Tomb of General Yuan — the spectral warrior of Beijing's Chongwen District

The Tomb of General Yuan, located in what was formerly Beijing's Chongwen District (now part of Dongcheng), is said to be haunted by the ghost of the military figure buried there. The tomb, dating to an earlier dynasty, has been surrounded by urban development as Beijing expanded, leaving the burial site incongruously amid modern buildings. Residents and workers in the area have reported seeing a partial apparition — the upper body of a man in military armor — near the tomb site, particularly during the hours around dusk. The figure appears to be standing guard, as though still fulfilling his duty to protect the burial site. Some witnesses describe hearing the clinking of armor and the sound of a sword being drawn. In Chinese culture, the spirits of military officials and generals are considered especially powerful and potentially dangerous if their resting places are disturbed or disrespected. The urbanization around the tomb has reportedly increased the frequency of sightings, suggesting the general may be unhappy with the encroachment on his final resting place. Offerings of incense and food are still left at the tomb by local residents who wish to appease the spirit.