About Love River 愛河
The Love River in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a beautiful and iconic waterway that runs through the heart of the city. It stretches for about 12 kilometers and is one of Kaohsiung’s most scenic landmarks. Historically, the river played a significant role in the city’s development, particularly in its early days when it was used for transportation and trade.
Today, the Love River is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and cycling along its banks. The area is lined with parks, cafes, and restaurants, making it a relaxing spot to unwind. At night, the river comes alive with colorful lights and illuminations, adding to its romantic charm, which is how it earned its name.
Love River is also known for the Love River Walk, which has become a symbol of Kaohsiung’s modern transformation. Whether you are visiting for a peaceful moment by the water or enjoying the lively atmosphere around the river, it’s a must-see spot when exploring the city.
Best Things to Do in Love River
The Love River in Kaohsiung offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed throughout the day and into the evening. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful, romantic experience or something a bit more active, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do along Love River:
Take a Boat Ride
One of the most popular ways to experience Love River is by taking a boat tour. You can hop on a traditional wooden boat or a more modern electric boat to cruise along the river. It’s a relaxing way to take in the scenic views of the city and the riverbanks, especially during sunset.
■ Kaohsiung Love River Love Boat Ticket & Cruise Guide
■ Kaohsiung Romantic Love Gondola Boat ticket
Walk or Cycle Along the River
The Love River Walk is a beautiful pedestrian path that runs along the river, perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of bike rentals available if you’d like to cycle. Along the way, you’ll pass gardens, sculptures, and cafes, making it a lovely way to enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
Take Photos at Heart of Love River
The Heart of Love River are iconic landmarks, perfect for photo opportunities. The bridges are especially striking at night when lit up. The Rainbow Bridge and Xizi Bridge are among the most popular photo spots, and many tourists stop here to capture the beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Visit the Riverside Parks
The banks of the river are lined with lush parks that provide great spots to relax and people-watch. Cijin Park, located at the river’s mouth, offers beautiful green spaces and great views. You can enjoy a peaceful break, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the riverside breeze.
Enjoy the Night Lights
At night, Love River truly comes alive with beautiful illuminations. The bridges and trees are lit up with vibrant colors, and the riverside promenade becomes a romantic spot for evening walks. It’s a perfect location for a peaceful, scenic evening with your loved one or to simply enjoy the colorful reflections in the water.
Dine at Riverside Cafes and Restaurants
The area around Love River has a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Many of these establishments offer outdoor seating with views of the river, making them an ideal place to relax, enjoy a meal, and people-watch. Whether you’re craving local Taiwanese food or international cuisine, there are plenty of options.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day out or a lively evening filled with lights and music, Love River has plenty to offer for every type of traveler.
Opening Hours
Love River: Open 24 hours
Love River Cruise: 15:00–22:00
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit Love River
For evening romance: Summer evenings, with cooler nights and vibrant lighting. The best time to visit Love River in Kaohsiung depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. However, there are certain seasons and times of the day that can enhance your visit:
Evening and Night – Best for the Romantic Vibe
No matter the season, evenings (after sunset) are undoubtedly the best time to experience the romantic and magical atmosphere of Love River. The bridges and trees are lit up with beautiful colors, creating a charming scene. Night boat tours along the illuminated river are especially popular, offering a scenic and peaceful experience with the city’s lights twinkling in the background.
Summer: Hot but Great for Evening Visits
Kaohsiung’s summers can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching over 30°C (86°F), so daytime activities along the river might feel uncomfortable for some. However, if you don’t mind the heat, the summer evenings are magical. As the sun sets, the temperatures cool down, and the riverfront comes alive with lights and a romantic atmosphere. This is the perfect time for evening boat rides, outdoor dining, or simply enjoying the vibrant nightlife along the river.
Festivals and Events
If you’re interested in cultural experiences, festivals and events around Love River can be a unique time to visit. The Kaohsiung Lantern Festival, usually held in the winter (January or February), lights up the city and the river with stunning lantern displays. Similarly, the Kaohsiung Music Festival and other seasonal events offer a lively atmosphere, often featuring performances and celebrations along the river.
Eat and Drink at Love River in the evening
Eating and drinking along Love River in the evening is a fantastic experience, as the area comes alive with lights and a romantic ambiance. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cafe, a lively bar, or a riverside restaurant with a view, there are plenty of options to enjoy the evening. Here are some great spots and ideas for eating and drinking along Love River:
Best Times for Dining & Drinking
After sunset: This is when the river’s illumination creates the perfect ambiance for a romantic or leisurely evening out. Most restaurants and cafes along the river start getting busier after dark, especially around 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, when the night is in full swing.
Riverside Cafes and Restaurants
Several riverside cafes and restaurants offer fantastic views of the river and the illuminated bridges at night. Several upscale restaurants line the river, offering both local Taiwanese and international cuisines. Many of these restaurants offer outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your meal while watching the lights reflect on the water. The River View Restaurant and Charming Riverside Restaurant are known for their scenic settings.
Romantic Dinner with a View
For a more romantic experience, consider dining at a rooftop restaurant or restaurant with a river view. Many of these places have intimate settings, with soft lighting, candlelit tables, and sweeping views of the river. The Love River Café and Lakeside Restaurant are popular choices for couples looking for a romantic evening. The vibrant atmosphere of the night market adds to the excitement of your evening, and you can always find something delicious to eat and drink.
If you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday, expect a livelier atmosphere with more locals and tourists enjoying the night. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing evening with a drink by the river, a scenic boat ride with dinner, or indulging in local street food, Love River offers a range of options for dining and drinking. The combination of beautiful views, delicious food, and the calming riverfront ambiance makes it an ideal place to enjoy Kaohsiung’s nightlife!
How to get to?
Transportation information
From: MRT(R12 Houyi Exit 1) → walk 600 meters
Google Map: Heart of Love River
From: MRT(O4 Cianjin Exit 2) → walk 600 meters
Google Map: Love River Waterfront Walking Area
From: MRT(O4 Cianjin Exit 2) → walk 800 meters
Google Map: Kaohsiung Gondola
■ Kaohsiung Love River Love Boat Ticket & Cruise Guide
■ Kaohsiung Romantic Love Gondola Boat ticket
From: MRT(O4 Cianjin Exit 2) → walk 800 meters
Google Map: Love River Love Boat & Cruise
From: MRT(O4 Cianjin Exit 2) → walk 700 meters
Google Map: White Lover Container House
From: MRT(C11 Love Pier Exit) → walk 100 meters
Google Map: Love Pier
From: MRT(C11 Love Pier Exit) → walk 150 meters
Google Map: Kaohsiung Music Center
From: MRT(C12 Dayi Pier-2 Exit) → walk 50 meters
Google Map: Great Harbor Bridge
From: MRT(O1 Hamasen Exit 2 or C13 Penglai Pier-2 Exit) → walk 300 meters
Google Map: The Pier-2 Art Center