Tomb of Chen Xianjia

　　The Tomb of Chen Xianjia, also known as the Flower Tomb of Xianjia, is located in Xianjia Village, about 5 kilometers southwest of Futu Town. The burial ground is shaped like a serpentine hill, and the flower tomb is placed at the “mouth” of the snake. Locals regard it as an auspicious geomantic spot, calling it “The Serpent (King) Spits Out Its Tongue.” Built during the Ming Dynasty’s Wanli era, the tomb complex covers an area of 200 square meters and consists of components such as a memorial archway, front chamber, altar, burial chamber, tombstone, and railing—all crafted from bluestone. The stone carvings depict motifs like “Double Phoenixes Facing the Sun,” “Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon,” “Deer and Crane in Spring,” and “Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate,” featuring birds, beasts, insects, and fish. The craftsmanship is exquisite, with lifelike imagery, making them true artistic masterpieces. The stone memorial archway stands 7 meters tall, has three gates, and is about 15 meters wide, presenting a grand and imposing sight. The tomb’s owner, Chen Xianjia, was a wealthy and influential merchant of his time, known for his generosity and public-spiritedness, earning a reputation across southeastern Hubei. His ancestor, Chen Renyuan, donated over 20,000 dan of grain to relieve famine during the Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty, for which he was commended by Emperor Wuzong of Ming (Zhengde), who bestowed a golden plaque inscribed with “Praise to the Righteous Family of Chen Renyuan.” This plaque still exists. Owing to its historical and artistic value, the tomb has been designated as a key cultural relic protection unit by the People’s Government of Hubei Province.

　　The Tomb of Chen Xianjia is backed by mountains and faces a lake. In front of the tomb, the water sparkles, accompanied by fishermen’s songs; behind it, lush pines and cypresses stand with mountain birds chirping in harmony, creating exceptionally beautiful scenery. To the north of the tomb lies Lianhua Temple (also known as Datang Nunnery) on Lotus Mountain, with its red walls and green tiles, nestled amid green trees. The morning bells and evening drums resonate clearly and melodiously. To the northwest of the tomb is the “Sky-Piercing Candle,” a towering cliff shrouded in ancient trees, with winding paths leading into serene seclusion where animals roam and birds fly—it is also a fine spot for sightseeing and exploration.