Quoc Hoc Hue - Century Old High School

Past

The site that now hosts Hue National High School was once the headquarters of a royal navy squadron. Originally established by French colonialists, the school aimed to train individuals who would serve the colonial government's feudal structure. At that time, French was the primary language of instruction, and the school's entrance was marked by the gate titled “Phap tu Quoc Hoc truong mon” (French National High School’s Gate). Today, it has evolved into Hue National High School, a prestigious institution where students must successfully pass a competitive entrance exam for admission.
Photo by @cassyzen

Founded in 1896, Quoc Hoc has over 120 years of history and is still a well-preserved example of French colonial architecture. The school comprises five blocks of classrooms, a large football field, a basketball court, five badminton courts, a swimming pool, a medium-sized stadium, and a dormitory. It is regarded as one of the largest and most beautiful high school campuses in Vietnam. The architectural design is striking against the lush greenery, featuring many large shady trees and stone benches. In spring, when the “diep anh dao” (a type of cherry blossom) blooms, the landscape transforms into a picturesque scene with pink petals dotting the bright red tiled roofs. This enchanting time is affectionately referred to as the “Pinky cloud season” by students, who consider it the highlight of their school year. Hence, Quoc Hoc is often referred to as the “Pinky school beside the Perfume River Bank,” celebrated in a song of the same name. Visitors are fortunate to experience the school during this charming season.
Photo by @itsme.photographer

Present

Quoc Hoc is not only known for its picturesque scenery but also for its deep-rooted traditions of patriotism, diligence, academic excellence, and the time-honored values of the teacher-student relationship. Many influential Vietnamese political figures have been alumni of this school, including Nguyen Tat Thanh (President Ho Chi Minh), General Vo Nguyen Giap, and Prime Minister Pham Van Dong. Additionally, the school boasts notable students who have excelled in various fields, such as poets (Xuan Dieu, Huy Can, To Huu, Luu Trong Lu), scientists (Ta Quang Buu, Ton That Tung, Dang Van Ngu), musicians (Tran Hoan, Chau Ky, Nguyen Van Thuong), and sculptors like Diem Phung Thi. Quoc Hoc students have also won prizes in numerous international competitions.
Photo: rubicontours.com

Visitors wishing to tour Quoc Hoc High School should note that entry is typically restricted during school hours, which conclude at 5:15 p.m. However, it may be possible to sneak through the two side gates. Students at the school are enthusiastic about engaging with foreigners, particularly those who speak English or French. The campus serves as an excellent spot for photography against a backdrop of natural beauty and French colonial architecture, especially with the sight of female students adorned in traditional white áo dài, adding a sparkle to the picturesque environment.

Hue National High School is situated on the east bank of the Perfume River, near the Trang Tien Bridge in Hue City.

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