A black and white logo for a guide with a turtle on it.

Kaohsiung Airport Hotel Recommendations

Xiaoliuqiu Concierge • August 23, 2023

Flying into Kaohsiung International Airport (airport code KHH) instead of Taipei can be super convenient if you are going to go directly to Xiaoliuqiu from the airport. 

The advantages of flying to Kaohsiung is its proximity to Donggang, the port to leave for Xiaoliuqiu, it’s small size so you don’t have a long walk in the airport and ability to easily catch a cab without a long wait, just 20 meters away from the immigration exit. It almost reminded me of flying into the old Kai Tak Airport in Hong Kong, but even smaller.

One of the potential problems is arriving in Kaohsiung in the evening. The last ferry from Donggang to Xiaoliuqiu leaves at 4:50pm and it takes 35-45 minutes to drive from Kaohsiung International Airport. (See the ferry schedule here)


So if you are arriving after 4:00pm, you will have no choice but to stay overnight somewhere. 

Last week I faced the same predicament on my way back from Tonga diving with humpback whales and I think by far the easiest solution is to stay at one of the two hotels suggested below, which is a 5 minute taxi ride or about NT$150 from the airport. They also have convenience stores and a decent selection of restaurants within walking distance.

I stayed at the first one which was clean and simple. It cost about NT$1000/night. 


I then called an Uber which was about NT$600-700 from the hotel to the Donggang ferry terminal. 


This was much more convenient than last time, which I did by grabbing a cab to Donggang, staying at a guest house there and walking 15 minutes with my bags to the ferry terminal. There are probably no guest houses within easy walking distance to the ferry terminal nor is there an easy way to get a taxi or Uber there so that walk with all my bags in the heat was a total pain.


Accommodations for layover in Kaohsiung

Hope this helps?


And remember if you DO NOT HAVE A TAIWAN BANK ACCOUNT YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE CASH OUT FROM THE ATM ON THE ISLAND, and not very many places take credit card. Last chance to withdraw money is from the two convenience stores across the street from the ferry terminal. 

Exploring the Best Cafes on Xiaoliuqiu

February 7, 2025
Xiaoliuqiu is famous for its breathtaking sea turtles, crystal-clear waters, and, more recently, its thriving coffee scene. As a devoted coffee lover (okay, maybe addict), I know the first thing on your mind when visiting a new place is: Where am I going to get my coffee? That’s exactly why I put this guide together.

Xiaoliuqiu Beach Guide: Discovering Taiwan's Best Year-Round Beaches

February 2, 2025
When planning a beach getaway in Taiwan, Xiaoliuqiu stands out among the outlying islands and even rivals the popular beaches of Kenting. Why? Because it's protected from strong seasonal winds, making it an ideal destination for water activities or simply lounging on the sand any time of year. Outside the busy student summer holiday season (July-August) and long weekends, you'll often find Xiaoliuqiu’s beaches nearly empty—perfect for social distancing or just soaking up some serene island vibes.
More Posts
Share by: