The splendid Tomb of Hai Rui located in the environs of Hainan Island’s Haikou City was constructed during the reign of the Ming Dynasty in honour of the greatly esteemed official Hai Rui. Today this attractive location has become a popular visitor attraction, frequented by local as well as foreign sightseers. The tomb complex remains tranquil and attractive, and is noted as an appealing spot in which to spend leisure hours.
Hai Rui during his official career gained a strong reputation for upholding exalted morality, scrupulous fairness and honesty with a commitment to remain with modest means, rejecting material riches. These policies earned him great popular acclaim but also made numerous enemies within the administration. Finally Hai Rui submitted a document impeaching the reigning Emperor himself, and was subsequently sentenced to be executed. After the death of the Emperor the following year Hai Rui was released, and continued his career demonstrating the same exacting standards.
Upon his death the grieving people of the region gathered together to bury him. As his coffin was being transported the rope broke, and this sign was taken as a signal that the spirit of Hai Rui wished to be buried at this location.
As you enter the tomb compound through the bridge you will notice verdant coconut palms and pine trees as well as lotus blooms which create a picturesque scene. Along the pathway the visitor will see stone figures of goats, lions and horses. As you ascend the three-level stairway you will notice a stone statue of a tortoise with a stele positioned on its carapace.
On the third level you will reach the actual tomb building itself, with a burner for incense positioned in front of it. The visitor will also notice a number of large monuments set in place by this acclaimed official’s colleagues and disciples. The tomb construction itself is formed of granite with an octagonal base. Behind this building you will see pavilions, one displaying verses by Hai Rui himself.
If you are visiting the area and desire a quality Sanya resort an obvious choice would be the Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa. This fine Sanya hotel offers appealing accommodations and attentive hospitality.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.