
Checking the Kaohsiung monthly weather is an important part of planning a family trip to southern Taiwan. Packing only for the daytime temperature can leave children feeling cold inside heavily air-conditioned trains, restaurants, and shopping malls. Sudden rain can also soak shoes, strollers, and bags, making the rest of the day uncomfortable.
Kaohsiung remains relatively warm throughout the year, but the weather changes considerably between the dry and rainy seasons. During summer, high temperatures, strong sunshine, humidity, tropical showers, and the possibility of typhoons must all be considered.
This guide explains the Kaohsiung weather by month, including typical temperature ranges, rainfall patterns, recommended clothing, family travel tips, and weather conditions to watch for. It is designed to help families choose the best time to visit and pack more efficiently.
Kaohsiung Weather by Season
Kaohsiung has a warm climate throughout the year, but rainfall varies significantly by season.
The period from November to March is generally drier and more comfortable. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm, while mornings, evenings, and coastal areas can feel cooler because of the wind. This is usually a comfortable period for outdoor attractions, waterfront walks, and family sightseeing.
Temperatures and humidity begin to rise in April. Rain becomes more frequent from May, and the hottest and wettest conditions usually occur between June and September.
October is a transitional month. Rain usually becomes less frequent, but daytime temperatures can still feel like summer, especially during the first half of the month.
Families should therefore check more than the average temperature. Rainfall, humidity, sunshine, wind, and the difference between outdoor heat and indoor air conditioning can all affect how comfortable a trip feels.
Kaohsiung Monthly Weather Overview
| Month | Typical Temperature | Rainfall Pattern | General Conditions | Recommended Clothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Around 16–23°C | Usually dry | Mild days and cool evenings | Light long sleeves, cardigan, trousers |
| February | Around 17–24°C | One of the drier months | Warm days with occasional cool periods | Shirt, light jacket, comfortable shoes |
| March | Around 19–26°C | Generally dry | Warm during the day | T-shirt, light outer layer, cotton trousers |
| April | Around 22–28°C | Rain gradually increases | Warmer and more humid | T-shirt, breathable trousers, light shirt |
| May | Around 25–30°C | Rainy season begins | Hot, humid, and showery | Quick-drying clothes, umbrella, water-resistant shoes |
| June | Around 26–31°C | Frequent heavy rain | Very hot and humid | Performance T-shirt, shorts, sandals |
| July | Around 26–32°C | Heavy showers possible | Intense sunshine and heat | Lightweight summer clothes, hat, sun umbrella |
| August | Around 26–31°C | One of the wettest months | Hot, humid, and changeable | Quick-drying clothes, raincoat, water-resistant sandals |
| September | Around 25–31°C | Showers and typhoons possible | Persistent summer heat | T-shirt, shorts, light outer layer, umbrella |
| October | Around 24–30°C | Rain gradually decreases | Hot days and more comfortable evenings | T-shirt, light shirt, breathable trousers |
| November | Around 21–28°C | Usually drier | Warm and comfortable | T-shirt, cardigan, long trousers |
| December | Around 18–25°C | Usually dry | Mild days and cool evenings | Light long sleeves, cardigan or jacket |
These temperature ranges are intended as a general planning guide. Actual conditions can vary from year to year, so families should check the latest local forecast shortly before departure.

January Weather in Kaohsiung
January is one of the coolest months in Kaohsiung, with typical temperatures ranging from about 16°C to 23°C.
The word “cool” is relative in southern Taiwan. Daytime conditions are often mild and pleasant, particularly when the sky is clear. On sunny afternoons, some travelers may feel comfortable in a T-shirt.
Mornings and evenings can feel considerably cooler. This is especially noticeable around the harbor, Cijin Island, Love River, and other open waterfront areas where the wind can lower the apparent temperature.
Rain is generally limited, making January a convenient month for outdoor sightseeing. Families can comfortably plan visits to Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, Cijin Island, and waterfront promenades without needing to escape the midday heat as often as they would in summer.
Adults can wear a T-shirt or light long-sleeved top with trousers. A cardigan, windbreaker, or light jacket should be kept in the day bag. Children are usually more comfortable in several light layers that can be removed during the afternoon and added again after sunset.
