Hsinchu High School was founded in 1922. In 1926 a gymnasium was built for the school's physical education classes and for practicing kendo, Japanese fencing. After building this facility, the school has had successful Kendo teams. Consequently, the gym is commonly referred to as Kendo Hall. Kendo Hall is a medium-size red brick structure with a gambrel roof. This sort of roof has a double slope, which makes the building look very different from other western-style buildings in Taiwan. Buttresses projecting from the exterior walls help to carry the load of the roof. Although the original tiles have been replaced with metal roofing, the building still conveys a sense of yesteryear.