Shoushan Zoo Kaohsiung
Affordable Kaohsiung zoo with unique attractions like a café in a former cage, plus nearby hiking on Monkey Mountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Shoushan Zoo Kaohsiung
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Affordable Kaohsiung zoo with unique attractions like a café in a former cage, plus nearby hiking on Monkey Mountain.
"Affordable, compact, and unique - a great family outing with a special café and nearby nature."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo paths can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🐒 Respect the Macaques
Formosan rock macaques are wild. Keep your distance and never feed them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Capybara Encounters
Capybara enclosure
Meet Taiwan's beloved 'ugly-cute' giant rodents, with new baby capybaras often a special attraction.
Light Is Café
Former chimpanzee cage
Enjoy coffee in a unique café repurposed from an old chimpanzee enclosure, offering a reflective experience.
Formosan Black Bears
Bear enclosure
See the iconic Formosan black bear, a native species that highlights the zoo's conservation efforts.
Splash Pad Fun
Children's area
A refreshing splash pad offers a fun way for kids to cool down during Kaohsiung's tropical heat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Shoushan Zoo and Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo paths can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🐒 Respect the Macaques
Formosan rock macaques are wild. Keep your distance and never feed them.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kaohsiung can be hot. Bring water or purchase it at the zoo.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by visiting right when the zoo opens.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo paths can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🐒 Respect the Macaques
Formosan rock macaques are wild. Keep your distance and never feed them.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kaohsiung can be hot. Bring water or purchase it at the zoo.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the heat and crowds by visiting right when the zoo opens.
🎟️ Check Ticket Options
Tickets are affordable, with options for group bookings and online purchases.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shoushan Zoo offers an affordable and compact experience, particularly appealing for families with its splash pad and unique 'Light Is' Café. While some visitors note older enclosures and a limited number of animals, recent renovations aim to improve conditions and focus on conservation. Its proximity to Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) adds to its appeal for a combined nature and wildlife outing.
"Do NOT visit this zoo. There are hardly any animals and the ones that are there look miserable, living in dirty enclosures that haven’t been cleaned in years.
Yes, the entrance fee is very cheap. But I would much rather pay more, have the funds go towards caring for the animals and see them living in a clean space.
The atmosphere of the zoo is not nice and you can feel the pain of the animals. It almost feels as though the zoo has been closed for years and you’re just walking around looking at a few animals that were left behind. Very sad experience overall."
Katie Haywood
"Shoushan Zoo, located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a great destination for families and animal lovers. Recently renovated, the zoo offers a cleaner, more spacious environment for both visitors and animals. It is home to over 70 species, including Formosan black bears, Bengal tigers, and various exotic birds.
One of the highlights of Shoushan Zoo is its focus on conservation and education. The zoo provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that teach visitors about wildlife protection. The enclosures are designed to resemble natural habitats, giving animals a more comfortable living space.
The zoo is quite affordable, with an entrance fee of only NT$40 for adults, making it one of the cheapest zoos in Taiwan. However, the walking paths are quite steep, which might be challenging for some visitors. The zoo is also relatively small compared to others, so it can be explored within a few hours.
A major advantage of visiting Shoushan Zoo is its location near Shoushan (Monkey Mountain). Visitors can enjoy a hike before or after their zoo trip, making it a perfect day out in nature. Additionally, the zoo is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for tourists.
Shoushan Zoo is a great place to visit, especially for families with children. While it may not be the biggest or most modern zoo, its affordability, educational value, and scenic surroundings make it a worthwhile stop in Kaohsiung."
Xuan Cuong Trinh
"Not a large zoo. Few animals for each species. Mostly they are hidden in the area where you can’t see. Traveling there requires bus. The zoo will take you 2-3 hours to complete. Entrance fee 40twd/person."
Pol Rujipimolkit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is to take bus 56 directly from Kaohsiung Main Station. It will drop you off right at the zoo entrance. You can use the same bus to return to the city center or connect to the MRT.
Yes, Shoushan Zoo is easily accessible by public transportation, primarily via bus routes like the 56.
Bus routes are generally the most recommended method. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date route information based on your starting point.
