2025 Kaohsiung Rice Food Festival

Event Information

Dates and Times: January 18th ㊅ – January 19th ㊐, 2025, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Kaohsiung Central Park

Event Overview

The 2025 Kaohsiung Rice Food Festival, taking place over two days in January, promises a unique culinary experience centered around the versatility of rice. This year’s festival builds upon the success of previous iterations, expanding its offerings and solidifying its position as a premier event for food enthusiasts.

Food and Agriculture Education Games

Engage in interactive games designed to educate attendees on the importance of food and agriculture. These activities are suitable for all ages and offer a fun way to learn about the journey of rice from farm to table.

Rice Food Tiantuan Creative Cooking Competition

Date and Time: January 19th ㊐, 12:00 PM

Witness culinary creativity at its peak during the Rice Food Tiantuan Creative Cooking Competition. Talented chefs will compete to create innovative and delicious dishes using rice as the primary ingredient. This event showcases the versatility of rice in modern cuisine.

Grain and Rice Market

Dates and Times: January 18th ㊅ – January 19th ㊐, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The Grain and Rice Market has been significantly expanded for the 2025 festival, featuring 80 stalls – a substantial increase from previous years. This expansion allows for a greater variety of rice-based products and dishes, providing attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse culinary applications of rice.

Dadou Picnic Concert

Dates and Times: January 18th ㊅ at 1:00 PM, January 19th ㊐ at 2:00 PM

Enjoy live musical performances in a relaxed, open-air setting at the Dadou Picnic Concert. The performances, carefully curated to complement the festival’s atmosphere, will be accompanied by a designated picnic area, allowing attendees to unwind and enjoy the music while savoring their favorite rice dishes.

Expert Chef Cooking & Tasting Event

Dates and Times: January 18th ㊅, 2:20 PM – 2:40 PM, January 19th ㊐, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Learn from the best during the Expert Chef Cooking & Tasting Event. Renowned chefs will demonstrate the preparation of "simple and delicious" rice-centric dishes, sharing their expertise and introducing the audience to unique culinary creations. A limited-quantity tasting event will follow each demonstration, offering a firsthand experience of the chefs’ skills.

Rice Food Crafts

Dates and Times: January 18th ㊅ – January 19th ㊐

For those seeking a hands-on experience, the Rice Food Crafts activity provides an opportunity to engage in creative projects using rice as a medium. Participants in both the Rice Food Crafts and the Food and Agriculture Education Games will have a chance to receive limited edition souvenirs, commemorating their participation in the festival.

Thousand-Person "Snake" Rice Ball

Date and Time: January 18th ㊅, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

In celebration of the Year of the Snake, the festival will host a unique event where attendees can participate in the creation of a large-scale "snake" rice ball. This collaborative activity invites participants to shape rice balls, symbolizing good fortune and creativity. It’s a chance to contribute to a memorable, community-driven project.

To participate, please register via the Registration Link.

Image Gallery

Accommodation

For those traveling to the festival, a selection of hotels near the event can be found here: 🛏️ Hotels near the event.

What is Kaohsiung?

Kaohsiung is a city in southern Taiwan, notable for its port, cultural sites, and natural scenery. As Taiwan’s second-largest city, it has evolved from an industrial center into a modern urban area with a growing arts scene and diverse food options. Key landmarks include the Love River, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. With a subtropical climate, Kaohsiung offers a warm environment, appealing to both residents and visitors. The Kaohsiung Rice Food Festival highlights the city’s agricultural heritage and culinary creativity, offering a chance to explore local flavors and traditions.

2025 Shennong Farmers’ Market: January Session in Kaohsiung

The Shennong Farmers’ Market returns to Kaohsiung’s Aozihdi Forest Park for its first session of 2025, taking place on January 18th and 19th, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM each day. This edition of the market promises a unique experience, blending the traditional farmers’ market atmosphere with a celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year.

