Hai Rui's ancestral home in Shixia

Introducing Hai Rui's Ancestral Residence in Shixia

Hai Rui's ancestral home in Shixia is located in Shixia Village, Xinxing Town, Tunchang County. Shixia Village is the birthplace of Hai Rui. There are still four ancestral tombs of the Hai family in the village: the tomb of the first ancestor of the Ming Dynasty, Hai Gong (the tomb of the first ancestor Hai Dar), the tomb of Huang Ming Shuru Ren Wu (the tomb of the mother of the eighth generation Hai Yilong), the tomb of the twelfth generation ancestor Hai Jianlong, and the tomb of Hai Zhongjie's mother, Tai Xie (the tomb of Hai Rui's mother).

The Hai family has a long history of philanthropy in the local area, and the people of Shixia Village hold them in high esteem. Hai Rui was a loyal minister. Every Qingming Festival, people bring incense, candles, and paper money to the Hai family tomb to pay their respects and add soil to the grave. This fully demonstrates the Shixia villagers' gratitude and their historical and cultural heritage. The tomb is also a significant historical site in Tunchang County, offering valuable tourism, archaeological, and research value.

Climate and best time to travel

tropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, central Hainan is a rare summer resort in August, with an average daily temperature of 23-24 degrees Celsius and lush flowers, plants and trees.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Hai Rui's ancestral home in Shixia

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hai Rui's ancestral home is a historical site dedicated to the renowned Ming Dynasty official and scholar, Hai Rui. Known for his integrity and dedication to justice, Hai Rui became a symbol of good governance. His ancestral home in Shixia is an important cultural heritage site, offering visitors a glimpse into his life and the traditions of the time.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hai Rui's ancestral home is located in Shixia, Tunchang County, Hainan Province. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car from Haikou (approximately a 1.5-hour drive). Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is recommended for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to April, when the weather is more comfortable, and it’s less humid.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It’s advisable to check in advance for any special events or price changes.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is generally not required. However, during peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese New Year or national holidays), it may be beneficial to check availability and book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 1-2 hours to explore the site, depending on your interest in the historical and architectural details. You may also enjoy some time relaxing in the scenic areas surrounding the home.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include Hai Rui’s ancestral hall, the exhibition rooms showcasing his life and works, and the traditional architecture of the home, which reflects Ming Dynasty styles. The surrounding gardens and tranquil countryside views are also worth visiting.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and you can hire a local guide at the entrance. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, and some guides may offer services in English, depending on the availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the front of the ancestral hall, with the traditional architecture in the backdrop, and the scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The gardens and nearby landscapes also provide great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the ancestral hall, then move on to the exhibition areas to learn about Hai Rui’s life. Spend some time exploring the gardens and outdoor spaces to fully appreciate the serene environment.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no special night visits or light shows at Hai Rui's ancestral home. However, the site can be visited during the evening for a peaceful and quiet experience, as it is generally not crowded.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site is generally not very crowded. Weekdays are less busy, while weekends and public holidays (especially in spring and autumn) may attract more visitors. To avoid crowds, visit during early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs, but food options may be limited. Visitors are advised to bring water and snacks for longer visits.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is accessible for most visitors, including elderly and children. However, some areas with traditional architecture may have uneven paths or steps. Disabled visitors may need assistance in certain areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted on-site. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or if mobile payment options are unavailable in some areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants and food stalls around the area offering Hainanese dishes, such as seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. For more variety, visitors can head to Tunchang County or Haikou City.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are somewhat limited in the area, but some local restaurants may offer basic vegetarian dishes. Halal food is not common in this area but may be found in larger cities like Haikou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are small guesthouses and hotels in Tunchang County. For a wider selection of accommodations, visitors can choose to stay in Haikou, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away from the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and the beaches of Haikou. Visitors can also explore Tunchang’s rural areas and natural reserves for a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in the area offer local crafts, such as woven items, Hainan tea, and small trinkets. These make for great keepsakes or gifts to bring back home.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue your trip are taxis or private cars, especially if you are heading to Haikou or other parts of Hainan. Public transport options may be limited in the more rural areas.