Kaohsiung history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of modern Kaohsiung dates back to the 17th century, although archaeological findings suggest earlier settlements existed. During the Ming Empire, this area was known as a haven for pirates. After Taiwan came under the control of the Qing Dynasty in 1684, Fengshan County was established here. The initial name of the settlement was Dagou (打狗), which presumably meant "bamboo forest" in the language of the indigenous inhabitants. However, in Chinese characters, this name had an unpleasant meaning — "beating dogs".

Key Factors of Formation

• Geography: The foundation for the city's development served by its natural harbor — the largest and most protected on the entire island, making it an ideal location for a port.
• Trade: After opening Taiwan to foreign trade in the mid-19th century, the port, officially established in 1863, quickly turned into an important trading hub.
• Political Development: The city received a significant boost in development during the period of Japanese rule, which began in 1895. The Japanese administration invested heavily in modernizing the port, transforming it into a modern transport hub. In 1920, considering the old name unrefined, the Japanese changed it to Kaohsiung (高雄). The new characters were pronounced the same way in Japanese ("Takao") but had a more noble meaning: "high" and "hero".

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From a small fishing settlement that served as a temporary refuge for pirates, Kaohsiung gradually transformed. In the 19th century, it became a significant trading point, and in the 20th century, influenced by Japanese industrialization, it became a leading industrial center and the main container port of Taiwan. This transition from a pirate harbor to a modern metropolis defined the unique character of the city.

Key Milestones in Kaohsiung's History

The history of Kaohsiung is a journey from a small fishing village to one of the largest ports in the world and a vital industrial center of Taiwan. The city has changed its appearance and name many times, reflecting the complex historical processes taking place on the island.

Early History and Port Foundation

• 17th Century — A settlement of indigenous peoples existed on the site of the future city, which Dutch colonists and later Chinese settlers called Dagou (打狗). At this time, the harbor was also known as a haven for pirates.
• 1684 — Taiwan becomes part of the Qing Empire, and this territory becomes part of Fengshan County.
• 1863 — After the defeat of the Qing Empire in the Second Opium War, the port of Dagou was officially opened for foreign trade.
• 1895 — Taiwan is ceded to Japan, and the Japanese administration begins a massive modernization of the port, turning it into an important transport artery.
• 1920 — The Japanese change the city's name from Dagou, which was considered inharmonious, to Kaohsiung (高雄). The new name had the same Japanese pronunciation ("Takao") but a more positive meaning.

Modern History

• 1945 — After the end of World War II, Taiwan comes under the administration of the Republic of China, and the city officially retains the name Kaohsiung.
• 1947 — Kaohsiung receives the status of a provincial city, highlighting its growing importance.
• 1979 — On December 10, a major demonstration for human rights takes place in the city, entering history as the "Kaohsiung Incident". This event became a turning point in the movement for Taiwan's democratization.
• 2008 — The first lines of the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) open, radically changing the city's transport infrastructure.
• 2010 — An administrative reform takes place: Kaohsiung City and the county of the same name merge into a single special municipality.
• 2018 — The grand opening of the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) takes place, becoming the world's largest performing arts complex under a single roof and a new architectural symbol of the city.

Stages of Transformation: From Port to Metropolis

The development of the city can be divided into several key stages, each of which radically changed its appearance and role in the region. Here are the main milestones that turned Kaohsiung into a modern metropolis:

• Opening of the Port for Foreign Trade (1863). The official opening of the port of Dagou (the old name of the city) was the starting point for the region's integration into the global economy. This event predetermined the city's destiny as the island's main maritime gateway through which sugar and camphor exports passed.
• Industrialization and Infrastructure Creation (1900–1940s). During this period, the foundation of modern urban planning was laid: a railway was built, the harbor was dredged, and a rectangular street grid was approved. The city began to acquire the features of a major industrial center.
• Launch of the World's First Export Processing Zone (1966). The creation of the KEPZ zone was a revolutionary step that kickstarted the "economic miracle" of all of Taiwan. This attracted foreign investment, created thousands of jobs, and secured the city's status as a manufacturing locomotive.
• Development of Heavy Industry (1970s). The construction of steel mills (China Steel) and shipyards turned the city into an industrial capital. Although this led to economic prosperity, it also created environmental challenges that the city had to deal with in the future.
• Ecological Restoration of the Love River (Late 1990s). The massive cleanup of the city's main waterway, which was previously heavily polluted by industrial waste, became a symbol of the urban planning shift towards a comfortable urban environment. Today, the river embankments are a favorite leisure spot for citizens and families.
• Transport Revolution (2008). The launch of the subway system (KMRT) not only solved transport problems but also gave the city new attractions, such as the "Formosa Boulevard" station. This event marked the transition to modern urbanism.
• Cultural Conversion of Industrial Zones (2010s). The transformation of abandoned port warehouses into the "Pier-2" Art Center became a landmark project. This event symbolizes the change in the city's image: from a strictly industrial center to a creative cluster attracting tourists and artists.
• "Asia New Bay Area" Project. The current stage of development is aimed at revitalizing the coastline. The construction of exhibition centers, music complexes, and libraries is forming a new, futuristic skyline for the city and developing the experience economy.