Event Highlights

The January session of the Shennong Farmers’ Market is distinguished by its collaboration with the Agriculture and Food Agency of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, and the Kaohsiung International Flower Corporation. This partnership brings forth the "2025 Kaohsiung Spring Festival Top Ten Agricultural Product Gift Awards and New Year Flower Arrangement Exhibition," a showcase that intertwines the beauty of floral arrangements with the excellence of Kaohsiung’s agricultural produce.

👩🏻‍🌾 Special Chinese New Year Bonus Plan

On Saturday, January 18th, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, visitors can witness the unveiling of the "2025 Kaohsiung Spring Festival Top Ten Agricultural Product Gift Awards and New Year Flower Arrangement Exhibition." This exhibition will feature a display of floral gifts alongside an art installation representing the top ten creative gifts, meticulously selected from 63 competing agricultural products. Attendees are invited to immerse themselves in this unique fusion of floriculture and agriculture.

As an added incentive, purchases exceeding a certain amount will be rewarded with a "Livestock Family-Themed Desk Calendar." This calendar showcases a blend of Western geometry and literati ink painting, presented on a wooden base. This offer is available while supplies last.

👨🏻‍🍳 Food and Agriculture Education Promotion and Experiential Activities

On Sunday, January 19th, between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM, floral art teachers from the Kaohsiung International Flower Corporation will conduct a demonstration and instructional session. This event aims to educate the public on integrating food and agriculture concepts with floral arrangements, providing a hands-on learning experience that connects participants with nature and agricultural knowledge.

🙋🏻‍♀️ Agricultural Product Promotion, Tasting, and Sales Fair

In anticipation of the New Year, the market will offer a variety of products to enhance the festive spirit. Four tasting sessions will be held over the two days, allowing visitors to sample the Spring Festival flavors offered by the Shennong Farmers’ Market vendors.

🦸🏻‍♀️ Street Performer Schedule

The market will also feature a lineup of street performers to entertain attendees:

Saturday, January 18th:

• 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Interactive Magic Show
• 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Music Performance by Zhe Wei
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Music Performance by Da Tou

Sunday, January 19th:

• 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Music Performance by Fang Qi
• 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Music Performance by Jie Chen
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Music Performance by Eleven Lang

🎁 Spend and Earn Gift Redemption

Visitors can collect points with their purchases, with every $50 spent earning one point. These points can be redeemed for a selection of gifts. To participate, join the Shennong Farmers’ Market Official LINE Account.

Further Information

This information is sourced from the Kaohsiung Super Go – Kaohsiung City Government Agriculture Bureau.

For a visual preview of the event, see the following image:

🛏️ Hotels near the event

What is Shennong?

Shennong is a legendary figure in Chinese mythology, known for introducing agriculture and herbal medicine to ancient China. He is credited with developing farming techniques and identifying medicinal plants, both of which have played a significant role in Chinese history. His influence persists in modern Chinese agriculture. The Kaohsiung Shennong Farmers’ Market reflects this legacy by supporting sustainable farming and celebrating agricultural heritage, particularly during Chinese New Year.

Snakes Bring Fortune: Science and Technology Greet the New Year

The National Museum of Natural Science (NMNS) is hosting a special event to celebrate the Year of the Snake, titled "Snakes Bring Fortune." This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with science and technology in a festive setting.

Extended Hours for the Lunar New Year

In celebration of the Lunar New Year, the NMNS will extend its operating hours. From January 25th to February 2nd, the museum will remain open until 6:00 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore the exhibits and participate in the festivities.

"Snakes Bring Fortune" Event Details

The main event, "Snakes Bring Fortune," will be held from January 30th to February 2nd. Participation is free, and attendees will have the chance to receive gifts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

Event Schedule:

• Dates: January 30th – February 2nd
• Location: 1st Floor Lobby

The event is designed to be both educational and entertaining, aligning with the museum’s mission to promote scientific literacy. While specific activities are not detailed in the provided information, the title suggests a focus on the Year of the Snake, possibly incorporating exhibits or interactive displays related to these fascinating reptiles.

