By KHT Staff. Image via KH City Tourism Bureau.
KAOHSIUNG — Two 35-meter whale kites will make their Taiwan debut over Cijin Beach (旗津海水浴場) this summer as the city’s annual kite festival returns for two weekends beginning July 25.
The 2026 Cijin Kite Festival and Inflatable Water Park (2026旗津風箏節暨氣墊水樂園) will be held July 25-26 and Aug. 1-2 near the Love Gate (鍾愛之門), the Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau said.
In addition to the giant whales, the aerial display will feature marine-themed kites shaped like stingrays, octopuses, sea turtles, and other sea life.
Fire dance performances are scheduled for Sunday evenings, extending the festival into the night. Saturday programming includes a DJ show on July 25 and interactive music and bubble shows on Aug. 1.
An inflatable water park will run alongside the kite displays, with four water-based inflatables, two large inflatable structures, and three mechanical amusement rides.
The Tourism Bureau said visitors wearing marine-themed clothing on July 25 can join a family challenge to receive a limited-edition water gun. On Aug. 1, visitors who take photos and check in at designated locations can receive one of 400 limited Cijin vouchers for use at local food vendors.
To encourage visitors to spend more time in the area, 20 businesses in Cijin and Hamasen (哈瑪星) will offer limited-time discounts during the festival. Participating vendors include seafood restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops.
Advance registration for side activities, including windmill making, is available on the FUN Cijin (FUN旗津) Facebook page.
