Silently guarding the historical monuments of Kaohsiung Port #​Cijin Qihou Fort - Cijin District, Kaohsiung City

#AugustDestinations2025 Besides the expansive beaches, bustling old streets, and beautiful lighthouses of Cijin, Kaohsiung, lies a historic landmark: the Qihou Fort. Quietly perched atop a mountain, it overlooks the mouth of Kaohsiung Harbor and has witnessed the city's rise and fall over the centuries. While the history of the Qihou Fort dates back to the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, it truly became a vital military fortress during the Tongzhi period. To defend against naval threats, the Qing court commissioned British engineers to design and construct this sturdy, Western-style fort. It is not only a representative example of modern Taiwanese fortifications, but also played a pivotal role in history. During the Sino-French War and the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895, the Qihou Fort fought bravely against foreign invasions, serving as a crucial barrier protecting Kaohsiung. Despite the ravages of war and the passage of time, the creaking walls and remaining gun mounts bear witness to a war-torn past. The architectural style of the Qihou Fort is a unique blend of traditional Chinese and Western military engineering. The fort's entrance is designed in the shape of an eight-shaped gate. The brick carvings on the entrance wall, such as the character "囍" (囍) and bat patterns, are imbued with a rich sense of classical Chinese charm. From the fort's commanding vantage point, you can take in the stunning views of Kaohsiung Harbor, the Cijin coastline, and Xizi Bay across the water. The Qihou Fort is more than just a historical relic; it's like a three-dimensional history book chronicling the origins and defenses of Kaohsiung Harbor. Next time you visit Cijin, why not experience the grandeur of this ancient fort firsthand? Reminisce about the wars of a century ago and feel its resilience, enduring the vicissitudes of time.