safe during the day and evening, with good lighting along the waterfront and moderate pedestrian traffic.
Cijin Island
A relaxed island getaway known for its seafood, lighthouse, and black sand beaches.
Very safe, especially during daylight hours. The ferry terminals and main paths are well-lit and populated.
Safety in Kaohsiung
Very safeSolo Female Travel
Kaohsiung is very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding dimly lit, isolated areas at night apply, but general safety levels are high.
At Night
Well-lit in most commercial and residential areas. Tourist night markets and main streets remain active and safe. Exercise caution in less populated or industrial areas after dark.
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Fire and Ambulance)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxis (ensure meter is used or use ride-sharing apps).
- 2Fake tour guides or unsolicited help offering services at tourist spots.
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