Location and Accommodation

The event will take place in the 1st Floor Lobby of the National Museum of Natural Science. For those planning to attend from out of town, a variety of accommodations are available in the vicinity. You can find a selection of hotels near the event through this link: 🛏️ Hotels near the event.

This event offers a unique way to celebrate the Lunar New Year, combining the excitement of the holiday with the educational opportunities provided by the National Museum of Natural Science. Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or simply curious about the Year of the Snake, "Snakes Bring Fortune" promises to be a memorable experience.

The Role of Snakes in Lunar New Year Celebrations

In Lunar New Year celebrations, snakes symbolize wisdom, intelligence, and transformation. In East Asian cultures, the snake is one of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac, representing intuition and elegance. During the Lunar New Year, the snake signifies renewal and change, akin to shedding old skin for new beginnings. This aligns with the festival’s themes of leaving behind past misfortunes and welcoming prosperity. Celebrating with snakes during this time honors these qualities and invites their positive influence for the year ahead.

2025 Kaohsiung Spring Festival Market Guide

The 2025 Kaohsiung Spring Festival promises a diverse array of markets spread across the city, each offering unique experiences for locals and visitors alike. This guide provides a detailed overview of the various markets, their locations, and dates, ensuring you won’t miss out on any of the festivities.

🌟2025 Kaohsiung Spring Festival Market Summary🌟

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Yancheng District

Yanchengpu Spring Festival Rush Market

Also known as the 2025 Xinle Street Spring Festival Market, this event will take place from January 28th to January 31st. Conveniently located on Dayong Road, it is easily accessible via the Yanchengpu MRT Station.

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Lingya District

Year of the Golden Snake Stroll Market

From January 29th to February 1st, the Kaohsiung Cultural Center Plaza will host the Year of the Golden Snake Stroll Market. This market provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in cultural activities while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

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Xiaogang District

Happy Spring Fun

The Hongmaogang Cultural Park is the venue for the Happy Spring Fun market, running from January 29th to February 1st. Visitors can expect a blend of traditional and modern attractions in this historic setting.

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Gushan District

Good Hand Feeling Smile Market

The Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts Outdoor Plaza will be home to the Good Hand Feeling Smile Market from January 30th to February 2nd. This market is an excellent choice for those seeking artisanal goods and a pleasant outdoor experience.

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Qishan District

Cultural Myriad Ethnic Groups Celebrate the New Year

The Qishan Sugar Railway Story Museum will host the Cultural Myriad Ethnic Groups Celebrate the New Year market from January 29th to February 2nd. This event highlights the rich cultural diversity of the region, offering a unique perspective on the Spring Festival.

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Zuoying District

Ruifeng Night Market Open for the New Year

The renowned Kaohsiung Ruifeng Night Market will be open for the New Year from January 23rd to February 2nd. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of food and goods, it is a must-visit destination during the festival.

Lianchi Lake New Year Street

From January 29th to February 2nd, LianTan Road by Lianchi Lake will transform into the New Year Street. This location offers scenic views and a festive environment, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

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Fengshan District

Qingnian Night Market Open for the New Year

The Fengshan Qingnian Night Market will be open from January 23rd to February 3rd. Similar to the Ruifeng Night Market, it offers a bustling atmosphere with numerous vendors and entertainment options.

Year of the Snake Rice Fragrance Handmade Celebration of Health Activity

Fengyi Academy will host the Year of the Snake Rice Fragrance Handmade Celebration of Health Activity from January 31st to February 2nd. This event focuses on traditional crafts and health-related activities, providing a wholesome experience for attendees.

Spring Festival Arts and Culture Performances

The Dadong Arts and Cultural Center will feature Spring Festival Arts and Culture Performances from January 29th to January 31st, with daily shows from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. These performances are a great way to appreciate the artistic talents within the community.

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Kaohsiung Pop Music Center Area

Snake Fun YEAR New Year Market

The Kaohsiung Pop Music Center Lobby will host the Snake Fun YEAR New Year Market from January 29th to February 2nd. This market is ideal for those looking for a modern twist on traditional festivities.

Snakes and Treats Souvenir Market

Located in the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center Wave Tower Lobby, the Snakes and Treats Souvenir Market will also run from January 29th to February 2nd. It offers a variety of souvenirs and treats, making it a great place to find gifts and mementos.

Golden Snake Bestows the Sea Picnic Market

The Sea Breeze Plaza at the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center will be the site of the Golden Snake Bestows the Sea Picnic Market from January 29th to February 2nd. This market combines the joy of picnicking with the festive spirit of the Spring Festival.

WOO! Lucky Snake Market

From January 29th to February 2nd, the Coral Reefs and Whale Embankment at the Kaohsiung Pop Music Center will host the WOO! Lucky Snake Market. This market promises a unique and engaging experience for all visitors.

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For those planning to attend these events, accommodations can be found near the venues.

🛏️ Hotels near the event

What is the Kaohsiung Spring Festival?

The Kaohsiung Spring Festival is an annual celebration of the Lunar New Year in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It combines traditional customs with modern festivities, attracting both locals and tourists. The festival includes parades, lion and dragon dances, and fireworks displays.

Markets are a key feature, offering traditional Taiwanese snacks, handcrafted goods, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy the aromas of street food, the colors of lanterns, and the sounds of music and conversation.

The festival is also a time for reflection and renewal. Families honor their ancestors, exchange gifts, and share meals, reinforcing bonds and expressing hopes for the coming year. It highlights community and tradition, making it a notable event for visitors to Kaohsiung.

2025 Cishan Lantern Festival: Spin the Wheel of Fortune and Fun

2025 Cishan Lantern Festival｜Timely Fun

The 2025 Cishan Lantern Festival promises a vibrant celebration, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences and festive fun. This year’s event, running from January 25th to February 12th, features four distinct lantern areas, each showcasing a unique aspect of Cishan’s heritage and charm.

The festival will be held across multiple locations, including the historic Cishan Old Street, the Wude Hall, the Sports Field, the Mazu Temple, and the Kunzhou Temple, ensuring a wide range of sights and activities for all attendees.

What makes this event particularly appealing is its combination of traditional lantern displays with opportunities to explore Cishan’s distinctive culture, admire landscape architecture, stroll through the historic Old Street, and indulge in a gourmet tour. The festival is designed to be more than just a visual spectacle—it’s an immersive experience that engages all the senses.

Compared to previous lantern festivals, the 2025 Cishan event emphasizes a more comprehensive cultural immersion, integrating the lantern displays seamlessly with the town’s historical and culinary offerings. This approach allows visitors to not only enjoy the beauty of the lanterns but also to delve deeper into the unique character of Cishan.

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What is Cishan?

Cishan, also known as Qishan, is a district in southern Taiwan, part of Kaohsiung City. It is notable for its cultural heritage and local traditions. The area features historical architecture, lively markets, and a variety of local foods, with bananas being a standout product, earning it the nickname "Banana Kingdom." Visitors can explore Japanese-era buildings, sample traditional snacks on Cishan Old Street, and appreciate the scenic countryside. The district hosts cultural events like the Cishan Lantern Festival, offering an opportunity to engage with Taiwanese culture.

2025 Weiwuying New Year Series Activities

Auspicious Lions Offer Congratulations and Add Festive Cheer, Natural Sounds Celebrate the New Year

Usher in the new year with a revitalized spirit by making your way to Weiwuying during the Spring Festival! The 2025 Weiwuying New Year Series promises a vibrant celebration, blending traditional performances with the soothing sounds of nature. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring blessing drums and the energetic auspicious lion dance, setting the stage for a joyous start to the new year. Complementing these traditional performances will be the beautiful natural sounds from the mountain tribes, offering a simple yet profoundly healing auditory feast — a unique and touching way to receive New Year blessings.

Schedule and Opening Hours

The Weiwuying National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts will adjust its operating hours during the Lunar New Year holiday. Please take note of the following schedule:

• Little New Year’s Eve, January 27th (Monday) to New Year’s Eve, January 28th (Tuesday): Closed
• New Year’s Day, January 29th (Wednesday): Opening hours adjusted to 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• From the second day of the New Year, January 30th (Thursday): Normal opening hours resume, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

This schedule ensures that visitors can plan their visit accordingly and fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler exploring the wonders of Kaohsiung, the Weiwuying New Year Series offers a unique cultural experience that is not to be missed.

Visuals and Accommodations

The event promises to be a feast for the senses, with vibrant visuals accompanying the auditory delights. Two images provide a glimpse into the festivities:

• Image of Blessing Drums
• Image of Auspicious Lion Dance

For those planning to extend their stay and fully enjoy the New Year celebrations, a variety of accommodations are available near the event venue. You can find a selection of hotels to suit your preferences and budget through this link: 🛏️ Hotels near the event. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during this peak season, to secure the best rates and ensure a comfortable stay.

2025 Pier-2 Night Market: Reunion Fun

The 2025 Pier-2 Night Market, themed "Reunion Fun," promises a vibrant and festive experience for all attendees. This year’s event features a unique visual identity crafted by Huang Siwei, the designer behind the 2025 New Year’s Day Presidential Office Flag Raising Ceremony visuals. Drawing inspiration from the year of the Snake, the design incorporates elements of the Kaohsiung Pier-2 landscape, depicting festively attired boys and girls. These figures are shown bringing a variety of Pier-2 Night Market delicacies and adorable animals to the Kaohsiung Pier-2 Art Center, where they join the protagonist – a large, gluttonous snake – for a grand New Year’s reunion, replete with food, drinks, and music.

Event Details

The market will be held over five days, offering ample opportunity to immerse oneself in the festivities. The specific dates and times are as follows:

• Dates: January 29th to February 2nd, 2025
• Time: 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily, with the exception of the last day, when the market will close at 8:00 PM.
• Location: The event will be spread across two areas within the Pier-2 Art Center: the Dayong Area Boyou Road and the Dayi Area Red Brick Corridor.

This year’s market stands out due to its unique visual theme, which seamlessly blends the traditional symbolism of the Chinese zodiac with the distinctive character of the Pier-2 Art Center. The involvement of a renowned designer like Huang Siwei ensures a visually captivating experience that sets this event apart from previous iterations. Attendees can expect a feast for the senses, with a wide array of culinary delights, live music, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of reunion and celebration.

The image below provides a glimpse of the vibrant atmosphere that awaits visitors at the 2025 Pier-2 Night Market.


For those planning to attend the market, a variety of accommodation options are available in the vicinity of the Pier-2 Art Center. You can explore and book hotels near the event through the following link:

🛏️ Hotels near the event

2025 New Year’s Festivities: A Fun Time at Xiaoyao Garden

The 2025 New Year’s festivities at Xiaoyao Garden offer a variety of traditional activities for visitors of all ages. From January 29th to February 2nd, the garden will host a series of engaging events, all of which are free to attend and require no prior registration.

Schedule of Events

Spring Couplet Printing DIY 🧧

Dates: January 29th (Wednesday) – February 2nd (Sunday)

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Participation: Share a post from either the Xiaoyao Garden FB fan page or the Bird Town Imperial Tea House FB fan page. Alternatively, check in on Instagram stories to participate in this hands-on activity.

This event allows participants to create their own Spring Couplets, a traditional New Year decoration symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

Patterned Paper Cutting ✂️

Instructor: Xiao Wenxiong

Dates: January 30th (Thursday) – February 2nd (Sunday)

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Learn the intricate art of Chinese paper cutting under the guidance of Xiao Wenxiong. This traditional craft involves creating detailed designs by cutting patterns into paper, often used to decorate windows and doors during the New Year celebrations.

Dough Figurine Making and Sugar Blowing 🍡

Instructor: Xiao Shiyan

Date: January 30th (Thursday)

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Xiao Shiyan will demonstrate the fascinating techniques of dough figurine making and sugar blowing. Dough figurines are colorful sculptures made from edible dough, while sugar blowing involves shaping molten sugar into various forms. Both are traditional folk arts that showcase impressive dexterity and creativity.

Balloon Twisting 🎈

Instructor: Jian Zidan

Date: January 31st (Friday)

Time: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Jian Zidan will entertain visitors with the art of balloon twisting, creating a variety of shapes and figures. This activity is particularly popular with children, who can watch in amazement as simple balloons are transformed into animals, hats, and other fun objects.

Storybook Storytelling 📖

Performer: Magumaku Creative Theatre Group

Date: February 1st (Saturday)

Time: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM

The Magumaku Creative Theatre Group will present an engaging storytelling session, bringing classic tales to life with their dynamic performance style. This event is suitable for families and offers a delightful way to experience the magic of storytelling.

Visual Highlights

The festivities are further enhanced by the beautiful setting of Xiaoyao Garden. Two images capture the essence of the event:

• A vibrant display of traditional New Year decorations
• A close-up of intricate paper cuttings

Accommodation

For those planning to stay overnight, a variety of hotels are conveniently located near Xiaoyao Garden. You can find a selection of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences through this link to Expedia.

The 2025 New Year’s festivities at Xiaoyao Garden promise a memorable experience for all attendees, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in traditional Chinese culture and celebrate the arrival of the new year.

What is Xiaoyao Garden?

Xiaoyao Garden is a traditional Chinese garden that combines natural beauty with classical architecture. Situated in a busy city, it offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can experience China’s cultural heritage. The garden is designed to embody balance and harmony, featuring elements like winding paths, pavilions, and ponds with lotus flowers.

The layout follows classical Chinese garden design, integrating natural and man-made elements. Visitors can explore rockeries resembling mountain landscapes, walk through bamboo groves, and listen to water features. Each part of the garden is arranged to promote peace and contemplation, encouraging a connection with nature.

Beyond its beauty, Xiaoyao Garden is a cultural center, hosting events that celebrate Chinese arts and customs. Throughout the year, it features festivals, tea ceremonies, and performances that highlight Chinese culture. During the Lunar New Year, the garden hosts traditional activities, providing an authentic festive experience.

2025 Fo Guang Shan Chinese New Year Lantern Festival

The 2025 Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Spring Festival Peace Lantern Dharma Assembly will be held from January 29th to February 27th, 2025, corresponding to the first through the thirtieth day of the Lunar New Year. This annual event, initiated in 1980 by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, has become a cherished tradition, attracting Buddhist disciples and visitors from around the world for over four decades.

The festival’s core concept, as envisioned by its founder, is the purification of minds and the creation of a "pure land on earth." This philosophy is reflected in the myriad activities planned for the month-long celebration, all designed to inspire joy, compassion, and wisdom in attendees.

A Tradition of Peace and Auspiciousness

For more than 40 years, Fo Guang Shan has welcomed individuals and families to its grounds during the Spring Festival. The assembly provides a unique opportunity to connect with the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha – the three jewels of Buddhism – while also fostering a sense of inner fulfillment. The event is characterized by a vibrant atmosphere of spring outings and festive celebrations, creating a welcoming environment for both new and returning visitors.

A Month of Activities

The 2025 assembly promises a diverse range of activities, both large and small, catering to a wide audience. While specific details are yet to be fully unveiled, the overarching goal remains consistent: to provide an enriching and meaningful experience for all who attend. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or simply curious about Buddhism, the festival offers a chance to immerse yourself in a culture of peace and spiritual growth.

Event Details

• Dates: January 29th – February 27th, 2025 (Lunar New Year’s Day to the 30th)
• Location: Fo Guang Shan Monastery

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What is Fo Guang Shan?

Fo Guang Shan is a Chinese Buddhist monastic order and organization established in 1967 by Venerable Master Hsing Yun in Taiwan. It is among the largest Buddhist organizations globally, focusing on Humanistic Buddhism, which integrates Buddhist principles into daily life to foster peace, compassion, and understanding. The name "Fo Guang Shan" means "Buddha’s Light Mountain," symbolizing its mission to spread Buddhist teachings and illuminate the world with wisdom and compassion.

Located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, the headquarters of Fo Guang Shan is a significant center for Buddhist education, cultural exchange, and spiritual practice. The site includes a monastery, a university, a museum, and various cultural and educational facilities. It is known for its architecture, peaceful environment, and the Fo Guang Big Buddha, which draws visitors worldwide.

Fo Guang Shan’s work goes beyond religious practice, involving social welfare, education, and cultural initiatives. The organization runs temples, schools, and cultural centers globally, building a community that promotes harmony and understanding across cultures. Events like the Chinese New Year Lantern Festival invite people from diverse backgrounds to engage with Chinese culture and Buddhist teachings, promoting peace and unity.

2025 Gangshan Light Arts Festival

The 2025 Gangshan Light Arts Festival will be held from January 25th to February 12th, with the light displays illuminated daily between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM. The festival grounds are located at Gangshan Riverside Park, Agongdian Bridge, and Jian Bridge. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the outdoors in the Gangshan suburbs during the day, and then come to the Light Arts Festival in the evening to see the lights, stroll through the market, and eat.

In addition to the light district exhibition, the festival will also feature the Shimmer Market and street artist performances during the first five days of the Lunar New Year, from January 29th to February 2nd. These special events will also run from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, providing a vibrant and festive atmosphere for all attendees. The Shimmer Market will offer a variety of goods and food, while the street artist performances will showcase local talent, ensuring there is something to satisfy every family member’s needs.

Light District Exhibition Information

• Exhibition Period: January 25th – February 12th
• Lighting Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Exhibition Location: Gangshan Riverside Park, Agongdian Bridge, Jian Bridge

Lunar New Year Special Events

• Shimmer Market X Street Artist Performances
• Event Time: January 29th – February 2nd (Lunar New Year’s Day to the fifth day)
• Event Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Public Transportation

Taiwan Railway

• Take the train to "Gangshan Train Station"

Kaohsiung Metro

• Take the MRT to "Gangshan Kaohsiung Medical University Station" or "Gangshan Station"

  • From there, take Bus Red 69 and get off at [Wenhua Street Intersection]. A short 5-minute walk will take you to Riverside Park.
  • Alternatively, take Bus Red 70A, Red 71A, or Red 71B1 and get off at [Hedi Road Intersection (Gangshan Road)]. Riverside Park is just a 3-minute walk away.
  • If you prefer, you can walk directly to the event venue from either station, which will take approximately 15 minutes.

Driving

• Option 1: Take National Highway No. 1 and exit at the Gangshan Interchange. Proceed west via County Road 186 (Jieshou East Road). After passing under the Jieshou Road Bridge, turn right onto Gangshan Road. Continue past Agongdian Bridge (Gangshan Road) and then turn left onto Hedi Road Section 2 to reach Gangshan Riverside Park.
• Option 2: Take Provincial Highway No. 1 to Hedi Road Section 2. Proceed west for about 500 meters to reach Gangshan Riverside Park.

For those planning to stay overnight, a selection of hotels near the event can be found here: 🛏️ Hotels near the event

What is Gangshan District?

Gangshan District is located in the northern part of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It is known for its mix of traditional Taiwanese culture and modern development. The district plays a significant role in Taiwan’s aerospace industry, with several manufacturing plants contributing to the aviation sector. Gangshan is also recognized for its culinary offerings, especially its mutton dishes, which are popular among food enthusiasts.

The district features several historical and cultural sites, including temples and parks, reflecting its heritage. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy traditional performances, and experience the hospitality of the residents. With convenient transportation links, including major highways and public transit, Gangshan is accessible for both locals and tourists. The Gangshan Light Arts Festival is another highlight, showcasing the district’s dedication to art and culture.