Families traveling with grandparents should pack a thin knit top or lightweight insulated jacket. A heavy winter coat is rarely needed for ordinary city sightseeing, but an occasional cold spell can make the weather feel cooler than expected.
Weather to Watch in January
- Cool wind around the harbor and coastline
- Noticeable temperature changes after sunset
- Cooler conditions on cloudy days
- Strong ultraviolet exposure on clear afternoons
February Weather in Kaohsiung
February is generally mild, with temperatures of approximately 17°C to 24°C. It is also one of the drier times of the year.
Clear afternoons can feel warm enough for short sleeves. However, cloudy weather, wind, or a passing cold air mass may temporarily make the city feel cooler.
February is suitable for combining outdoor sightseeing with evening markets. Families can visit Lotus Pond or Cijin Island during the day and explore a night market after sunset without dealing with the extreme summer heat.
A T-shirt, thin long-sleeved shirt, or lightweight blouse works well during the day. Pack a cardigan or light jacket for children, particularly if the itinerary includes a ferry ride or a long evening outdoors.
Travelers who are sensitive to cold may prefer long trousers and a thin knit top. Indoor heating may also feel different from what travelers from colder countries expect, so a removable layer remains useful indoors.
If your trip coincides with the Lunar New Year period, check the opening schedules of attractions, restaurants, and transportation services in advance. Popular areas and intercity transport can also become busier during the holiday.
Weather to Watch in February
- Cool conditions on cloudy or windy days
- Differences between daytime and evening temperatures
- Strong sunshine during clear afternoons
- Short periods of lower-than-average temperatures
March Weather in Kaohsiung
March temperatures usually range from approximately 19°C to 26°C. The beginning of the month can retain some of the mild winter feeling, while the end of March is noticeably warmer.
Short sleeves are often comfortable during the afternoon. Under direct sunshine, the temperature may feel closer to early summer than spring.
Rain is generally less disruptive than during the main wet season, which makes March a favorable month for outdoor family itineraries. Cijin Island, Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, and the harbor area can be combined without the same level of heat-related fatigue experienced in midsummer.
A T-shirt and cotton trousers are suitable for most daytime activities. Carry a light shirt, cardigan, or thin windbreaker for the morning, evening, ferry rides, and strongly air-conditioned spaces.
Children who perspire heavily should have at least one spare T-shirt in the day bag. Changing out of damp clothing before entering an air-conditioned train or shopping mall can help prevent discomfort.
Weather to Watch in March
- Increasing warmth toward the end of the month
- Stronger midday ultraviolet exposure
- Occasional humid or cloudy periods
- Temperature differences between outdoor and indoor spaces
April Weather in Kaohsiung
April is significantly warmer, with typical temperatures around 22°C to 28°C. It marks the transition into early summer conditions.
Morning temperatures are usually comfortable, but the afternoon can feel hot and increasingly humid. A temperature of 28°C may feel warmer than expected when there is little breeze and humidity is high.
Rain gradually becomes more frequent as the month progresses. While continuous rain is not guaranteed, short showers become more likely. Families should carry a compact umbrella even when the morning appears clear.
Breathable T-shirts, lightweight trousers, shorts, and comfortable walking shoes are suitable. A thin shirt or cardigan remains important because air conditioning can be strong inside metro trains, department stores, restaurants, and museums.
Families using a stroller may find a lightweight blanket useful during naps in air-conditioned spaces. However, thick blankets and heavy outerwear are generally unnecessary.
Outdoor attractions are still manageable, but families should begin scheduling longer rest periods and avoiding overly ambitious walking routes during the warmest part of the afternoon.
Weather to Watch in April
- Rapidly increasing temperature and humidity
- Dehydration during afternoon sightseeing
- Short, unexpected rain showers
- Strong air conditioning indoors

May Weather in Kaohsiung
May temperatures generally range from approximately 25°C to 30°C. Evenings remain warm, and the combination of heat and humidity can make the weather feel hotter than the temperature suggests.
Rain increases considerably during May. A clear morning does not guarantee a dry afternoon, and a short tropical shower can produce a large amount of rain in a limited period.
Humidity often remains high after the rain stops. Clothes and shoes may dry slowly, so heavy denim and thick sneakers can become uncomfortable if they get wet.
