TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 2026 Kaohsiung Lantern Festival opened Feb. 7 at Love River Bay (愛河灣) in southern Taiwan, featuring the themed event Kaohsiung Wonderland｜ULTRAMAN that runs until Sunday (March 1). The festival transforms the bay into a winter wonderland, celebrating the iconic Japanese hero Ultraman. Organizers said the event pays tribute to everyday heroes who protect the public.
Organizers themed this year's winter amusement park around Ultraman, creating a storyline where the hero descends on the harbor city. Love River Bay serves as the main venue, offering harbor views integrated with thematic installations, meet-and-greet events, night light shows, and pop-up stores. The festival extends from the bay to Piers 16-18 (高雄港16至18號碼頭), creating a combined experience of large installations, night light displays, and interactive performances.
A highlight is the limited-edition Ultraman lantern, which breaks from traditional zodiac lantern designs. The lantern replicates the classic Ultraman design, offering artistic and collectible value with standing, sitting, and flying display positions. Elementary school students in Kaohsiung receive lanterns through their schools after classes resume. The public can collect them at Pier 18, Kaohsiung Port (18號碼頭) on Friday (Feb. 27) and Saturday (Feb. 28) from 4 p.m. until supplies last.
For the first time, the Original Ultraman and Ultraman Tiga appear in large inflatable water forms at Love River Bay, creating a major attraction for visitors. The Kaohsiung City Government arranged meet-and-greets with the Original Ultraman, Ultraman Tiga, and Ultraman Zero at the venue. These scheduled events allow fans of all ages to interact with beloved characters in person throughout the festival, which runs until Sunday (March 1).