Hsitzu Bay (Hsitzuwan)

The Hsitzu Bay (Hsitzuwan) is located in Kaohsiung City's Gushan District. The bay is perched on the sea at the western edge of the city, just southwest of Mt Shou (Shoushan), with the Chijin Peninsula stretching southward.

The bay's main feature is a swimming beach known for its clear blue water, the beauty of its sunsets, and its natural reef. The atmosphere and the scenery here change from morning to night; each moment of the day has its special attraction, but the brilliant colors of the sunset are unparalleled in their beauty. The long breakwater here is the landmark of the bay. Basking in the sea breeze on the breakwater gives the most pleasant and comfortable sensation imaginable. The vessels both large and small scattered like stars on the surface of the sea are entertained by the intermittent sound of foghorns. As the day darkens and the air of romance deepens, pairs of lovers stroll along the breakwater, listening to the waves and watching the lights of fishing boats on the sea. From the parking lot at the entrance to the bay, one can also get a good view of the Kaohsiung Harbor.

The National Sun Yat-sen University is situated within the Hsitzu Bay Scenic Area, adding a bit more of a cultural flavor. Around the bay, in addition to the swimming beach, one can also find a saltwater aquarium and the Chijin Coastline Park (Seashore Park). The swimming beach has fine, soft sand and a grove of stately coconut palms, filling the area with the flavor of the South Seas. In the summer, this is a perfect place to enjoy the water, play beach volleyball, and sunbathe. In peak seasons, the crowds here are dense and the activities intense. Lounging under a palm tree and basking in the soft cool breeze as the sun goes down is an experience that lifts one out of the mundane world.