Xuhui High School, a Journey Through Over a Century of Modern Chinese Education History.

Located in Xujiahui, Xuhui High School, founded in 1850, boasts a history of over a century and a half. As the earliest Western-style school established by the Catholic Church in Shanghai, and one of the first schools in China modeled after Western education systems, its establishment almost coincided with the opening of Shanghai as a treaty port. It holds a unique position in the modern education history of Shanghai and even China. Over 160 years, Xuhui High School alumni have spread across the globe. Notable figures such as the renowned educator and patriot Ma Xiangbo (Photos 1, 14), geology giant and academician Weng Wenhao, "Father of Modern Sculpture" Zhang Chongren, former Minister of Health Chen Minzhang, Bishops Zhang Jiashu and Jin Luxian, Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Yan Yixun, world-renowned nuclear physicist and member of the French Academy of Sciences Zhou Zhixing, Chinese Academy of Sciences academicians Zhou Xingming and Wang Yingluo, Chinese Academy of Engineering academician Wei Dunshan, translator Fu Lei, playwright Hong Shen, entrepreneur Ren Jiugao, contemporary writer Ye Xin, and world swimming champion Yang Aihua, all studied here. Currently open to the public, the Chongsi Building, built in 1918, is the only remaining structure from the original Xuhui High School. Despite weathering a century of storms, its charm remains undiminished. This mountain-shaped building features a brick and stone exterior and a primarily wooden interior, showcasing the French Renaissance architectural style. The exterior walls are constructed with polished red bricks and hand-carved granite blocks. The facade boasts rich details, a classical three-part division, and symmetrical design centered around the main entrance of the small auditorium. Nine exquisite Corinthian columns flank each side of the small auditorium's main entrance, with brick shafts and stone capitals adorned with acanthus leaf patterns. The entire building, with its brick and stone structure and wooden interior, presents a perfect blend of classicism and refinement. Stepping inside the first floor, you'll discover the Huixue Museum and Huixue Corridor. Here, you'll find not only a wealth of historical artifacts but also a statue of Ma Xiangbo, the first Chinese principal of Xuhui High School, narrating their stories. Each exhibition hall has student docents, representing a form of education and historical inheritance. 📍Former Site of Xuhui High School: 68 Hongqiao Road, Xuhui District, inside Xuhui High School. 🕙Opening Hours: During winter and summer vacations: Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday; During school term: Sunday, 9:00–16:30 (entry closes at 16:00). 🎫Tickets: Free admission.