KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — Kaohsiung (高雄) is gearing up for a magical winter as the city government announced its collaboration with Japan's popular character, Chiikawa (吉伊卡哇), for the "2025 Kaohsiung Wonderland" (高雄冬日遊樂園) festival. Lanterns will be available at the festival site on Feb. 8 and 9, limited to two per person.
Chiikawa debuted on Jan. 13 as the festival's star, paired with intricately crafted paper lanterns. The event, running from Jan. 25 to Feb. 16 at Love River Bay (愛河灣), promises to captivate visitors with Chiikawa's charm and a host of attractions. The festival will feature a large inflatable Chiikawa display, along with an amusement park, food markets, water activities, and family-friendly circus acts. To ease traffic congestion, officials encourage public transportation to Love River Bay.
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) expressed delight at securing Chiikawa's participation, noting the excitement among fans. Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau Director-General Kao Min-lin (高閔琳) highlighted the festival's continuation of last year's joyful atmosphere, originally created by the beloved Rubber Duck.
Children in Kaohsiung's elementary, kindergarten, and special schools will receive a mini lantern before winter break, ensuring Chiikawa accompanies them through the holidays. For more details, visit the Kaohsiung Tourism website and social media channels.
