Inauguration Ceremony – Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo
The inauguration ceremony of Grand Master Yang Zhenduo’s cenotaph was held in Yongnian, Hebei
In the historic land of Yongnian, Hebei, where countless Tai Chi legends have been nurtured, the inauguration ceremony of Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo’s memorial cenotaph was held on March 29, 2025, on the eve of the Qingming Festival. Over a hundred disciples of the Yang family from both home and abroad gathered at the Yang Family Memorial Park, filled with deep reverence for the grandmaster, to partake in this solemn event of remembrance and inheritance.
The morning sunlight gently spills over Yang mausoleum, located in Lianhuakou Village, Guangfu Town, Yongnian, draping this sacred land—deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Yang-style Tai Chi—in a golden veil. Surrounded by lush cypress trees with dense foliage, it stands like loyal guardians, silently watching over the generations of Yang family masters who rest here.
In front of Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo’s tombstone, offerings and fresh flowers were laid in abundance, reflecting the solemnity of traditional Chinese rituals while adding a touch of warmth to the solemn scene.
At around 9:00 a.m., the host, Mr. Yang Zongjie, officially announced the commencement of the ceremony. Masters Yang Zhifang, Yang Jun, and Yang Yong, along with family successors Fu Qingquan and Zhao Liang, former president of the Hong Kong Yang Family Tai Chi Association, and Chairman Guo from Yongnian, jointly unveiled the memorial cenotaph of Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo. At that moment, time seemed to stand still—everyone held their breath, gazing at the tombstone, overwhelmed with deep emotions.
Following this, Master Yang Jun, with a solemn expression, held three incense sticks high above his head and performed the traditional ritual of three bows and nine prostrations. Master Yang Zhifang, along with the Yang family relatives, carried out the ritual of one bow and three prostrations.
Next, disciples of the Yang family stepped forward one by one to offer flowers and pay their respects at Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo’s tombstone. Holding fresh flowers, they slowly approached the monument, gently placed their offerings before it, and bowed deeply. Their faces were filled with reverence and an unspoken sense of longing…
The wind carried solemnity, and the clouds were tinged with sorrow. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, Master Yang Jun recited the eulogy.
Yang Zhenduo (1926–2020), a native of Yongnian, Hebei, was the son of Yang Chengfu. Among four brothers, he was the third, all of whom inherited the Yang family legacy.
From a young age, he received direct instruction from his father. After his father’s passing, he practiced Tai Chi diligently, unwavering through the seasons. Guided by his mother and exchanging insights with his siblings, he remained steadfast in his resolve to uphold the family tradition, mastering the authentic art of Yang-style Tai Chi.
From Taiyuan to the entire nation, from the East to the West, wherever he traveled, he taught all without discrimination. He had countless disciples and students, earning widespread recognition across China and international acclaim. He was honored with the prestigious rank of 9th Duan in Chinese martial arts, served as an expert committee member of the first National Martial Arts Research Institute, and received honorary titles such as Honorary Mayor of San Antonio, USA, and the Golden Key to Troy City. His published work, Yang-style Tai Chi Chuan, Sword, and Sabre, remains influential.
Known for his kindness and warm demeanor, he had a deep love for Peking opera and calligraphy. With a virtuous heart and a long, fulfilling life, he peacefully returned to the Dao at the venerable age of 95. Having spent most of his life in Shanxi, he chose to rest in Longshan, Taiyuan. Yet, out of deep attachment to his ancestral homeland, his cenotaph now stands within the family’s burial grounds.
Thus, this inscription is dedicated to his memory:
Born in turbulent times, he endured many hardships, yet his will remained steadfast—his Tai Chi, a product of his heart and soul.
We think of him, we miss him, yet where do words begin? In sum, he embodied humility, integrity, openness, and harmony.
A gentleman of great modesty, with a pure lineage and noble virtue. Broad-minded and magnanimous, exuding warmth and joy.
Now, though we part forever, reluctant yet resigned—may his spirit find peace, resting eternally amidst the Taihang Mountains.
Alas, enjoy the offerings!
Grandson Yang Jun bows his head in deep mourning, weeping with sorrow.
In the year of the wood snake, on the eve of the Qingming Festival.
Master Yang Jun’s voice was both passionate and heartfelt, deeply moving everyone present…
After the ceremony, all attendees slowly made their way to the tomb of Grandmaster Yang Luchan, offering flowers and tributes. They then walked solemnly around the gravesite in a full circle. In that moment, the remembrance and reverence for the ancestors took root deeply in everyone’s heart.