Travel Guide: Old Mamaboy Marines Hostel, Kaohsiung

Introduction

Tucked in the leafy, laid-back Zuoying District of northern Kaohsiung, Old Mamaboy Marines Hostel is a hidden gem for travelers craving a homey, private group escape instead of crowded city hotels. This entire-property rental comes with three cozy double rooms, making it perfect for small families, friend groups, or pet owners looking to explore Kaohsiung’s historic and natural highlights at their own pace.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 54-8, Weishi Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung, this entire house rental puts the best of northern Kaohsiung within easy reach. All three double rooms are non-smoking, fitted with air conditioning, hardwood floors, and soft linens, with garden views that greet you each morning. Bathrooms come with free toiletries, a hair dryer, slippers, and a separate shower, with extra towels and linens available for a small fee.

For groups, the property shines with shared spaces designed for relaxing together: a bright living room with comfy sofas and a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fully equipped shared kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, kettle, and all the cookware you need to whip up local street food ingredients, and a sprawling outdoor space with a garden, patio seating, a picnic area, and outdoor furniture for evening barbecues or leisurely morning coffee. Practical perks include free public parking nearby, complimentary Wi-Fi in all common areas, ground-floor access for guests with mobility needs, and pet-friendly policies (just notify the property in advance, as a small extra fee may apply). For an additional charge, you can book local cultural tours or book a session in the on-site sauna after a long day of sightseeing. The multilingual staff speaks English, Japanese, and Chinese for smooth communication.

Local Attractions

Three unmissable nearby spots make this location unbeatable:

• Lotus Pond: Just a 10-minute drive from the hostel, this scenic urban lake is dotted with iconic temples including the Spring and Autumn Pavilions and the famous Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Walk the 2km lakeside path at sunset for postcard views and street food stalls serving traditional Kaohsiung snacks.
• Zuoying Confucian Temple: Taiwan’s largest Confucian temple is a 15-minute walk from the hostel. This graceful, red-walled complex blends traditional Chinese architecture with quiet, tree-shaded courtyards, perfect for learning about local culture or escaping the city heat.
• Xiziwan Bay: A 20-minute drive away, this curved crescent beach on the edge of Cijin Island offers gentle waves, seafood restaurants, and views of the Kaohsiung Harbor. Rent a bike to ride the coastal path or climb the nearby Cijin Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city.

Travel Tips

Book early, especially during weekends and Taiwanese holiday periods, as the private entire-house rental books up quickly from travelers wanting exclusive space. If you’re bringing a pet, confirm your request and any extra fee with the property at least 72 hours before check-in. The hostel is a 10-minute drive from Zuoying High Speed Rail Station, making it easy to reach from other cities around Taiwan. Grab fresh produce and local snacks from the nearby Zuoying Old Street night market, 5 minutes by car, to cook in the hostel’s shared kitchen for a budget-friendly, authentic local meal.