Quick-drying T-shirts, lightweight trousers, shorts, or a breathable dress are practical choices. Each child should have at least one complete change of clothes as well as spare socks.
A waterproof pouch is useful for wet clothing. Passports, mobile phones, portable chargers, and other electronics should be stored in a separate water-resistant compartment.
Plan outdoor sightseeing in the morning and keep an indoor attraction available for the afternoon. Pier-2 Art Center and nearby indoor spaces can be helpful because the itinerary can be adjusted without traveling a long distance.
Weather to Watch in May
- The beginning of the main rainy period
- Sudden heavy showers
- High humidity after rainfall
- Slippery pavements and stairs
- Heat and dehydration during long walks
June Weather in Kaohsiung
June is hot and humid, with typical temperatures of approximately 26°C to 31°C. Warm conditions can begin early in the morning and continue well into the evening.
Rain is frequent and may be intense. A small umbrella may not fully protect children, bags, or a stroller during a heavy tropical shower.
Pack a lightweight poncho for children and a rain cover for the stroller. Clothing should be breathable and quick to dry. Performance T-shirts, shorts, loose dresses, and thin trousers are generally more comfortable than heavy cotton clothing.
Water-resistant sandals can be practical, but they should have a slip-resistant sole. Smooth flip-flops may be unsafe on wet station stairs, tiled walkways, and pavements.
A practical family itinerary starts with outdoor sightseeing between approximately 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The hottest part of the afternoon can be spent inside a museum, shopping mall, café, or hotel. Outdoor activities can resume later in the day.
Children and older family members should take regular water breaks even if they do not feel thirsty. Long periods in direct sunlight should be avoided.
Weather to Watch in June
- High heat and humidity
- Heavy rain within a short period
- Slippery surfaces after rainfall
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration
- Large differences between outdoor heat and indoor air conditioning

July Weather in Kaohsiung
July is one of the hottest months in Kaohsiung. Typical temperatures range from approximately 26°C to 32°C, but direct sunshine and high humidity can make the apparent temperature feel much higher.
The heat can become intense shortly after the morning begins. Walking between attractions at midday can be exhausting for young children, older travelers, and anyone unaccustomed to a humid subtropical climate.
Instead of trying to visit many attractions, select two or three main places each day. Group nearby attractions together to reduce transfers and unnecessary walking.
Choose pale, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sun umbrella, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, cooling towel, and portable fan.
Children should drink small amounts of water regularly. Move immediately to a cool indoor space if a child becomes unusually tired, dizzy, confused, very flushed, or stops sweating despite the heat.
Rain can arrive quickly, occasionally with gusty wind. Check the local conditions before taking the ferry to Cijin Island or spending extended periods near the coast.
Weather to Watch in July
- Intense sunshine and high apparent temperatures
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration
- Sudden showers and gusty wind
- Possible transportation changes during tropical weather
- Strong ultraviolet exposure
August Weather in Kaohsiung
August remains extremely warm, with typical temperatures around 26°C to 31°C. It is also among the wettest periods of the year.
Some showers are brief, while other weather systems can bring prolonged rain. A flexible itinerary is essential.
When heavy rain is expected, replace coastal walks and island activities with museums, department stores, covered shopping areas, or indoor attractions. Do not attempt to follow the original outdoor schedule simply because tickets or transportation were booked in advance.
Quick-drying clothing is strongly recommended. Children should have a poncho, spare outfit, socks, and a small towel. A properly fitted stroller rain cover is more effective than trying to cover the stroller with an umbrella.
Keep passports, phones, chargers, medication, and travel documents inside waterproof pouches or resealable bags. A compact umbrella can be combined with a lightweight rain jacket for better protection.
Typhoons do not affect every August trip, but they can disrupt flights, ferries, outdoor attractions, and local transportation. Families should prioritize accommodation and tours with flexible cancellation or date-change policies.
Weather to Watch in August
- Frequent heavy rainfall
- Localized flooding after intense rain
- Typhoon-related flight or ferry disruption
- High humidity after the rain stops
- Slippery outdoor surfaces
September Weather in Kaohsiung
September usually remains hot, with temperatures of approximately 25°C to 31°C. Travelers should not expect cool autumn weather simply because September has begun.
The first part of the month often feels similar to August. Rain may gradually decrease later in the month, but tropical weather and typhoon activity can still affect travel plans.
Summer clothing remains necessary. Pack T-shirts, shorts, thin trousers, or lightweight dresses. A light long-sleeved shirt or cardigan is also useful in heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Combine outdoor and indoor attractions within the same day. For example, plan a morning waterfront activity with an indoor alternative nearby. If rain arrives, the order of the itinerary can then be changed without losing an entire day.
Accommodation near a Kaohsiung Metro station is particularly convenient during humid or rainy weather. It reduces long outdoor walks and makes it easier to return to the hotel if a child needs a break.
Weather to Watch in September
- Persistent late-summer heat
- Possible typhoons and intense rainfall
- Strong indoor air conditioning
- Fatigue caused by humidity
- Changing ferry and outdoor attraction schedules
October Weather in Kaohsiung
October temperatures generally range from approximately 24°C to 30°C. The most intense midsummer heat begins to ease, but daytime conditions are still warm.
Early October can resemble September, while the second half of the month often feels more comfortable in the morning and evening. Humidity may also become less oppressive.
Rain usually becomes less frequent than during the peak wet season, but sudden showers remain possible. A compact umbrella is still worth carrying.
Short sleeves, shorts, thin trousers, and breathable dresses are suitable. Pack a lightweight shirt for evenings, air-conditioned venues, or breezy waterfront areas.
October is a good month for combining Pier-2 Art Center, Love River, Lotus Pond, and other outdoor areas. Families with young children should still avoid scheduling the longest walking routes during the middle of the day.
Although the main rainy period is ending, tropical weather can occasionally affect travel plans. Check the forecast before ferry rides, coastal activities, and prepaid outdoor tours.
Weather to Watch in October
- Warm or hot afternoons
- Residual tropical weather during early October
- Strong ultraviolet exposure
- Occasional showers
- Overestimating how cool autumn will feel
November Weather in Kaohsiung
November usually brings more comfortable conditions, with temperatures of approximately 21°C to 28°C. Rain becomes less frequent, and humidity is generally lower than in summer.
Many afternoons are warm enough for a T-shirt. Mornings and evenings can feel cooler, especially near the harbor, Cijin Island, and Love River.
The more comfortable weather allows families to plan longer outdoor activities. Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, Cijin Island, and waterfront walks can be visited with fewer heat-related breaks than during the summer months.
Adults can wear a T-shirt or thin long-sleeved top with trousers. Carry a cardigan or light jacket for the evening. Children can wear removable layers that are easy to adjust throughout the day.
Older travelers may prefer long trousers and a lightweight jacket. Even when the weather feels mild, sunscreen and hats are still necessary during clear afternoons.
Weather to Watch in November
- Cooler temperatures after sunset
- Wind near the harbor and waterfront
- Strong sunshine on cloudless days
- Drier air that may affect sensitive skin
December Weather in Kaohsiung
December temperatures generally range from approximately 18°C to 25°C. Compared with winter in colder countries, the weather is mild, but mornings and evenings can feel cool.
Clear afternoons may be warm enough for short sleeves or a light long-sleeved top. On overcast or windy days, a cardigan or light jacket may be necessary even during the afternoon.
Rain is usually less frequent, making December a suitable month for walking itineraries and outdoor family sightseeing. The Christmas and year-end period can bring more visitors to shopping districts and major attractions, so early accommodation reservations are advisable.
Adults can wear a light long-sleeved top with a cardigan or jacket. Children will usually be comfortable in long trousers and a light outer layer. Pack a thin knit top for family members who are particularly sensitive to cooler weather.
Travelers arriving from a cold winter climate should dress in removable layers. A heavy coat worn to the departure airport may become unnecessary luggage after arrival in Kaohsiung.
Weather to Watch in December
- Differences between sunny and overcast conditions
- Cool evening wind
- The large temperature difference between the departure city and Kaohsiung
- Continued ultraviolet exposure despite the winter season

Best Time to Visit Kaohsiung for Families
For families prioritizing comfortable weather, November through March is generally the easiest period for outdoor sightseeing.
These months usually have less rain, lower humidity, and less intense heat. Children and older travelers can spend more time outdoors without requiring frequent air-conditioned breaks.
