If you’ve ever seen photos of NDHU in Hualien, it’s no wonder it’s often called “Taiwan’s most beautiful university.” Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, the campus features a picturesque lake, rowan tree forests, and wide green spaces, offering a calm, fresh-air environment perfect for studying or simply enjoying campus life.
NDHU is located in Shoufeng, Hualien, about 15–20 minutes from Hualien City by car. One of the biggest perks is its proximity to Hualien Train Station, making weekend trips or exploring Taiwan’s other cities quick and easy. On a daily basis, students usually get around by bus, scooter, or car.
Most students choose to rent a private room or studio near campus. The areas around NDHU have convenience stores, small eateries, cafés, and student-friendly restaurants, so daily needs are easily met. Renting a shared room or studio is generally the most affordable option and can provide a built-in social environment, which is ideal for students looking to make friends and build a support network.
Life in this area moves at a slower pace than in the big cities, making it perfect for students who prefer quiet study time or spending more hours outdoors.
For those who value privacy or need a quiet space to focus, renting a full apartment near NDHU is an excellent choice. Most housing options in Shoufeng are low-rise buildings or small apartment complexes, but there are also some newer developments and modern-style apartments available. These apartments are particularly suitable for graduate students, long-term residents, or anyone planning to live with a partner. Living near the campus lake and surrounded by mountains offers a serene, convenient, and nature-oriented lifestyle.
The lake and rowan tree forest on campus are popular spots for photos and leisurely walks. While the campus itself doesn’t directly overlook the ocean, nearby hills and roads offer distant views of the Pacific. For a true seaside escape, Qixingtan Beach is just a short ride away, and it is also one of Hualien’s most popular beaches.
NDHU has a modest but diverse international student population, smaller than at larger schools like NTU, NCCU, or NTNU. Many international students are drawn to its Chinese language programs, as well as courses in the arts, culture, and natural or marine sciences. The combination of mountains, the nearby ocean, and campus features like the lake and rowan tree forests makes NDHU especially appealing to students who enjoy a relaxed, nature-focused lifestyle.
Finding housing near NDHU, whether a shared room, studio, or full apartment, allows international students to experience one of Taiwan’s most beautiful campuses while enjoying Hualien’s laid-back lifestyle, all while staying connected to the rest of the island.