Meizhou Island is a small island close to the shore of Putian, Fujian Province. It is known for being the birthplace of Matsu, or Mazu, who is the indigenous goddess of the sea and is said to protect fishermen and sailors. She is the patron deity of all southern Chinese and East Asians. The Ming Dynasty witnessed the construction of many temples dedicated to her across China. These temples later also spread to other countries with large numbers of Southern Chinese inhabitants.

Pilgrimage and beach vacation are two reasons to visit Meizhou Island. Jiubaolan beach located in the southwest of Meizhou Island is a must-see for tourists. Its soft sand and clean sea have earned the beach the l nickname "China's Hawaii." Erwei Stone Park, a cluster of amazing stone landscapes, is also worth seeing.[China.org.cn/Photo by Chen Tao]