From 'Train Hospital' to Family Paradise: Kaohsiung's Former Railway Workshop Transforms into Major Indoor-Outdoor Playground

Kaohsiung's largest semi-indoor family recreation zone, the 'Kaohsiung Kids Amusement Park,' officially opened today (8th), with Mayor Chen Chi-mai leading the city government team alongside Deputy Minister of Transportation Chen Yan-bo, TRA Chairman Cheng Kuang-yuan, retired staff representatives from the Kaohsiung Workshop, and mascots including Kaohsiung Bear and Banana Brother from the YOYO family, all attending the inauguration ceremony. This marks a significant transformation of the former TRA Kaohsiung Workshop—once known as the 'Train Hospital'—into a vibrant new public space.

On opening day, families flocked to the park for outdoor inflatable water play zones, YOYO celebrity meet-and-greets, street performances, and themed markets. Over 30 free recreational facilities were available, creating a joyful atmosphere and adding a fresh highlight to summer family tourism.

Mayor Chen emphasized Kaohsiung’s ongoing efforts in urban space revitalization, blending cultural preservation with modern infrastructure to create multi-functional public areas for leisure, tourism, and education. The original workshop once served as a critical maintenance hub for TRA rolling stock, symbolizing Kaohsiung’s industrial heritage and holding deep collective memories for residents. By repurposing the old factory buildings, the city has preserved high-ceiling steel structures, railway industrial architecture, and some original repair equipment, while introducing over 30 free facilities such as overhead rope play zones, bouldering walls, parkour training areas, and wheeled sports ramps—transforming an industrial site into a dynamic destination integrating history, education, and family recreation.

Tourism Bureau Director Kao Min-lin noted that the most popular outdoor summer-exclusive features on opening day included a 6-meter-high city waterslide, outdoor water playground, carousel, and inflatable maze, all drawing long queues. The outdoor water zone operates in eight 45-minute sessions daily; online reservations filled up instantly upon release, and on-site ticket distribution was equally enthusiastic, reflecting strong public interest.

In addition to rides and play areas, the park will host YOYO star appearances, magic shows, acrobatics, diabolo performances, and character interactions across three consecutive weekends from August 8 to 23, enriching children’s summer vacation experiences.

Longtime resident Mr. Huang, living near the site, shared that he brought his family to visit the former TRA workshop for the first time, expressing delight at seeing the old industrial area reborn with new family-friendly spaces. A resident near the Cultural Center thanked the city government for organizing diverse events that make childhood in Kaohsiung joyful. Mr. Ma from Zuoying Dome praised the park’s diverse and inclusive facilities, ideal for parent-child bonding. Ms. Lin from Yanchao and Ms. Wang from Tainan said they had eagerly awaited the park’s opening for over a month and were thrilled to celebrate Father’s Day with their families, creating unforgettable memories.

The Tourism Bureau reported heavy footfall from morning onward, with tickets for the morning water play session quickly claimed. Green spaces around the park feature photo zones with beloved characters like Shu-Q Family, Hamster Car, Pingu, and YOYOMAN. Five emerging artists were invited to create 12 large-scale whimsical art installations, attracting visitors to stop and take photos. Cultural guided tours are also offered, helping the public explore the historical significance of the TRA Kaohsiung Workshop. The on-site food market drew crowds too, offering a full experience combining recreation, cuisine, and arts.

The Kaohsiung Kids Amusement Park events will continue every weekend through August 23. Families nationwide are encouraged to visit during the summer break. Accessible via Kaohsiung Light Rail to 'Kaisyuan-Wuchang Station,' just a one-minute walk away, with free shuttle services available on holidays. More information is available on the 'Kaohsiung Travel Website,' official Facebook and Instagram pages, and the 'Kaohsiung GO!' app.