November and December provide a good balance of warmth and drier weather. February and March are also attractive because the temperature is usually manageable and the main rainy season has not yet begun.
April and October can work well for families who do not mind warm afternoons. These transitional months may provide a compromise between the busiest dry-season period and the hottest summer conditions.
A trip from May through September is still possible, but the itinerary should be designed around heat and rain. Schedule outdoor activities early, rest indoors during the hottest hours, and return outside in the late afternoon or evening.
Kaohsiung Family Packing Checklist
Regardless of the month, the following items are useful for a family trip to Kaohsiung:
- Lightweight cardigan or long-sleeved shirt
- Compact sun and rain umbrella
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Spare clothing for children
- Spare socks
- Waterproof pouch for wet clothes
- Comfortable shoes with slip-resistant soles
- Refillable water bottle
- Wet wipes and a small towel
- Stroller rain cover
- Portable fan
- Portable charger
- Regular medication and basic travel supplies
- Travel insurance information
- Saved copies of flight, hotel, and tour cancellation conditions
How to Plan a Family Itinerary Around the Weather
Use Mornings and Evenings During Hot Months
From June through September, schedule outdoor sightseeing between approximately 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Spend the hottest part of the day in a museum, shopping mall, restaurant, café, or hotel. Resume outdoor sightseeing later in the afternoon when the intensity of the sun begins to decrease.
Grouping attractions by neighborhood also reduces heat exposure. One well-planned district per half day is often more comfortable than crossing the city repeatedly.
Prepare an Indoor Alternative for Rainy Days
Do not create a schedule that depends entirely on dry weather. Pair every outdoor destination with an indoor alternative in the same general area.
If rain is forecast, begin with the indoor location and move outside when conditions improve. Avoid making too many non-refundable, time-specific bookings on the same day during the rainy season.
Check Cancellation Policies During Typhoon Season
Tropical weather may affect Kaohsiung between summer and early autumn. Even when a typhoon does not make landfall in Kaohsiung, it can still influence flights, ferries, rain, wind, and attraction schedules.
Before booking, check the exact free-cancellation deadline and date-change policy for hotels, tours, and transportation.
Travel insurance policies do not automatically reimburse every cancellation associated with a typhoon. Review the policy language for flight delay, cancellation, trip interruption, missed connection, and baggage delay coverage.
Kaohsiung Monthly Weather Summary
Kaohsiung is warm throughout the year, but each month provides a different travel experience.
January and February are mild and relatively dry. March and April become progressively warmer, with increasing humidity as summer approaches.
Rain becomes more frequent in May. June through September brings the greatest combination of heat, humidity, tropical showers, and possible typhoon disruption.
Conditions begin to improve in October, although afternoons can remain hot. November and December are generally drier and more comfortable for family sightseeing.
The best family trip is not necessarily the one that includes the most attractions. Children and older travelers are more likely to enjoy Kaohsiung when the itinerary provides enough shade, hydration, indoor breaks, and flexible alternatives.
Check the latest forecast shortly before departure and pack for both the outdoor temperature and indoor air conditioning. With lightweight layers, rain protection, spare clothing, and a weather-based itinerary, families can enjoy Kaohsiung in every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Kaohsiung with children?
November through March is usually the most comfortable period for families because temperatures are milder and rainfall is generally lower. November, December, February, and March provide a particularly useful balance between warm daytime weather and manageable humidity.
When is the rainy season in Kaohsiung?
Rain generally becomes more frequent in May, with wetter conditions continuing through the summer. June through September requires the most preparation for sudden heavy showers, high humidity, and possible tropical weather.
What should I wear in Kaohsiung in winter?
Pack short sleeves or thin long sleeves for the afternoon, along with a cardigan, windbreaker, or light jacket. Long trousers are useful in the evening and on windy waterfront days.
What should children wear in Kaohsiung during summer?
Children should wear loose, breathable, quick-drying clothing. Pack a hat, sunscreen, light raincoat, spare outfit, extra socks, water bottle, and a thin layer for air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Do I need a raincoat in Kaohsiung?
A compact raincoat or poncho is useful from May through September. It provides better protection than a small umbrella during heavy tropical rain, especially for children and travelers carrying bags.
