KaohsiungPlay Recommendations

Aozihdi Forest Park in Kaohsiung's Gushan District spans roughly ten hectares and ranks as northern Kaohsiung's favorite inclusive family park. A forest-bird-nest design concept anchors the playground: a giant three-tower egg slide, nest-shaped climbers, a polished-stone mega slide, sandpit, splash zone, and ecological pond invite kids to picnic, play, and explore. The park is free and open year-round, an easy walk from the MRT, and pet-friendly — a lush green retreat where the whole family, two-legged and four, can cool off and discover together.

Half Moment Cat Cafe on the ground floor of No. 13 Mingzhe Road in Kaohsiung's Sanmin District is a cat-themed café blending artisan desserts with feline companionship. Around twenty-four cats of various breeds roam a dedicated interaction zone, letting guests pet and play while tucking into handmade sweets, coffee, and afternoon-tea sets. Signature desserts — caramel Basque cheesecake and apple-rose cinnamon rolls — rival standalone patisseries. The shop sits near Kaohsiung Arena MRT station and Aozihdi Forest Park, making it an easy and soothing stop for cat lovers and families.

Hamasen Railway Cultural Park in Kaohsiung's Gushan District occupies the site of Takow Station — Kaohsiung's first train station, built during the Japanese colonial era. The grounds preserve intact rail tracks, century-old carriages, a steam locomotive, and large-scale art installations. The free Old Takow Station Story House displays railway artifacts, scale models, and vintage tickets. Visitors can ride the park's Hamasen Express or Doodle Train for a short rail experience, then stroll to the nearby Pier-2 Art Center and Warehouse No. 2. A hit with families, railway enthusiasts, and photographers.

Gangshan Pet Park in Kaohsiung's Gangshan District is northern Kaohsiung's first park built expressly for dogs. Separate zones for large and small breeds offer generous running room and varied play equipment. Double-gated entries, paw-washing stations, drinking fountains, waste bins, and shade canopies keep both owners and pets comfortable. The park is free and open to all — perfect for an evening walk, a play session, or mingling with fellow dog owners.

GIVE IT TO ME (Food x Space) is a renovated old-house restaurant in Kaohsiung's Lingya District that layers indie-nostalgic charm over modern comfort. The menu delivers refined Taiwanese set meals, savory bites, desserts, and handmade drinks, served with handwritten menus, complimentary old-school cookies, and house chili sauce. The two-story space seats 8–20 and suits small gatherings or craft workshops. The standout: a pet-friendly policy that welcomes dogs and cats, with a resident pup of its own, so pet owners can dine worry-free.

Qiaotou Sugar Factory Pet Sports Park in Kaohsiung's Qiaotou District offers expansive lawns ideal for dogs to run and roam. The grounds preserve Japanese-era sugar-factory architecture and a retro narrow-gauge train that carries visitors on a ten-minute ride. Historical sites include the factory director's residence and a black bronze Kannon statue. Pets on leash are welcome throughout the outdoor area (some indoor exhibits may restrict entry — check current rules). Nearby pet-friendly eateries like Lu Jian You Yu serve coffee and light meals with dedicated pet seating, so owners and fur babies can relax together.