About Soochow University
Soochow University is a private university in Taipei with two main campuses, Waishuanghsi and Downtown. Its origins date to 1900 in Suzhou, mainland China; it was reestablished in Taipei in 1951 and has since become one of Taiwan’s premier private universities.
The Waishuanghsi and Downtown campuses combine green spaces and architectural highlights, including Wang Memorial Hall. The university’s location also places it near Taipei attractions such as the National Palace Museum and Shilin Night Market. For institutional information, see the Soochow University Official Website.
History and Cultural Significance
The Soochow University History Room, located at the Waishuanghsi Campus, preserves Taiwan’s educational and social history. Its artifacts, photographs, and digitized archives trace the development of education from the late Qing Dynasty through World War II, including women’s advancement during the Japanese colonial era. Exhibits also provide context on Taiwan’s transformation from the late Qing Dynasty to the modern era.
The university’s collection and exhibits include material on the development of modern education and influential figures such as Xiang-Yao Chen.
What to See
Visitors can explore Wang Memorial Hall, campus gardens, and the Soochow University History Room. The History Room includes historical documents, multimedia exhibits, and 17 educational short films on topics such as Taiwan’s educational evolution.
The university also hosts periodic special exhibitions and film screenings, as well as occasional workshops on archival research and cultural preservation. Public lectures and festivals are held on campus; check university news for updates.
Virtual tours and image galleries are available through the university website.
Visiting Hours and Admission
Campus hours and entry
Campus access is free, including entry to public buildings. General visiting hours are listed as 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, though another listing gives 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. Hours may vary during holidays or special events. Group visits require registration.
Campus tours are available upon request and should be arranged in advance through the official website. Guided tours and exhibitions may also be available upon request; check the official website or contact the visitor center for schedules.
Soochow University History Room
- Hours Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed on public holidays and major holidays.
- Admission Free for all visitors.
- Location No. 70, Linong Street, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
- Guided tours Available for groups by advance reservation through the university website.
- Photography Permitted without flash.
Check the official website for holiday information.
Practical Visiting Information
Campus locations and transportation
- Waishuanghsi Campus In Shilin District, near the National Palace Museum. One route is Taipei Metro’s Jiantan Station followed by a brief taxi or bus ride. Another is MRT Shilin Station on the Red Line, followed by a taxi or bus. A university shuttle connects the two campuses.
- History Room The listed MRT route is the Red Line to Waishuanghsi Station, then a 10-minute walk from Exit 1. Multiple bus lines serve the area; check schedules for convenience.
- Downtown Campus In Zhongzheng District, in Taipei’s administrative and commercial center. It is within walking distance of Taipei Main Station and the Presidential Office, and is also accessible via Taipei Main Station or Zhongshan Station. More information is available from Soochow University Welcome.
Bilingual signage and downloadable maps are provided for self-guided campus navigation. The campuses are pedestrian-friendly and have bike racks. For public transport, visitors can use an EasyCard.
Facilities, accessibility, and services
Both campuses have ramps and accessible restrooms; ramps and elevators are also available throughout the campuses. The History Room is wheelchair accessible, and assistance is available with prior notice.
Libraries are open during the academic term; see SCU Library Hours. Campus facilities include cafeterias and coffee shops, with nearby eateries. Free guest Wi-Fi is available at information desks. Restrooms are available on campus and at MRT stations.
Both campuses have visible security staff and emergency contact points. English assistance and signage are available, and information desks provide support during business hours.
Accommodation
Budget and mid-range accommodation options are available in Shilin District near Waishuanghsi Campus. Near Downtown Campus, hotel options include MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel and Kimpton Da An.
Tips
Spring and autumn are described as the most comfortable seasons for campus walks and sightseeing. The History Room is often less crowded in the morning, when natural light is also better for photography.
The campus is subtropical, so carry an umbrella during rainy seasons. In summer, prepare for humidity and bring water and sun protection. Credit cards are accepted at larger venues; small shops may take cash.
Modest attire is expected in academic settings. Outdoor photography is allowed; ask permission before taking photos indoors or at events. For History Room photography, flash is not permitted.
Nearby Places
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum is a major destination for Chinese art and culture, with a collection of over 700,000 artifacts spanning thousands of years. Founded in 1965, it was established to safeguard treasures relocated from the Forbidden City in Beijing. Its collections include ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, jade, and bronzewares. The museum preserves Chinese heritage and fosters cultural exchange through exhibitions and educational programs. See the National Palace Museum.
- Hours 8:30 AM–6:30 PM daily; Fridays and Saturdays have extended hours until 9:00 PM.
- Tickets NT$350 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Children under 6 enter free.
- Accessibility Fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and assistance services.
- Guided tours Daily in multiple languages; check the museum website for schedules.
- Getting there Take the MRT to Shilin Station, then transfer to bus R30 or 255 directly to the museum. Parking is available for drivers.
- Facilities Cafés and gift shops are on-site.
- Photography Allowed in designated areas without flash or tripods.
- Practical considerations English signage is available. Online ticket booking is suggested to avoid queues, and guided tours are recommended for deeper insights. In summer, prepare for humidity and bring water and sun protection.
Nearby places include Shilin Night Market, Taipei Fine Arts Museum, and Waishuanghsi Park. The museum is also listed as 15 minutes by bus from the Soochow University History Room.
Other nearby attractions
- Shilin Night Market Near Waishuanghsi Campus and 2 km from the History Room; known for street food, local dishes, and shopping.
- Waishuanghsi Riverside Park A place for outdoor walks.
- Taipei 228 Memorial Park A historically significant site near Downtown Campus.
- Dihua Street and Ximending Historic and trendy shopping districts, respectively; see Away to the City.
- National Palace Museum A world-class collection; see Unmissable Trips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there an entrance fee to visit Soochow University?
A: No. Campus visits are free.
Q: Are guided campus tours available?
A: Yes, by request. Contact the visitor center or arrange a visit in advance through the official website.
Q: What are the campus visiting hours?
A: Hours are listed as 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily and, in another listing, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. Check for holiday updates.
Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather and photography.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Parking is limited; public transportation is recommended.
Q: Are children welcome at the History Room?
A: Yes, the site is family-friendly.
Q: Can I download the History Room’s short films?
A: Some are available for educational use; inquire at reception.
Q: Is the History Room open during university holidays?
A: It is closed on major holidays. Check the official website before visiting.
Q: Is photography allowed at Soochow University?
A: Outdoor photography is allowed; seek permission for indoor or event photography. In the History Room, photography without flash is permitted.
Q: When is the National Palace Museum open?
A: It is open 8:30 AM–6:30 PM daily, with late hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 9:00 PM.
Q: How much are National Palace Museum tickets?
A: Adult tickets are NT$350, with discounts for eligible visitors; children under 6 enter free.
Q: Is the National Palace Museum accessible?
A: Yes. It has ramps, elevators, and assistance services.
Q: Are guided tours available at the National Palace Museum?
A: Yes, daily in multiple languages.
