Old collides with new at Pier-2 Art Center, a creative hub along Kaohsiung Harbour in Taiwan’s Yan Cheng District. Abandoned warehouses have been transformed into art galleries, workshops and exhibition spaces, which host a vibrant calendar of events, such as international music festivals, cultural celebrations and design and tech conventions.

Explore contemporary works from local and international artists at the HAM Gallery, immerse yourself in local culture at the Oyaki Warehouse, where you can catch a Taiwanese film, or pick up a novel at the famous Taiwanese bookstore, Eslite. If you’re interested in Taiwanese bands, arrive in March for the Megaport Music Festival.

As you stroll through the converted warehouses, discover colourful street art and impressive sculptures, including the bronze “Suitcase” and “Sound Tree” constructed from 2,000 kilograms of steel. After touring the exhibits, stroll along the harbourside to Sunny Hills cafe to taste their famous pineapple cake and Taiwanese tea.

Getting there

The Pier-2 Art Center is located on Dayong Road in the Yan Cheng District of Kaohsiung City. It’s a 45-minute walk from Central Park or a 15-minute train ride from Formosa Boulevard Station. Trains arrive at Yanchengpu Station, just a 450-meter walk away.