Shih Hsin University

TaipeiTaiwan 24° N · 121° E Updated Oct 2026

Nestled in the vibrant Wenshan District of Taipei, Taiwan, Shih Hsin University (SHU; 世新大學) is a distinguished institution that offers more than just academic…

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Shih Hsin University
Photograph of sociologist Lucie Cheng with her father journalist Cheng She-wo at Shi Hsin University Taibei around 1956
Historical black and white photograph showing sociologist Lucie Cheng and her father, journalist Cheng She-wo, at Shi Hsin University in Taibei around the time of the university's founding in 1956.

What the places are

Shih Hsin University (SHU; 世新大學) is in Taipei’s Wenshan District. It is known for its contributions to media and communication studies and offers a broad range of academic programs. The university is a center for communication and media studies in Taiwan.

The National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, in central Taipei, is a major historical monument dedicated to former President Chiang Kai-shek. It is also a cultural hub that attracts millions of visitors.

History

Shih Hsin University

Founded in 1956 by acclaimed journalist Cheng Shewo and co-founder Yeh Ming-hsun, SHU began as the Shih Hsin School of Journalism. Its name represents the pursuit of “world” (世) and “new/news” (新) perspectives. The school became a university in 1997.

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Established in 1980, the memorial hall stands as a symbol of Taiwan’s political heritage. Its grand white edifice and blue octagonal roof embody traditional Chinese architecture.

What to see

Shih Hsin University

Visitors can explore the campus and its academic environment. The university hosts cultural performances, exhibitions, and lectures; check its schedule for events. High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the official SHU website.

Campus facilities include cafeterias and snack shops serving a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian options, free public Wi-Fi, and a bookstore selling official merchandise and study materials.

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

  • Main Hall A large bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek stands inside. The hourly changing of the guard is a highlight.
  • Exhibition galleries Displays cover Chiang Kai-shek’s life and Taiwan’s modern history.
  • Liberty Square The expansive plaza is flanked by the National Theater and National Concert Hall and serves as a cultural heart of Taipei.

The memorial’s historical significance and architecture are highlighted by the Taipei Travel Official Site.

Practical visiting information

Shih Hsin University

Hours: The campus is open to the public daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Some buildings, including the library and cultural centers, may have more limited weekday hours, typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Check the official SHU website or contact the campus information center for specific hours and holiday schedules.

Admission: General campus entry is free. Some exhibitions and performances may require tickets; details and bookings are available through the university’s online event calendar.

Guided tours: Tours covering SHU’s history, architecture, and notable alumni are available by appointment. Contact the International Affairs Office at least one week in advance.

Accessibility and facilities: The campus has ramps and elevators for wheelchair access, described as providing full access and serving all major buildings.

Getting there:

  • MRT Take the Songshan-Xindian (Green) Line to Jingmei Station, Exit 2. The walk to campus takes 10–15 minutes and has clear bilingual signage. See the SHU International Student Guide.
  • Bus Stops serving “Shih Hsin University” are served by Shin-Shin Bus 251, 666, 671, 915, Br6, Br12, and Br22; Sin Dian Bus 647; and Zhinan Bus 660 and 933.
  • Taxi or ride-sharing A taxi or Uber takes about 20–30 minutes from central Taipei.
  • Bicycle YouBike stations are near Jingmei MRT and around campus; bicycle rentals are also available nearby through Taipei’s YouBike system.

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last admission at 5:30 PM. Hours may vary on national holidays; check the official website for updates.

Admission: Free for all visitors.

Changing of the guard: The ceremony takes place hourly from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Guided tours: Tours are available in multiple languages and can be booked through the official website.

Accessibility: The site is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators throughout.

Getting there: Take the Taipei MRT Orange Line to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station, Exit 5.

Tips for visitors

Shih Hsin University

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the spacious grounds.
  • Check the university schedule for cultural performances, exhibitions, and lectures.
  • Photography is allowed in most public areas; respect academic activities and personal privacy.
  • October–December and March–May are the best months to visit for pleasant weather. Avoid the typhoon season in August–September.
  • Dress modestly. Smoking is prohibited on campus.
  • Many staff and students in international offices speak English.
  • The Audiala app is suggested for guided audio tours and real-time updates on Taiwan’s landmarks. SHU’s social media channels carry news and updates.

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
  • Photography is permitted throughout the site, but flash is prohibited during the changing-of-the-guard ceremony.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Liberty Square and the surrounding area.

Nearby places

Near Shih Hsin University

  • Jingmei Night Market A short walk from campus, with Taiwanese street food.
  • Maokong Gondola and tea plantations Scenic rides and panoramic views are a 10-minute journey from campus.
  • Taipei Zoo Two MRT stops away and suitable for families.
  • Gongguan Shopping Area A lively district with cafés and cultural venues.
  • Zhinan Temple A historic Taoist temple reachable by gondola or hiking trails.

Near National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

  • National Theater and National Concert Hall Adjacent venues hosting world-class performances.
  • 228 Peace Memorial Park A nearby green oasis and historical site.
  • Ningxia Night Market About 15 minutes away by taxi, with Taiwanese street food.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for Shih Hsin University?
No. General campus entry is free, though some events may charge a fee.

What are Shih Hsin University’s visiting hours?
The campus is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Some buildings have more limited weekday hours, typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Can I book a guided tour of Shih Hsin University?
Yes. Tours are available by appointment through the International Affairs Office; contact the office at least one week in advance.

Is the SHU campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. Ramps and elevators are provided, including in all major buildings.

What are the best months to visit SHU?
October to December and March to May.

Is English spoken at SHU?
Many staff and students in international offices speak English.

Is there an entrance fee for the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall?
No. Admission is free.

What are the memorial hall’s opening hours?
It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last admission at 5:30 PM. Hours may vary on national holidays.

Can I take photos inside the memorial hall?
Yes. Flash is prohibited during the changing-of-the-guard ceremony.

Is the memorial hall wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Ramps and elevators are available throughout the site.

Are guided tours available at the memorial hall?
Yes. Tours in multiple languages can be booked online through the official website.