Visiting Kaohsiung in May offers several advantages:
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Fewer crowds: May is generally a less popular time to visit, resulting in shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere at attractions.
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Pleasant temperatures: While May can be warm, the temperatures are typically more comfortable than the peak summer months (July and August), making it ideal for outdoor activities.
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Festivals and events: May hosts various cultural events and festivals, such as the Kaohsiung Black and White Art Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival.
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Transportation convenience: The city’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore Kaohsiung during May, with frequent train and bus services available.
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Affordable accommodations: Due to the off-season period, accommodation rates tend to be lower in May, allowing visitors to save money on their stay.
Weather In Kaohsiung During May
May in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
May is a warm and humid month in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Here’s an overview of the weather conditions you can expect:
Temperature:
- Average high: 30-31°C (86-88°F)
- Average low: 23-24°C (73-75°F)
Days are typically hot and sunny, with temperatures reaching the low 30s (Celsius) in the afternoon. Evenings and nights are warm and humid, with temperatures rarely dropping below 23°C (73°F).
Precipitation:
- Average rainfall: 190 mm (7.5 in)
May is one of the wettest months in Kaohsiung. Expect frequent showers or thunderstorms, especially in the afternoons and evenings. The rain is typically heavy but short-lived.
Humidity:
- Average relative humidity: 75-85%
Humidity levels are high throughout the month, making the weather feel warm and muggy.
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours per day: 6-7
May receives an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. However, due to the frequent showers, the sun can be obscured for periods of time.
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 10-15 km/h (6-9 mph)
Winds are generally light and variable in May.
Other Weather Conditions:
- Occasional fog or mist can occur in the early mornings, especially near the coast.
- Typhoons (hurricanes) are possible in May, but they are not common.
Overall, May in Kaohsiung is characterized by warm and humid weather, with frequent showers and high humidity. Visitors should be prepared for rain and carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Things To Do In Kaohsiung In May
May in Kaohsiung
Festivals and Celebrations:
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Kaohsiung Moon Festival (Late May/Early June): A celebration of the full moon with traditional music, performances, lantern displays, and a fireworks show.
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Dragon Boat Festival (Early May): A traditional festival featuring dragon boat races, traditional cuisine, and special events.
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Labor Day (May 1st): A public holiday in Taiwan, often featuring parades, concerts, and family-friendly events.
Unique Attractions:
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Fo Guang Shan Monastery: The largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, renowned for its stunning architecture, vast gardens, and cultural center.
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Liuhe Night Market: One of the largest night markets in Taiwan, famous for its street food, shopping, and lively atmosphere.
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Lotus Lake: A serene lake in the heart of Kaohsiung, featuring scenic walking trails, a lotus garden, and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
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National Science and Technology Museum: An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a 3D theater.
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Chimei Museum: A private museum showcasing a vast collection of fine art, musical instruments, and antiques.
Other Things to Do:
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Explore the Pier-2 Art District: A waterfront area featuring warehouses transformed into art galleries, workshops, and restaurants.
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Take a ferry to Cijin Island: A nearby island with beaches, historic forts, and seafood restaurants.
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Visit the Love River: A scenic river that winds through the city, offering picturesque views and riverfront parks.
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Shop at Hanshin Arena: A large shopping mall with luxury brands, a movie theater, and a rooftop garden.
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Enjoy local cuisine: Taste traditional Taiwanese dishes such as oyster omelets, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea.
Tourism In Kaohsiung, Taiwan During May
Kaohsiung, Taiwan in May offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Liuhe Night Market, where tantalizing aromas and a kaleidoscope of street food stalls create a lively atmosphere. Embark on a spiritual journey at Fo Guang Shan Monastery, renowned for its stunning Buddhist architecture and serene gardens.
Explore the bustling harbor at Pier-2 Art Center, transformed from a warehouse into a thriving arts and cultural space. Discover the fascinating history and traditions of the indigenous Bunun people at the Bunun Cultural Village. Delve into maritime heritage at Kaohsiung Museum of History, housing a collection of artifacts showcasing the city’s shipbuilding and naval past.
For a taste of local life, meander through the alleys of Old Town, where traditional architecture, temples, and street vendors evoke the charm of Kaohsiung’s past. Stroll along the scenic Love River, where you can enjoy a boat ride or simply admire the cityscape from the picturesque banks.