Overview
Cijin Star Tunnel is a short former military tunnel near the Cijin Lighthouse, retrofitted with LED lights that project a star-field pattern on its walls and ceiling. The tunnel emerges onto a rocky overlook facing the open Taiwan Strait.
Highlights
- LED Star Effect: Walking through the dark tunnel surrounded by twinkling blue and white lights feels like stepping through space.
- Ocean Overlook: The far exit opens onto a small platform perched above the rocks, with unobstructed ocean views.
- Proximity to Lighthouse: It's a two-minute walk from the Cijin Lighthouse, making both sites easy to combine.
History
The tunnel was constructed during World War II by the Japanese military as a supply passage linking the lighthouse hilltop to the western shoreline. After decommissioning, it lay abandoned until Kaohsiung's tourism bureau installed LED star effects and reopened it as a scenic attraction in 2005.
Visitor Tips
- Tip 1: Best experienced in the late afternoon when the contrast between the dark tunnel and the bright ocean exit is most dramatic.
- Tip 2: The tunnel is short (about 40 metres)—don't expect a long walk, but it makes a great photo stop.
- Duration: 10–15 minutes.