Kaohsiung Departure – Tainan city day tour

Discover Tainan on a Comfortable Full-Day Tour from Kaohsiung

If you’re looking to see Taiwan’s oldest city without the hassle of planning each stop, this Kaohsiung to Tainan day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Taiwan’s heritage and natural beauty. For around $180 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours visiting key sites like Anping Fort, Chihkan Tower, and the Confucius Temple, while traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned van with a friendly guide. What makes this tour stand out? We particularly appreciate the blend of historic sites with scenic nature, along with the small group size—just up to seven travelers—making it feel intimate and flexible.

Two specific things we love: First, the chance to walk through Anping Old Street and try local snacks—an authentic taste of Taiwanese culture. Second, the Sicao Green Tunnel, which offers a peaceful boat ride through mangroves that feels like an unexpected mini adventure. A possible consideration? The entrance fees are not included (about NT$450), so be prepared to budget a bit extra if you want full access to all sites.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to enjoy Tainan’s mix of old-world charm and natural scenery without the stress of navigating public transport. If you enjoy guided insights and want a meaningful introduction to the city’s highlights, this experience could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

Convenient Half-Force Day: An 8-hour guided tour from Kaohsiung, covering major sites in Tainan with a comfortable vehicle.
Rich Cultural Stops: Includes historic forts, temples, and old streets that tell Taiwan’s story.
Scenic Natural Highlights: Mangrove boat tour through the “mini Amazon” and lush surroundings.
All-Inclusive Feel: Bottled water and a friendly guide make the day smooth and enjoyable.
Extra Costs: Not included are entrance fees (~NT$450), so budget accordingly.
Small Group: Maximum of seven travelers for a more personal experience.

The Itinerary Explored in Detail

Anping Fort (Anping Gubao) — A Foundation of Taiwan’s Colonial Past

Our first stop is Anping Fort, originally built by the Dutch East India Company in 1623. As the earliest fortress in Taiwan, it played a key role during Dutch and Ming Zheng rule. The ruins are modest but evocative, offering a tangible connection to Taiwan’s colonial history. Walking around, we loved the way the old stones and thick walls whisper stories from centuries ago. Keep in mind, the admission ticket isn’t included, so you might want to set aside NT$150-200 if you want to go inside.

Anping Old Street — Tasting Taiwan

Next, we stroll Anping Old Street, where the aroma of local snacks fills the air. This is a favorite for many, offering a genuine sense of local life and flavors. You’ll find street vendors selling everything from crispy shrimp rolls to traditional sweets. We appreciated the free admission here, giving us flexibility to explore at our own pace. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Anping Tree House — Nature Reclaims Its Space

The Anping Tree House is a surprisingly enchanting site. Built around the late 19th century, the warehouse has been overgrown by banyan trees whose aerial roots now form walls and ceilings that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Wooden boardwalks allow easy access, and the canopy of trees creates a cool, shaded environment. We loved the contrast of man-made structures and nature’s artistry, making it a photographer’s paradise. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here—admission not included.

Sicao Green Tunnel — A Mini Amazon in Taiwan

One of the tour’s highlights is the Sicao Green Tunnel, where a boat takes you through a mangrove-lined waterway that feels like a slice of the Amazon. Over 50-year-old mangroves stretch over the canal, creating a tunnel of greenery and serenity. This is a perfect chance to observe local flora and perhaps spot some squirrels or birds. The boat ride lasts about an hour, and while the admission isn’t included, it’s well worth it for the peaceful, immersive natural experience.

Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia) — A Marsh of History and Architecture

The Chihkan Tower has been through a lot—civil unrest, renovations, and cultural shifts—but remains a symbol of Tainan’s resilience. Originally Dutch, then Chinese, and later rebuilt during Japanese rule to its present form, the tower offers layers of history in its architecture. We enjoyed the contrast of old walls and the enshrined gods, like Guanyin, which speak to Taiwan’s layered past. Expect to spend about 40 minutes here—another site where entrance fees apply.

Hayashi Department Store — A Glimpse into Tainan’s Colonial Past

The Hayashi Department Store was once the tallest building in Tainan, with modern features for its time like elevators and rolling shutters. Today, it’s a cultural site that showcases Japan’s colonial influence and the city’s development. Restored and operating as a “cultural and creative department store,” it’s a good spot for photos and to appreciate early 20th-century architecture. Admission is free, making it an accessible stop to appreciate the city’s blend of old and new.

Confucius Temple — Taiwan’s Oldest and Most Revered

Our final cultural highlight is the Confucius Temple, founded in 1665. It’s not just a temple but a testament to Tainan’s long-standing role as a center of learning and scholarship. The peaceful grounds and traditional architecture offer a quiet moment at the end of the day. With free admission and a 20-minute visit, it’s a perfect wrap-up to this culturally rich tour.

Practical Considerations and Value

The value of this tour lies in its convenience and curated experience—covering key historical sites, natural scenery, and cultural landmarks in one smooth day. The group size of up to seven travelers makes for a more personalized experience, with the guide able to tailor commentary and answer questions. The air-conditioned van keeps you comfortable, especially during Taiwan’s warm days, and bottled water ensures hydration.

While the entrance fees are not included, the NT$450 fee covers all major sites, including the fort, chihkan tower, and boat ride. If you’re a history enthusiast or curious about Taiwan’s colonial past, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. Nature lovers will appreciate the mangrove boat experience, a peaceful respite from busy city streets.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary may change slightly, depending on weather or other circumstances, so flexibility is key. Also, if visiting every site in depth is your goal, you might find the time a little tight, but for a well-rounded overview, it’s quite effective.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Tainan without the hassle of planning. History buffs will love exploring the forts, temples, and old streets, while those interested in nature will enjoy the mangrove boat ride. It’s also suitable for families or small groups who prefer a personalized experience. If you’re on a tight schedule but want to see a variety of highlights, this tour offers good value for the time invested.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a hassle-free way to explore Taiwan’s oldest city, this Kaohsiung to Tainan day tour provides a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and nature. The small group setup and knowledgeable guides make it engaging without feeling rushed, letting you absorb the stories behind each site.

You’ll get a sense of Tainan’s proud past—from Dutch colonization and Chinese influence to Japanese modernization—while also enjoying the tranquility of the mangroves. The cultural highlights like the Confucius Temple and Chihkan Tower are authentic and meaningful, not just sightseeing stops. Plus, the chance to try local foods at Anping Old Street adds a delightful taste of Taiwan’s culinary scene.

For anyone wanting an in-depth, yet relaxed introduction to Tainan, this tour offers a great value. Bring your curiosity, a camera, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for Taiwan’s cultural tapestry.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for families, especially since it’s a small group and includes outdoor sites. However, consider the walking involved at each site and whether children can handle the schedule.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the entrance fees (~NT$450) are paid separately, so budget for that if you want full access to the sites.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water. A camera or smartphone is recommended for photos, especially at scenic and historic spots.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to plan to buy snacks or eat on your own during free time on Anping Old Street.

How big is the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of seven travelers, which helps maintain a more personal, engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, and you’ll get a full refund. Cancellations later than that are not eligible for refunds.

Exploring Tainan from Kaohsiung has never been easier or more enjoyable. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about Taiwan’s oldest city, this tour offers a rich, manageable, and memorable experience.