Is Kaohsiung City Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Kaohsiung’s municipal tap water is treated and monitored to meet Taiwan’s drinking-water standards, so it is considered safe to drink. Its taste may differ from bottled water because of treatment and disinfectant residuals.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water can be affected by pipes or rooftop storage tanks within individual buildings. Many residents boil or filter tap water before drinking it.

Last checked: 2026-10-23

Taiwan is ranked as number 59 globally with a score of 69% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan

Kaohsiung City’s tap water mainly comes from the Gaoping River and Nanhua Reservoir. The Gaoping River is a major surface-water source for the city, while Nanhua Reservoir stores and supplies water from the Nanhua River basin.

The water is treated at purification plants before it enters the municipal distribution system. Local reservoirs, including Chengcing Lake, also support the city’s water supply.

Kaohsiung City Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Kaohsiung are generally safe to use when they are marked as potable and are properly maintained. Taiwan’s drinking water standards cover microbial and chemical contaminants.

Choose a fountain with a current maintenance or inspection notice, and avoid one that appears dirty, damaged, or out of service. Let the water run briefly before drinking.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kaohsiung City. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Kaohsiung City is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.