85 Sky Tower

Overview

85 Sky Tower (Tuntex Sky Tower) is a 347-metre skyscraper in the Lingya district and was Kaohsiung's tallest building from its completion in 1997 until 2004. Its distinctive split-top design, inspired by the Chinese character for 'high' (高), dominates the harbour skyline.

Highlights

• Observation Deck: The 74th-floor platform provides sweeping views of the harbour, Cijin Island, and Shoushan on clear days.
• Iconic Silhouette: The tower's unmistakable silhouette—a slot cut through its crown—has become one of Kaohsiung's defining visual symbols.
• Harbour Views at Night: The tower is illuminated nightly, and evening visits offer spectacular city light panoramas.

History

Designed by C.Y. Lee & Partners (the same firm behind Taipei 101), the 85 Sky Tower was completed in 1997 during Kaohsiung's port-city boom. At 347 metres it was briefly Taiwan's tallest building. The observation deck attracts around 200,000 visitors per year.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit on a clear day for views stretching to the mountains; haze can limit visibility.
• Tip 2: The building also houses a hotel—the upper-floor lobby café offers similar views with coffee.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.