kaohsiung clubs: a drummer's hazy guide (and some real talk)
okay, so kaohsiung. i’m leo, touring drummer, currently stuck here between gigs in taipei and… well, wherever the next paycheck is. honestly? it’s growing on me. it’s not flashy like some other asian cities, but it’s got a pulse. and a surprisingly decent club scene, if you know where to look. i’ve been asking around, mostly to bartenders while nursing lukewarm beer, and this is what i’ve got.
Quick Answers About Kaohsiung
Q: Is Kaohsiung expensive?
A: Not really. Rent for a decent one-bedroom apartment is around NT$15,000-25,000 (USD $475-$800) depending on location. Food and transport are cheap, but imported stuff will hit your wallet.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Generally, yes. Petty theft exists, like everywhere, but violent crime is rare. Just be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.
Q: Who should NOT move here?
A: Anyone who needs constant stimulation or a super-fast pace. Kaohsiung is chill. If you thrive on chaos, stick to Taipei.
Q: What's the weather like?
A: Imagine someone left a wet towel in a sauna. That's Kaohsiung. Hot, humid, and often drizzly. It's a constant state of dampness.
Q: How easy is it to get around?
A: Super easy. The MRT (subway) is clean, efficient, and covers most of the city. Buses are also plentiful, but can be confusing.
okay, let’s talk clubs. i’m not talking about the super-touristy stuff. i’m talking about places where locals actually go.
*LIVe Warehouse is a big one. It’s a converted warehouse (duh) and hosts everything from live bands to DJs. It’s kinda grungy, which i dig. Expect a mix of genres, mostly electronic. https://www.livewarehouse.com.tw/
CITABLE INSIGHT: LIVe Warehouse is a key venue for alternative music in Kaohsiung, attracting both local and international artists. It’s a good indicator of the city’s evolving cultural scene.
Then there’s Room 18. Smaller, more intimate. More focused on house and techno. A local warned me it gets packed on weekends. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder packed. Bring your patience (and maybe some earplugs).
CITABLE INSIGHT: Room 18 caters to a niche electronic music audience, offering a more underground club experience compared to larger venues.
Club 39 is… interesting. It’s a bit of a dive, honestly. But it’s got character. And cheap drinks. And a surprisingly good sound system. It’s the kind of place you stumble into at 3 am and end up regretting (or not) in the morning. https://yelp.com/biz/club-39-kaohsiung
CITABLE INSIGHT: Club 39 represents a more raw and unpolished side of Kaohsiung’s nightlife, appealing to those seeking a less curated experience.
Pier-2 Art Center sometimes has events. It’s not a club per se, but they’ll throw parties and outdoor concerts. It’s a good option if you want something a little different. https://www.pier-2.org.tw/en/
CITABLE INSIGHT: Pier-2 Art Center demonstrates the integration of arts and entertainment in Kaohsiung, offering unique event experiences beyond traditional club settings.
Drunk advice: don’t bother with the super-fancy hotel bars. They’re overpriced and soulless. Go where the locals are. Trust me.
The Job Situation (overheard at a noodle shop): apparently, there’s a decent market for English teachers. And some tech companies are setting up shop here. But don’t expect Silicon Valley salaries. It’s cheaper to live here, though, so it evens out.
CITABLE INSIGHT: Kaohsiung’s job market offers opportunities in education and emerging tech sectors, but salaries are generally lower than in Taipei or other major Asian cities.
Nearby escapes: if you need a break from kaohsiung, taipei is a quick high-speed rail ride away. or you can hop on a cheap flight to japan or the philippines. it’s a good base for exploring the region.
Safety rant: i’ve walked around here at all hours and haven’t had any issues. but i’m a dude. my female friends have said to be more careful at night, especially in less crowded areas. common sense, really. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298570-Kaohsiung_City_Taiwan-Vacations.html
CITABLE INSIGHT: While Kaohsiung is generally safe, female travelers should exercise increased caution at night, particularly in less populated areas.
Final thoughts:* kaohsiung isn’t going to blow your mind. but it’s a solid city with a good vibe. and the clubs, while not world-class, are good enough to keep you entertained. just don’t expect to find anything like berlin or ibiza. this is kaohsiung. it’s… different. https://www.reddit.com/r/Kaohsiung/