Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung
Name	Kaohsiung
Settlement type	Special municipality
Coordinates	22.6167, 120.3333
Subdivision name	Taiwan
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	Southern Taiwan
Leader name	Chen Chi-mai
Area total km2	2947.62
Population total	2778161
Population as of	2020
Population density km2	942
Timezone	National Standard Time
Utc offset	+8

Kaohsiung is a major city in Southern Taiwan, situated near the Taiwan Strait and bordered by the cities of Tainan to the north and Pingtung to the southeast. The city is home to the Port of Kaohsiung, one of the busiest ports in the world, and is a key hub for international trade with countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea. Kaohsiung is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world, including Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. The city is known for its natural beauty, with nearby attractions such as Sun Moon Lake, Taroko National Park, and the Kenting National Park.

Geography

Kaohsiung is situated in the southern part of Taiwan, near the Taiwan Strait and the Bashi Channel. The city is bordered by the Central Mountain Range to the east and the Chaozhou Plain to the west. The Gangshan River and the Donggang River flow through the city, providing water and supporting the local agriculture and industry. The city's geography is also influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ring of Fire, with nearby volcanoes such as Tatun Volcano Group and Guishan Island. The city's climate is subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers, similar to other cities in the region, such as Fukuoka, Busan, and Manila.

History

The history of Kaohsiung dates back to the Dutch colonial period, when the city was a major trading post for the Dutch East India Company. The city was later occupied by the Kingdom of Tungning and the Qing dynasty, before being ceded to Japan in 1895. During the Japanese colonial period, the city was developed as a major port and industrial center, with the construction of the Kaohsiung Harbor and the Taiwan Railways Administration. After World War II, the city was returned to China and became a major hub for the Chinese Nationalist Party and the Republic of China Armed Forces. The city has also been influenced by its proximity to other major cities in the region, such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong.

Economy

The economy of Kaohsiung is driven by its manufacturing and export-oriented industries, with a focus on shipbuilding, steel production, and petrochemicals. The city is home to several major companies, including China Steel Corporation, CPC Corporation, and Taiwan International Ports Corporation. The city's economy is also supported by its tourism industry, with attractions such as the Liuhe Night Market, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and the Lotus Pond. The city has also been influenced by its proximity to other major economic centers in the region, such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore. The city is also a key hub for trade with countries such as United States, Germany, and Australia.

Culture

The culture of Kaohsiung is a unique blend of Taiwanese culture, Chinese culture, and indigenous cultures. The city is home to several major festivals, including the Kaohsiung Lantern Festival, the Kaohsiung International Film Festival, and the Taiwan International Festival. The city is also known for its cuisine, which includes popular dishes such as stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. The city has also been influenced by its proximity to other major cultural centers in the region, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Tokyo. The city is home to several major museums, including the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, the National Science and Technology Museum, and the Taiwan Museum.

Transportation

The transportation system in Kaohsiung is well-developed, with a comprehensive network of highways, railways, and public transportation systems. The city is served by the Kaohsiung International Airport, which offers flights to destinations such as Taipei, Hong Kong, and Seoul. The city is also connected to other major cities in the region by high-speed rail, including Taipei, Taichung, and Tainan. The city's public transportation system includes a metro system, as well as an extensive network of bus routes. The city is also a major hub for shipping and logistics, with the Port of Kaohsiung being one of the busiest ports in the world.

Education

The education system in Kaohsiung is well-developed, with a comprehensive network of primary schools, secondary schools, and universities. The city is home to several major universities, including the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, the National Kaohsiung Normal University, and the Kaohsiung Medical University. The city is also home to several major research institutions, including the National Science Council, the Academia Sinica, and the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research. The city has also been influenced by its proximity to other major educational centers in the region, such as Seoul National University, University of Tokyo, and National University of Singapore. The city is also a popular destination for international students, with many students coming from countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea.

Category:Cities in Taiwan