Site Overview

Location
Known as Taiwan's "Harbor Capital" because of its close connection to the ocean and maritime transportation, Kaohsiung is a port city that sits on the island's southwestern coast. Since its start in the 17th century, Kaohsiung has grown from a small trading village into the industrial center of southern Taiwan. 

Weather
Kaohsiung's climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 35°C.

 

Population
2024: 2.731 million

Number of ETAs + ETFs
2024-25: 12 ETAs + 6 ETFs

Number of Schools
2024-25: 27 elementary + 4 junior high

Living and Teaching

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Teaching

As with other sites, Kaohsiung ETAs will co-teach with at least one local Taiwanese English teacher. Class sizes vary greatly, with typically no more than 30 students, although some ETAs have had as few as 3 students in one class.

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Living

Every year there are about 13-14 Fulbright ETAs placed in Kaohsiung county. If you'd like to know more about the daily life of a Kaohsiung ETA, go check out our Instagram page, @kaohsiungeta.

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In Kaohsiung there are a number of ways to get around the city: by bus, by scooter, by bike, by car, or by MRT. Kaohsiung is the only city besides Taipei that has an MRT, which you can also take to the Kaohsiung airport. In addition to the MRT, Kaohsiung is also connected to the HSR (high speed rail) and the Taiwan Railway (train). Recently, Kaohsiung also installed a LRT (light rail), which goes along the water to Pier 2 and Dream Mall.

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As one of Taiwan's largest cities, Kaohsiung has international cuisine, cultural and historic attractions, nightlife, and more. Check out the whimsical art district Pier 2, or take a day trip to Kenting, one of Taiwan's most famous beaches. Hiking is also an option at Monkey Mountain, whereas its namesake suggests, monkeys abound.

Coordinators

Kenny Shih
Kaohsiung's climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 35°C. Hello Kaohsing ETAs, I'm Kenny, an English major graduate of Tamkang University. After graduation, I had experience with children's storybook reading, and online tutoring and also worked as a TA at a cram school! I will say that interacting with kids is one of my passions. Some other passions are movies, investing, and a whole lot!

I joined Fulbright in 2019 and worked as the Taipei coordinator. After 2 years I'm fortunate enough to be transferred back to Kaohsiung. I'm really glad to be back since I was born and raised in Kaohsiung. The city has changed a lot and I believe it's heading in a really good direction. According to me, this place is the best city in Taiwan!

Email: kshih@fse.fulbright.org.tw

Andy Hung
Hi, I’m Andy! I’m Taiwanese but spent half my life in Indonesia, so I’ve got a mix of cultural experiences. I studied Multimedia Design at NTCUST and joined a few design and programming competitions while I was there.

In my free time, I love singing, window shopping, and playing indoor sports (except going to the gym!). I’m also into puzzles and join World Puzzle Day every year—it’s so much fun!

Word for Upcoming Grantees:

Kaohsiung is an awesome city with so much to see and do. From the modern vibe to the beautiful nature, it’s got something for everyone. Start exploring—you’ll love it here! I’m excited to meet you all. If you need any tips or advice, feel free to reach out!

Email: ahung@fse.fulbright.org.tw

Additional Site Info

2019-20 Kaohsiung ETA Monopoly Game
This board game was created by the 2019-20 Kaohsiung ETAs to showcase aspects of their daily life and some of their favorite places. Click the file to experience our life in Kaohsiung.

73 Questions with Kaohsiung
This is a video the Kaohsiung 2018-19 ETA’s created to show the various parts of living in Kaohsiung, we took a Vogue-style 73 questions video showcasing the city center, famous landmarks, and the beauty of rural Kaohsiung. Enjoy!