Putian, Meizhou Island, Mazu Ancestral Temple.

The Mazu Ancestral Temple on Meizhou Island is the first Mazu temple in the world. It was built in 987 AD, during the Northern Song Dynasty. Most of the existing buildings are from the Qing Dynasty. The temple complex is built along the mountain, with the front hall as the central axis. The main temple path is 300 meters long and 40 meters high. The 323 steps connect the buildings on both sides from the mountain gate, the ceremonial gate, to the main hall. On the top of the mountain, there is a 14-meter-high stone statue of Mazu. The Mazu Ancestral Temple complex mainly consists of the main hall, the sleeping hall, and the shrine of the holy parents. It has undergone several renovations and expansions to reach its current scale. This is also the origin of Mazu culture. The Mazu Ancestral Temple is very popular! The strong wind in early winter on Meizhou Island cannot stop the enthusiasm of believers and tourists. The Mazu Ancestral Temple is a national key cultural relic protection unit, and no additional ticket is required.