Qishan

Qishan (旗山) is a historic town in northern Kaohsiung, Taiwan, known for its well-preserved Japanese-era architecture and as a centre of the banana industry. The town's main street is lined with Baroque-style arcaded buildings, and the Qishan Banana Export Centre recalls the days when Qishan supplied bananas to Japan. The town is also the gateway to the Maolin National Scenic Area.

The climate is tropical. October to March are the best months. The historic centre is compact and walkable.

By Plane

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is about 40 km south. A taxi takes about 45 minutes and costs around NT$1,000–1,300.

By Train

Qishan does not have a TRA station. The nearest station is Jiucheng Station on the TRA west coast line, about 15 km west. From Jiucheng, take a taxi or bus (20 minutes, taxi NT$350–450).

By Car / Road

Qishan is accessible via Freeway 10 (Qishan exit) and Provincial Highway 21. From Kaohsiung City, drive north for about 40 minutes. Regular buses connect Qishan to Kaohsiung City.

The historic centre is very walkable. For exploring the surrounding area, a car or scooter is helpful.

• Qishan Old Street — A beautiful arcaded street with Japanese-era Baroque-style buildings.

• Qishan Banana Export Centre — A historic building commemorating the banana trade.

• Qishan Mazu Temple — A grand temple in the town centre.

• Qishan Sugar Factory — A historic sugar mill with parkland and a museum.

• Qishan Bridge — A historic bridge over the Qishan River.

• Walk the historic old street and photograph the architecture.

• Visit the banana export centre museum.

• Explore the Qishan Sugar Factory area.

• Visit the nearby Maolin National Scenic Area.

• Qishan banana cakes and crackers — Available at shops on the old street.
• Small eateries serve local noodle and rice dishes. NT$50–100.
• Hakka restaurants in the area serve traditional dishes.

Bubble tea shops and convenience stores are available. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Simple guesthouses in town, NT$800–1,200.
• Mid-range: Kaohsiung City offers more accommodation options.

Qishan is famous for bananas and banana products. Banana crackers, cakes, and dried bananas are popular. Traditional Taiwanese snacks are also available.

• Meinong — 8 km east. Hakka cultural town with traditional architecture.
• Kaohsiung City — 40 km south. Taiwan's second-largest city.
• Maolin — 20 km northeast. Indigenous Rukai area with scenic valleys.
• Liugui — 15 km north. Mountain township with hot springs and hiking.
• Neimen — 10 km northwest. Known for the Songjiang Battle Array festival.