Shoushan National Nature Park

Shoushan National Nature Park is a nature reserve and national park spanning limestone hills, coral reef zones, and wooded slopes across Kaohsiung. Multiple trails connect different sections, allowing visitors to move through varied terrain and observe diverse ecosystems throughout the area.

The Makatao people inhabited these hills thousands of years ago, leaving behind artifacts that show their settlement patterns. The area later became protected as preservation efforts grew, eventually establishing the formal park to maintain its environmental value.

The name Shoushan means "Lion Mountain" and reflects how locals have long viewed this place as a significant natural landmark. Visitors today walk paths that pass through recovering forests and restored habitats where people observe the regeneration process firsthand.

The park is accessible by public buses and has parking areas at main entrances for visitors with personal vehicles. Wear sturdy footwear for the trails, as sections include steep inclines and uneven ground that require careful footing.

The park is home to a thriving population of Formosan rock macaques that roam the slopes and frequently encounter hikers on the trails. These wild primates are visible year-round and create memorable encounters during most visits to the area.