Hotels themselves propose the registered maximum price when submitting pricing for record. The local authority reviews the submission for formality and compliance, but does not set or “approve” an arbitrary cap based on economic fairness. Authorities may reject filings for procedural issues, but they do not set price levels based on “market fairness.”

Beyond the food, the event has created a significant spillover effect for nearby attractions, with hotels and small shops in the city center reporting nearly full capacity.

The Kaohsiung City Government said the Sunshine Island Vibe Fest will return March 6–8, 2026, with activities planned at Central Park and Kaohsiung Main Station, marking the festival’s first dual-venue format.

One Threads user said a room that normally costs around NT$2,000 per night appeared to rise to NT$18,000 after midnight, accusing hotels of exploiting demand and calling on city authorities to investigate.

During the soft opening period, entry is reservation-only through the official website. Ticket prices are NT$399 for general admission, NT$299 for Kaohsiung residents, and NT$149 for concession tickets. Neimen District residents and children under two enter for free.

Opening Dec. 27, Panhua Park was redesigned from the old 三民一號公園 (Sanmin Park No. 1) beginning in June 2024, with a focus on restoring severely saline soil, reducing hard surfaces, and increasing green coverage.

The city said more than 100,000 people attended the first night, with crowds spilling into nearby shopping areas as officials stepped up security and traffic controls.

Kaohsiung will ring in 2026 with a neon party at Dream Mall’s Times Avenue on December 31, 2025

MRT extended to 2 am, Light Rail to 1:30 am, and TRA trains will keep on chugging until 2:30 am.

As city events grow more active, officials said making smart transportation choices is essential. Leaving private vehicles at home and relying on MRT and light rail services, they added, helps ensure that Kaohsiung weekends remain lively without becoming congested.