Pier 2 Art Center, Kaohsiung: Art, Leisure, And Fun In Taiwan

What is Pier 2 Art Center?

Originally, Pier 2 was just an abandoned warehouse along the Kaohsiung Harbor. After being rediscovered in year 2000, Taiwanese artists began to show their interest in the empty space.

The Pier 2 Artistic Development Association was formed a year later and the place became the artistic base for southern Taiwan artists. In 2006, Pier 2 Art Center was redirected to Kaohsiung City Bureau, and since then, this art center has housed many different public art exhibitions such as the Moon Wall Theater, Mega Port Festival, International Steel & Sculpture Festival, etc.

What to see at Pier 2 Art Center?

Pier 2 Art Center hosts plenty of exhibitions throughout the year and every exhibition has its own entrance fee. Tickets can usually be bought on the spot or at the iBon machines in 7-Eleven.

Live music shows, small theater performances and cafés are also good options to consider. However, if you are not interested in seeing any particular exhibitions or shows, there is still plenty to see.

There are art works and murals displayed publicly around the area. If you are lucky, you might also experience outdoor events such as bazaars and secondhand markets.

Other things to do at Pier 2 Art Center

Pier 2 Art Center is a place for everyone, from budget to luxurious travelers, couples, families, and even solo travelers. Visitors, both local and international, often come here to experience a more laid back itinerary.

The photo savvy travelers usually take the opportunity to capture different corners of the art center, while others prefer to sit on the grounds and people watch with a cone of ice cream.

A cycling track is also available at Pier 2 Art Center, so it is not strange to see people on their bicycles. Bicycle rental places are available around the area and averagely costs 100-200 TWD (approximately 3-6 USD) to rent for the day.

Getting to Pier 2 Art Center

Pier 2 Art Center is located very close to Yanchengpu MRT Station, so it is impossible to get lost. From any MRT station, head to Sizihwan on the Orange Line train and get off at Yancheng MRT Station; fares depend on the distance of travel. Head to Exit 1 and just walk straight along Dayong Street for about 5 minutes; the art center is just next to Pasadena Bakery.

Travelers usually visit during the evening since the sun gets really hot during the day, especially in summer, and spend a few hours there until night time.