Tianliao Moon World
Explore Taiwan's 'moonscape' at Tianliao Moon World, a unique badlands park offering otherworldly views and a popular hot air balloon festival.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid summer heat
Tianliao Moon World
Best Time
Avoid summer heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Taiwan's 'moonscape' at Tianliao Moon World, a unique badlands park offering otherworldly views and a popular hot air balloon festival.
"A trip to the 'moon' without leaving Taiwan! Truly otherworldly."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Event Dates
The hot air balloon festival is a major draw. Plan your visit around these dates for a special experience. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alien Landscape
The entire park
Explore the unique badlands terrain that resembles the moon's surface. A truly otherworldly experience.
Scenic Walking Paths
Various trails throughout the park
Wander through designated paths offering stunning views of the eroded landscape. Great for photography.
Hot Air Balloon Festival
Moon World Park
Witness or ride in colorful hot air balloons during specific festival dates. A magical sight against the unique backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Moon World
Getting to Tianliao Moon World
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Event Dates
The hot air balloon festival is a major draw. Plan your visit around these dates for a special experience. :calendar:
Bring Water & Sun Protection
Even in cooler months, the sun can be strong. Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Public Transport Info
Bus R70B from Gangshan TRA/MRT Station is an option, but can be slow. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Event Dates
The hot air balloon festival is a major draw. Plan your visit around these dates for a special experience. :calendar:
Bring Water & Sun Protection
Even in cooler months, the sun can be strong. Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Public Transport Info
Bus R70B from Gangshan TRA/MRT Station is an option, but can be slow. :bus:
Address Accuracy
Confirm the exact address as there might be slight variations in listings. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique, moon-like badlands landscape, often describing it as otherworldly and a fantastic spot for photography. The hot air balloon festival is a major highlight, adding a vibrant spectacle. However, some find the journey challenging and note that summer visits can be uncomfortably hot.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common public transport route is to take bus R70B from Gangshan TRA/MRT Station. Some visitors opt for taxis or ride-sharing services for a more direct journey. :bus: +1
While public transport is available, it can be time-consuming. Many travelers find it more convenient to use taxis or ride-sharing, especially if they have limited time. :car:
The address is generally listed as No. 34 or 36, Moon Road, Tianliao District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. It's always a good idea to double-check your navigation app. :round_pushpin: +2
Yes, driving is an option, and there is usually parking available. This offers flexibility, especially if you are exploring other parts of Kaohsiung. :parking:
Travel time can vary significantly depending on your mode of transport and traffic. By public transport, it can take over an hour, while a taxi might be around 40-50 minutes. :clock:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tianliao Moon World is generally free to enter, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. :ticket:
The park is typically open throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours to appreciate the unique landscape. Specific event hours, like for the hot air balloon festival, will vary. :sunriseovermountains:
Since entry is generally free, advance booking is not required for the park itself. However, if you plan to participate in specific events like hot air balloon rides, booking might be necessary. :credit_card:
Yes, the most popular event is the Kaohsiung 'Love & Moon Hot Air Balloon Festival,' usually held in September or October. Check local listings for exact dates. :balloon: +1
Hot air balloon rides during the festival typically cost around 500 NTD for a 5-minute ride. Prices can vary, so confirm on the day. :moneybag:
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The entire landscape offers unique photographic opportunities. Look for elevated spots and walking paths that provide panoramic views of the badlands. :camera:
Yes, sunset can cast a beautiful glow on the unique terrain, creating dramatic shadows and colors. The elevated areas offer great vantage points. :city_sunset:
Expect a 'badlands' geological formation with eroded, barren terrain that strikingly resembles the moon's surface. :milky_way:
While not explicitly named, the higher points along the walking paths offer the most expansive and impressive views for photography. :mountain:
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the park to avoid any issues. :drone:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique badlands landscape, walk along scenic paths, and enjoy the otherworldly views. During festival times, hot air balloon rides are a major attraction. :hiking_boot:
Yes, it can be interesting for families, especially if they enjoy unique natural landscapes. However, the terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. :family_amp:
A visit can range from 1-3 hours, depending on how much you want to explore and if you're participating in any special activities like hot air balloon rides. :timer_clock:
Basic facilities are usually available within the park, but it's always a good idea to check beforehand or be prepared. :restroom:
The terrain is characterized by eroded earth and can be uneven. While there are walking paths, comfortable and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. :hiking_boot:
🕐 ☀️ Weather & Best Time to Visit
The cooler months, from October to March, are ideal to avoid the intense summer heat and enjoy the landscape more comfortably. :snowflake:
Yes, visiting in the summer can be very hot and uncomfortable due to the exposed terrain. Travelers recommend visiting during cooler seasons. :thermometer_face:
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for photography and potentially fewer crowds. Avoid midday during warmer months. :sunwithface:
While rain can shape the landscape, heavy rainfall might make some paths slippery or inaccessible. Check weather forecasts before your visit. :umbrella:
Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the terrain. :tshirt: :hiking_boot:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler months to make the experience more comfortable for everyone. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also advisable, as facilities might be limited. While the 'alien' landscape is a hit, the lack of extensive play areas means it's more of a scenic exploration than a playground visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Look for elevated viewpoints along the walking trails to get panoramic shots of the vast, eroded landscape. The hot air balloon festival offers a unique opportunity to capture vibrant balloons against the muted tones of the badlands, adding an extra layer of visual interest to your portfolio. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find yourself taking more photos than you anticipated.
+1🚶 Adventurous Explorers
If you visit during the hot air balloon festival, you can add an element of aerial adventure to your trip. For those who enjoy a bit of a challenge, the uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure. It's a great destination for those looking to step away from typical tourist spots and discover something truly different in Taiwan. Consider combining your visit with other natural attractions in the Kaohsiung region for a more comprehensive exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Tianliao Moon World
The area's soil is rich in mudstone, which is easily eroded. This constant process of weathering and erosion is what gives Moon World its distinctive, almost alien appearance. Visitors can observe the intricate patterns carved by nature, a testament to the powerful forces shaping our planet. It's a stark contrast to the lush greenery often found elsewhere in Taiwan, offering a truly unique visual experience.
While the landscape is the main draw, the park also features walking paths and observation decks designed to allow visitors to safely explore and appreciate the scenery. These paths are crucial for understanding the scale and complexity of the badlands formations. For geology buffs, it's a living laboratory showcasing natural erosion processes.
Experiencing the Kaohsiung Hot Air Balloon Festival
Festival attendees have the opportunity to witness the balloons during their morning and afternoon sessions, which are scheduled around sunrise and sunset for optimal viewing and flight conditions. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can opt for a hot air balloon ride, offering a bird's-eye view of Moon World and the surrounding Kaohsiung countryside. These rides are usually priced around 500 NTD for a short duration.
It's important to note that this festival attracts significant crowds, so planning your visit accordingly is key. Checking the official festival dates and times in advance is highly recommended, as they can vary year to year. The festival provides a magical, albeit busy, dimension to the Tianliao Moon World experience.
Navigating Tianliao Moon World: Transport and Accessibility
For a more convenient and time-efficient trip, many visitors opt for taxis or ride-sharing services. This is particularly recommended if you are traveling with family or have mobility concerns, as it allows for a direct route to the park entrance. While it incurs a higher cost, the ease of access is often worth it for a more relaxed experience.
Once at Tianliao Moon World, the park features walking paths that allow visitors to explore the unique badlands. While these paths are designed for accessibility, the terrain itself is uneven and can be challenging. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the area safely and enjoying the views without discomfort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit