Places of interest #14 in Kaohsiung

Shoushan LOVE Lookout

4.5 · 8,604 reviews
Lively and scenic
Shoushan LOVE Lookout, No. 30號, Zhongyi Rd, Fengnan Village, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
Interesting facts
1

The viewpoint is situated on the ridgeline of a raised coral reef mountain, a distinct geological feature of the Gushan District.

2

The LOVE sculpture was installed to promote Kaohsiung as a romantic travel destination and is a common site for proposals.

3

Shoushan (also known as Longevity Mountain) was formerly a military-restricted area, which preserved much of its natural secondary forest and biodiversity.

4

The lookout serves as a home range for a large population of Formosan rock macaques, which are frequently seen near the parking and trail areas.

5

The vantage point looks directly over the narrow channel that serves as the main entrance to the Port of Kaohsiung, allowing for clear views of container ship traffic.

Overview

The Shoushan LOVE Lookout is a popular observation deck situated on the western ridge of Shoushan, featuring a signature red 'LOVE' sculpture designed for public photo opportunities. From this elevation, visitors have a panoramic vantage point over Kaohsiung City, the Port of Kaohsiung, and the Taiwan Strait. The site serves as the primary gateway to the Shoushan National Nature Park trail network. Its location on a coral limestone mountain range provides a distinct geological backdrop to the urban skyline views. The wooden viewing deck is tiered, allowing for multiple sightlines toward the harbor and the nearby Pier-2 Art Center area. It is officially managed as a landmark of the Kaohsiung tourism bureau to highlight the city's connection to the sea.

Photo spot

Directly behind the 'LOVE' sculpture, framing the city skyline and the harbor container ships in the background.

Insider tips

Store all food, plastic bags, and dangling items inside a backpack to prevent theft by local macaques.

Bring a high-capacity power bank as the reflective surface of the bay and cityscapes often encourages prolonged photography sessions.

Visit during a clear, post-rain afternoon to observe the sharpest contrast between the blue harbor water and the city buildings.

What to avoid

Do not carry plastic shopping bags in your hands, as the monkeys associate these sounds with food and may attempt to snatch them.

Etiquette

Do not feed or make prolonged eye contact with the resident wild macaques.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Sunset, as the city lights transition during the 'blue hour' while the sun sets over the Taiwan Strait.
Address
Shoushan LOVE Lookout, No. 30號, Zhongyi Rd, Fengnan Village, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
22.625, 120.274
Get directions
Details
GeologyRaised coral limestone reef
WildlifeFormosan rock macaques

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunset, as the city lights transition during the 'blue hour' while the sun sets over the Taiwan Strait..

Directly behind the 'LOVE' sculpture, framing the city skyline and the harbor container ships in the background.

Close by you'll find The Pier2 Art Center, Shoushan Zoo, Hamasen Railway Cultural Park.