While specific details on parking availability can vary, public transport is highly encouraged due to potential limited parking and the zoo's accessibility.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, but it's advisable to check distances and consider the Kaohsiung heat. Public transport is generally more efficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shoushan Zoo is very affordable, with an entrance fee of NT$40 for adults. Group tickets are also available at a discounted rate.
Yes, you can purchase tickets online in advance, which is recommended, especially for weekend visits. Some sources mention booking through platforms like Klook. 
The zoo is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays. The last entry is usually at 4:30 PM.
Yes, there are discounted tickets for students and group rates for parties of twenty or more.
Yes, the zoo is relatively compact and can be explored within 2-3 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo houses over 70 species, including Formosan black bears, Bengal tigers, various exotic birds, and the popular capybaras. You might also spot friendly goats and monkeys.
A unique attraction is the 'Light Is' Café, housed in a former chimpanzee cage, offering a reflective dining experience.
Yes, it's a great family destination with a splash pad for kids to cool off in the heat.
Reviews are mixed; some enclosures are updated and spacious, while others may appear older. The zoo has undergone renovations to improve conditions.
Absolutely! Shoushan Zoo is located near Shoushan (Monkey Mountain), which offers hiking trails with scenic views and opportunities to see wild macaques.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are simple eateries within the zoo. The 'Light Is' Café, located in a former chimpanzee cage, offers a unique dining experience.
Expect typical zoo fare. The 'Light Is' Café offers coffee and a chance to reflect on animal-human relationships.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's generally advisable to check the zoo's policy on outside food. However, the zoo is compact, so bringing snacks might be convenient.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's best to inquire at the food stalls directly or consider bringing your own food if you have strict dietary needs.
Pricing details for the café are not widely available, but it's positioned as a unique experience rather than a budget dining spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Light Is' Café offers a unique backdrop. Enclosures with good viewing angles and the surrounding natural landscape of Shoushan are also great for photos.
Yes, photography of the animals is generally permitted, but always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions to avoid disturbing the animals.
While not explicitly stated, avoid using flash photography directly at animals, as it can startle them. Respect any designated no-photography zones.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer lighting, which is ideal for animal photography. This also coincides with times when animals might be more active.
The renovated enclosures and the unique 'Light Is' Café provide excellent, modern photo opportunities that highlight the zoo's improvements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With over 70 species, there's plenty to keep young minds engaged. The zoo's compact size means you can explore it without exhausting little legs, and the nearby Shoushan offers opportunities for gentle walks. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and keep an eye on the kids, especially near the macaque areas.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a hike up the free Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) for stunning views, or utilize Kaohsiung's efficient public transport system to reach the zoo, further saving on costs. Pack your own water and snacks to maximize savings.
🌿 Nature & Hiking Enthusiasts
After your hike, cool down and explore the zoo's animal exhibits. The zoo's location provides a great opportunity to experience both urban wildlife and natural mountain landscapes in a single outing. Just remember to be cautious of the macaques on the mountain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique 'Light Is' Café
Visiting the café offers a chance to reflect on the relationship between humans and animals. Sipping your coffee within the former cage provides a distinct perspective, making it a meaningful experience beyond just a place to grab a drink. It's a testament to the zoo's efforts in repurposing spaces and creating thoughtful visitor experiences.
This café has become a popular spot for its novelty and the reflective atmosphere it provides. It’s a great example of how zoos can innovate and create engaging attractions that also carry a message about animal welfare and conservation.
+1Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) and the Macaques
Visitors often combine a trip to the zoo with a hike up Shoushan. The trails offer beautiful views of Kaohsiung city and the coast. However, it's crucial to be aware that these macaques are wild animals. They are known to be quite bold and may approach visitors, sometimes aggressively, in search of food.
It's essential to maintain a safe distance, never feed the monkeys, and secure your belongings. While the idea of interacting with them might be tempting, especially for animal lovers, the advice from locals and experienced visitors is to observe them from afar to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the macaques.
Conservation and Renovation Efforts
These efforts are part of a broader focus on conservation and education. The zoo provides interactive exhibits and programs designed to teach visitors about wildlife protection and the importance of native species like the Formosan black bear.
While some older enclosures may still be present, the ongoing renovations signal a commitment to modernizing the zoo and prioritizing the well-being of its diverse collection of over 70 species.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit