Shoushan National Nature Park

Overview

Shoushan National Nature Park is a 1,122-hectare protected forest covering the coastal mountain range directly west of central Kaohsiung. Laced with hiking trails through tropical vegetation, it is home to a large population of Formosan macaques and offers sweeping harbour views from its ridgeline.

Highlights

• Formosan Macaques: Troops of endemic Taiwan macaques are commonly seen along trails—this is one of the easiest places in Taiwan to observe them in the wild.
• Harbour Overlook: The ridgeline trail provides panoramic views of the port, Cijin Island, and the 85 Sky Tower.
• Coral-Limestone Caves: Exposed ancient coral formations and small caves dot the hillside, remnants of raised coral reef.

History

Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) was a military restricted zone until 1989, which accidentally preserved its ecosystem. In 2011 it was designated Taiwan's first National Nature Park. The Formosan macaque population has grown to an estimated 1,200 individuals.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Do not feed the macaques—they can become aggressive. Keep food sealed and bags closed.
• Tip 2: Use the main entrance near the Kaohsiung Zoo for the widest, best-maintained trails.
• Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours.