Travel Guide: Lu-Mah Homestay II, Namaxia, Kaohsiung

Introduction

Tucked away in the lush mountain countryside of Kaohsiung’s Namaxia District, Lu-Mah Homestay II is a dreamy escape for travelers tired of Kaohsiung’s busy city center. Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Liuhe Night Market and Cijin Island, this secluded countryside retreat lets you slow down, breathe crisp mountain air, and wake up to unobstructed views of rolling peaks and a glistening river. It’s ideal for pet owners, hiking groups, and anyone craving an authentic slice of rural Taiwanese life.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 76, Anshan Lane, Namaxia District, Lu-Mah Homestay II is a fully independent standalone property designed for relaxed, self-directed stays. The homestay boasts sprawling outdoor spaces, including a garden, patio, outdoor dining area, and rest zone, all positioned to frame its standout views: sweeping river vistas, layered mountain peaks, and distant local landmark views. Inside, the common area features a plush sofa, dedicated dining space, and a shared kitchen equipped with a dining table and washing machine for longer stays. Each room comes with bedside charging outlets, an electric fan, and a flat-screen TV, plus options for both private and shared bathrooms, all stocked with toilet paper, a hairdryer, and either a bathtub or walk-in shower. Practical perks include free public parking near the property with no reservation required, and both English and Chinese are spoken by the hosts for smooth communication. The homestay allows pets with advance notice (extra fees may apply), is entirely non-smoking, and offers board games and puzzles for cozy evening gatherings. Note that the homestay does not provide internet, and upper floors are only accessible via stairs, a small tradeoff for the quiet, disconnected rural experience.

Local Attractions

Three can’t-miss spots are within easy driving distance of the homestay:

• Tengjhih National Forest Recreation Area: Just 20 minutes from the homestay, this 1,600-hectare forest park boasts ancient cypress trees, well-marked hiking trails, and cool alpine air perfect for birdwatching and picnics. Don’t miss the view from the observation deck, where on clear days you can see all the way to the Taiwan Strait.
• Namaxia River Gorge: A 10-minute drive gets you to this rugged, clear-water gorge, popular for summer swimming, river tracing, and photography. The gentle shallow pools are great for casual visitors, while deeper sections appeal to more adventurous hikers.
• Jiangjun Mountain: A moderate 3-hour round-trip hike from the trailhead 15 minutes from the homestay, this peak rewards you with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Namaxia mountain range, with sunset views that draw photographers year-round.

Travel Tips

Since the homestay does not provide internet, download offline maps and your hiking route before arriving. Pack sturdy walking shoes for mountain trails, and bring layers—even in summer, mountain evenings are cool. If traveling with a pet, confirm your pet policy and any extra fees with the host at least 72 hours before check-in. Grocery stores and casual local restaurants are 10 minutes away by car in central Namaxia, so stock up on snacks and supplies before heading to the homestay. This is the perfect spot to disconnect from digital life, so embrace the lack of internet and enjoy the quiet of the Kaohsiung mountains.