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With a history that dates back to 4000 B.C., Kaohsiung is one of the most culturally enriched places in Taiwan. Kaohsiung’s history begins with the Austronesian settlers and moves on to the migrants who settled here only 1000 years back. Chinese influences were first felt here in the 12th or 13th centuries, as it came under the Mongol control. Dutch and Spanish settlements too left their marks here in the 16th century, though the Chinese domination had by then been the most evident one. As multiple races converged here, Kaohsiung emerged as a land of rich and varied culture. Kaohsiung is now the second largest city of Taiwan and makes room for a huge population of 1.5 million people. With the best of modern infrastructure, it has now emerged as an important commercial and industrial centre. Kaohsiung boasts of a seaport that is not only the largest in Taiwan, but also the third largest container port in the world! With wide streets, world class facilities and a pleasant climate, the city is indeed a pleasant host to its tourists. Major attractions: The Shoushan Mountains, locally called the Longevity Mountain Park gives excellent vistas of the city below, though fog may be a major barrier at times. The mountain has a number of temples and shrines including a renowned Martyrs' Shrine. The visitors also have a few historical monuments to see here. The Three Phoenix Palace on the Hopei Road is the biggest temple of Kaohsiung. Housing the shrine of the demon Li Na-cha, the temple is a fascinating place with its stone lions, gilded Buddha idols and oriental decors. Access: Kaohsiung can be easily accessed by trains, buses. It takes around 6 hours to drive to the city down the North-South Highway. Kaohsiung has an international airport with direct flights from Hong Kong and other major cities.
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