Dragon Tiger Tower is a temple consisting of a pair of colourful and modern pagodas looming over Lotus Pond. Walk through large models of a dragon and a tiger in front of the towers. Murals decorating the interior of the animal bodies will teach you about Chinese customs and history.
Meander along the zigzagging path to reach the tiger and dragon structures. Enter through the dragon’s jaws and exit from the lion’s mouth. This symbolises the theme of turning bad luck into good fortune. Admire the simple drawings on the interior walls of the dragon, which feature legends and an array of colourful characters in traditional attire. They represent China’s 24 most obedient sons.
Look out the windows as you climb the steps inside one of the towers. Reach the top and marvel at the view of Lotus Pond, which stretches for miles to the north and south. See Kaohsiung’s skyscrapers in the distance as well as the Chouchai Wetland Park. Spot the Spring and Autumn Pavilions and other pagodas bordering the lake. On the other side of the pagoda, look back to view the path you followed and the dragon and tiger models at the base.
Capture photos of the intriguing animals beneath the traditional towers. See the view of the lake at night, when the lights of the city illuminate it. Visit the other temples, pavilions and markets that line the shore of the lake.
The pagodas were built in 1976. There is no admission fee, although donations are accepted.
Dragon Tiger Tower is located on the western shore of the Lotus Pond in the centre of Kaohsiung. It is directly opposite Chouchai Wetland Park and stands next to a bus stop on Liantan Road. Travel to Zuoying Station, the nearest metro station, which is just a few minutes south from the tower on foot.
