First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM

About

The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM is one of the most distinguished TCM institutions in China and the flagship hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Located in Tianjin — one of China's four direct-administered municipalities, adjacent to Beijing — the hospital is internationally famous for its acupuncture program, particularly for stroke rehabilitation. Tianjin University of TCM's acupuncture department, led historically by the renowned professor Shi Xuemin (石学敏), developed the 'Xing Nao Kai Qiao' (醒脑开窍, 'Awaken the Brain and Open the Orifices') acupuncture protocol for stroke, which has been studied and applied worldwide. This hospital is the clinical home of that tradition.

History & scale

Founded in 1954, the hospital has grown over seven decades into one of China's premier TCM centers. With approximately 2,600 inpatient beds, it is one of the largest dedicated TCM hospitals in the country. The hospital has a major campus in Tianjin with specialized facilities for acupuncture, TCM internal medicine, and integrated rehabilitation. Its outpatient volumes are enormous, and it serves as a national and international referral center for acupuncture treatment.

Star specialties

The hospital's world-renowned acupuncture department is its defining program — it developed the 'Xing Nao Kai Qiao' stroke protocol that is now taught and applied internationally. The acupuncture service treats stroke (acute and rehabilitation phases), facial paralysis, chronic pain, neurological disorders, and a wide range of other conditions at exceptionally high volume. TCM internal medicine covers cardiovascular disease, respiratory medicine, gastroenterology, and nephrology. TCM orthopedics and tuina uses manual therapy for musculoskeletal conditions. TCM gynecology and TCM pediatrics are well-developed. The hospital is a major center for acupuncture clinical research, studying mechanisms and outcomes of acupuncture treatment, and has contributed significantly to the international evidence base for acupuncture.

Achievements & recognition

As a Grade A Class A (三甲) TCM hospital under Tianjin University of TCM (a national Double First-Class university), it holds multiple national key specialty designations. Its acupuncture program is a National Key Discipline and has received national and international recognition. The hospital is a leading center for TCM clinical research and education.

International services

The hospital has well-developed international patient services. Its acupuncture program has attracted international patients and visiting scholars for decades — it is one of the most internationally recognized TCM hospital departments in the world. The International Medical Department handles overseas patient coordination, English-language interpretation, and admission support. Tianjin's proximity to Beijing (~30 minutes by high-speed train) provides easy access via Beijing Capital International Airport. English-speaking staff are available, particularly in the acupuncture department where international patient experience is extensive. The hospital also offers short-term training programs for international acupuncture practitioners.

Why choose this hospital

For international patients, this hospital is one of the world's premier destinations for acupuncture treatment, especially for stroke rehabilitation. The 'Xing Nao Kai Qiao' protocol has a substantial evidence base and is practiced here by clinicians trained in the lineage of its development. It is an outstanding choice for: (1) stroke patients seeking acupuncture as part of their rehabilitation, (2) patients with facial paralysis, chronic pain, or neurological conditions where acupuncture may be beneficial, (3) acupuncture practitioners seeking training in this specific protocol, and (4) patients who want world-class TCM acupuncture at costs far below international private care. Tianjin's location adjacent to Beijing provides excellent accessibility while avoiding Beijing's congestion.

Frequently asked questions

Where is First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM located?

First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM is located in Tianjin, China.

Is First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM a reputable hospital?

First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM is a Class III-A hospital — the highest tier in China's grading system, held by only about 5% of hospitals nationwide.

Can international patients visit First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of TCM?

Yes. International patients are advised to contact the hospital ahead of the visit to confirm appointment procedures and language support (+86-22-27986666).

Explore more