Last Updated on 12-30-2023
The Love River, also known as “Ai He” in Chinese, is a significant waterway in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Originating in the Renwu District of Kaohsiung City, the Love River flows through the city and has become one of its major rivers, often referred to as the “Mother River” of the city. With a total length of approximately 12 kilometers, the river passes through various administrative districts such as Zuoying, Sanmin, Gushan, Yancheng, Qianjin, and Lingya.
The Love River holds historical significance as it has witnessed the growth and transformation of Kaohsiung. Its scenic beauty, along with the various bridges and landmarks that span its course, contributes to the charm of the city. Visitors can enjoy romantic boat rides, take in the beautiful night views along the riverbanks, and explore the vibrant atmosphere of the Love River area.
Introduction to Love River
The Love River, flowing through Kaohsiung, is often regarded as the city’s motherly embrace. Stretching approximately 16.4 kilometers, the river winds its way through the heart of the city, serving as a picturesque attraction. Lined with lush riverside parks on both banks, the Love River offers a peaceful respite in the urban environment. It has been transformed from a once-polluted waterway to a beloved location for leisurely walks and various cultural events.
How to get to Kaohsiung’s Love River
Love River, which spans a total of 12 kilometers, is divided into several sections including Heart of Love River, Love River Scenic Area, and Glory Pier.
Transportation to the Love River Heart: Get off at the R12 station on the Red Line of the MRT and it’s just a 5-minute walk.
Transportation to the Love River Scenic Area: Get off at the O4 station (City Council) on the Orange Line of the MRT and it’s a 9-minute walk.
Recommended Hotels near Love River
Silks Club
Silks Club in Kaohsiung is a premium establishment that offers a luxurious and elegant stay experience. Strategically located near the Love River, this hotel provides a perfect base for exploring the beautiful attractions surrounding the area. The Love River, an iconic landmark in Kaohsiung, offers a serene and picturesque environment for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and relaxing moments by the waterfront. With its illuminated bridges and vibrant atmosphere, the Love River area becomes especially enchanting during the evening hours.
SAYO Hotel
SaYo Hotel in Kaohsiung offers a comfortable and stylish accommodation experience in the historic and artistic Salt District. This modern hotel provides a cozy and well-appointed space for both business and leisure travelers. One notable destination is the Love River, which is just a short walk away. This iconic river features scenic pathways along its banks, offering visitors a chance to enjoy leisurely strolls while taking in picturesque views. The Love River area is also known for its lively atmosphere, waterfront cafes, and cultural events. Whether you’re interested in exploring art, enjoying local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the river, SaYo Hotel’s proximity to Love River ensures that you’ll have a memorable and enjoyable stay while experiencing the vibrant charm of Kaohsiung.
You can find more accommodations in Kaohsiung by searching on our official website.
Attractions along Love River
Great Harbor Bridge
Great Harbor Bridge is a remarkable landmark located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It is recognized as the first horizontal rotating bridge in Taiwan and is also the longest cross-harbor rotating bridge in Asia. The bridge is characterized by its pristine white structure, resembling the wings of an angel. The unique feature of the Great Harbor Bridge is its horizontal rotation capability, which adds a touch of wonder to the bridge’s design.
Every day at 3:00 PM and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7:00 PM, the Great Harbor Bridge performs its rotating opening show, captivating onlookers with its graceful movement. Since its completion and opening in 2020, the bridge has become a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience its innovative design and enjoy its stunning views.
The Pier2 Art Center
The Pier-2 Art Center located in Yancheng District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a vibrant art center that has transformed from abandoned warehouses into a hub for artistic and cultural expression. This transition from an industrial city to a service city prompted the transformation of the warehouses into an arts center.
The center is composed of several distinctive warehouses, each with its own unique character, and it has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. With various art exhibitions, installations, and creative activities, the Pier-2 Art Center embodies the fusion of art and culture in the heart of Kaohsiung’s Yancheng District. Through its evolution, the center has preserved the memory of the city’s industrial past while embracing its role as a dynamic platform for contemporary creativity and artistic exploration.
Heart of Love River
Heart of Love River is a picturesque area situated along the Love River in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. This charming location has gained recognition for its romantic ambiance and beautiful views, especially during the evening hours when the lights along the riverbanks illuminate the surroundings, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Love River’s revitalization has turned it into a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the riverbanks, taking in the serene waters and the reflections of the city lights. The area also features parks, cafes, and spaces where people can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Glory Pier
Glory Pier officially known as “Kaohsiung Port Pier No. 13,” is situated at the confluence of the Love River and Kaohsiung Harbor, in the district of Lingya, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. This pier holds historical significance as it used to be a vital location for transporting military personnel and supplies to Kinmen (Golden Matsu) during wartime. After fulfilling its military role, it was renamed the “Glory Pier” and transformed into a recreational and tourism area.
The transformation of the former military pier into a tourist attraction showcases Kaohsiung’s efforts to repurpose historical sites for public enjoyment. The area surrounding the Glory Pier offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for leisurely walks, photography, and relaxation by the waterfront.
Gondola Ride
Gondola Ride at the Love River in Kaohsiung offers a delightful and unique way to enjoy the charm of this romantic city. Modeled after the traditional Venetian gondolas, these boats are a fusion of cultural experiences, blending the essence of Italy’s iconic gondolas with the picturesque views of Kaohsiung’s Love River.
This unique experience allows both locals and visitors to enjoy the magic of a Venetian-style gondola ride without having to travel to Italy. The Gondola River Boat experience combines elements of cultural appreciation and relaxation as passengers glide along the river, taking in the scenic beauty of Kaohsiung’s Love River and its surroundings. This experience is perfect for couples, families, and friends looking for a touch of romance and an opportunity to enjoy the serene ambiance of the Love River.
Kaohsiung Music Center
Kaohsiung Music Center is a significant cultural and entertainment landmark located in the heart of the Asia New Bay Area in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Formerly known as the “Ocean Culture and Pop Music Center,” it officially opened its doors in late 2021. This expansive center spans an area of approximately 11.89 hectares and is situated between the Glory Pier Station and the True Love Pier Station of the Kaohsiung Light Rail. The center is designed to be a hub for pop music and cultural events, bringing a touch of international flair to the city.
Designed by a collaboration between Spanish and Taiwanese architectural teams, the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center features various performance spaces that cater to different audience sizes and preferences. Among its notable features is the Whale Wave Tower, an iconic architectural element that resembles a large sound wave. The center’s architecture harmoniously blends with the surrounding urban landscape, creating a stunning visual presence in the city.
Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica
Holy Rosary Cathedral Minor Basilica is an iconic and historic Catholic church located in the Lingya District of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. With its impressive blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles, the cathedral stands as a testament to the rich religious heritage of the region. The cathedral is situated near the Love River, adding to its serene and picturesque ambiance.
Throughout its long history, Holy Rosary Cathedral has undergone various renovations and restorations, solidifying its position as a landmark of faith and architectural beauty in Kaohsiung. Its blend of architectural styles, intricate details, and religious significance make it a must-visit attraction for those seeking to explore the cultural and religious heritage of Taiwan
Overall, the Love River is not only a physical waterway but also a symbol of Kaohsiung’s culture, history, and development. It has evolved from a simple transportation route to a cherished part of the city’s identity, offering both locals and tourists a unique and enjoyable experience.
