The complete guide to caving at Kaohsiung's Chaishan: nail it on your first try

Chaishan (Shoushan) in Kaohsiung hides dozens of limestone caves — one of the few places in Taiwan where you can go caving right at the edge of the city. This article covers everything you need to know for your first time.

Basic gear

Gear you'll need for caving: - **Headlamp** (essential — it's pitch black inside) - **Helmet** (limestone cave ceilings are uneven) - **Gloves** (for gripping the rock walls) - **Non-slip or sport shoes** (it's damp inside) - **Long sleeves and trousers** (against insects and scrapes)

If you join Andy Lee's tour, the basic gear is all provided.

Who is it for?

Chaishan caving suits anyone aged 6 and up with basic fitness. No climbing experience is needed, but you should be able to crouch, bend, and occasionally squeeze sideways through narrow passages. If you have severe claustrophobia, assess carefully first.

Best season

You can cave year-round, but October to the following April is the most comfortable (cooler, fewer insects). In the rainy season (June–August) some caves may flood, and the guide will adjust the route as conditions require.

Safety notes

• Never enter a cave alone — the risk of getting lost is very high
• Follow the guide's instructions at all times
• Don't touch the stalactites inside (they take tens of thousands of years to form and break at a touch)
• Watch your step and your head

Recommended tour

On our platform, Andy Lee is the Chaishan caving expert — a ranger at Shoushan National Nature Park who has led hundreds of groups. The tour runs about 3–4 hours, NT$2,000 per person.

🗺️ Ready to set off?