The architectural appearance of Kaohsiung represents a dynamic combination of historical influences and ultra-modern solutions, reflecting its journey from a port city to a technological and cultural hub. Several key eras can be distinguished in its urban fabric, each leaving its unique mark.

Early and Colonial Architecture

The pre-Japanese period left behind few monumental structures, mostly traditional Chinese temples and residential buildings. Systematic urban development began during the period of Japanese rule (1895–1945). Japanese architects used Taiwan as a platform for experimenting with Western styles, adapting them to local conditions. At this time, the foundations of the modern street grid were laid, and styles such as Neoclassicism and Art Nouveau with elements of Japanese aesthetics appeared in architecture. A striking example is the old Kaohsiung Station building, executed in the "Imperial Crown Style," which combined modern structures with a traditional Japanese roof. Elegant red brick buildings, such as the former British Consulate in colonial style, have also been preserved.

Post-War Modernism and Industrial Boom

After World War II and during the period of rapid economic growth, Kaohsiung developed as a major industrial center. The architecture of this period was predominantly utilitarian: factories, industrial complexes, and functional residential buildings were built. However, iconic modernist objects began to appear even then. The most important symbol of this era became the 85 Sky Tower (Tuntex Sky Tower) skyscraper, completed in 1997. Its unique design in the shape of a prong, resembling the Chinese character 高 ("high"), defined the city panorama for many years.

Modern and Post-Modern Architecture

Since the beginning of the 21st century, Kaohsiung has been experiencing an architectural renaissance, shifting the focus from industry to culture, technology, and sustainability. This period is characterized by the appearance of bold futuristic projects developed by leading world architects.

• National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying): Opened in 2018, this complex designed by the Dutch firm Mecanoo became the world's largest performing arts center under one roof. Its smooth, undulating form is inspired by the canopies of local banyan trees and symbolizes the organic integration of architecture and nature.
• Kaohsiung Main Public Library: This building is an example of "green" architecture. Its structure resembles a giant tree, and a hanging garden on the roof and an atrium create a comfortable public space filled with light.
• Kaohsiung Music Center: A complex of buildings with an irregular, crystalline shape located in the port area symbolizes waves and other marine motifs. It has become a new center of attraction within the framework of the Asia New Bay Area waterfront revitalization project.
• Pier-2 Art Center: An example of the successful transformation of old port warehouses into a lively cultural space with galleries, installations, and design studios, demonstrating the trend towards preserving industrial heritage.

Today's Kaohsiung is a city of contrasts, where historical temples and colonial mansions sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers and cultural centers, creating a multi-layered and memorable urban landscape.

Distinguished Personalities Associated with Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, as a major port and cultural center, has been the birthplace or place of activity for many iconic figures who have left a mark on the history, politics, and arts of Taiwan.

Politics and History

• Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong, 1624–1662) — A national hero and military commander. Although his main base was in neighboring Tainan, it was his expulsion of the Dutch from southern Taiwan in 1662 that laid the foundation for the further development of the entire region, including the territory of future Kaohsiung. His activities became a turning point in the island's history.
• Chen Chu (born 1950) — One of the key figures in Taiwan's democratic movement. She was a participant in the "Kaohsiung Incident" of 1979, for which she spent years in prison. Later, she served as the Mayor of Kaohsiung from 2006 to 2018. During her tenure, the city was transformed: large-scale infrastructure projects (including the metro) were implemented, and the focus shifted from heavy industry to culture and tourism.
• Han Kuo-yu (born 1957) — A politician who served as the Mayor of Kaohsiung from 2018 to 2020. His unexpected victory in the elections attracted global attention to the city, however, his subsequent participation in the presidential race and early recall from the post of mayor became notable events in the recent political life of Kaohsiung.

Literature and Art

• Yeh Shih-tao (1925–2008) — An outstanding writer and literary critic, considered one of the pillars of modern Taiwanese literature. Although he was born in Tainan, a significant part of his work and life was dedicated to interpreting the history and culture of southern Taiwan, making him a crucial cultural figure for the entire region, including Kaohsiung.
• Tsai Chin (born 1957) — A popular folk and pop singer born in Kaohsiung. Her deep and soulful voice made her one of the most recognizable performers in Mandarin. Tsai Chin's career, which began in the late 1970s, continues successfully today, and her songs have become classics for several generations of listeners.
• Chris Wu (Wu Kang-ren, born 1982) — A famous Taiwanese actor and model, born and raised in Kaohsiung. Starting his career with odd jobs, he achieved great success in film and television, becoming a laureate of several prestigious acting awards. He is a bright representative of the modern generation of artists emerging from this city.