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Meizhou Island is located in the central part of Fujian's "Golden Coast," at the mouth of Meizhou Bay, in the middle of the west coast of the Taiwan Strait. Located 40 kilometers southeast of Putian City, it offers convenient transportation by land and sea. Meizhou Island is also the birthplace of the renowned Mazu, known as the "Mecca of the East," and the origin of Mazu culture.
The island boasts beautiful scenery, with unique boulders dotted throughout the geological landscape, and wide, soft beaches, making it a popular holiday destination. Attractions include the Mazu Ancestral Temple, the Mazu Cultural Park, the Ewei Divine Stone Park, the Golden Beach, and the Mazu Film and Television City.
The Meizhou Mazu Ancestral Temple is the ancestral temple of over 5,000 Mazu temples worldwide. The temple primarily features the Tianhou Palace, Chaotian Pavilion, and Bell and Drum Tower, among other Song Dynasty-style buildings. Thousands of believers visit daily to burn incense and pray, making it a popular destination. Adjacent to the temple is the Mazu Cultural Park, a paid attraction. A 14-meter-tall stone statue of Mazu perches atop a hilltop. Within the park, there are also stone carvings and a sprawling new temple complex. Viewing these buildings from afar by boat creates a sense of grandeur, reminiscent of the "Potala Palace on the Sea."
Meizhou Island has a typical subtropical marine monsoon climate with a mild climate, making it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Tour Route 1: Dongyanshan Mazu Palace – Wenfeng Palace – Gangli Ancestral Temple – Meizhou Ancestral Temple (Mazu Sacrifice Ceremony, Ancient Chime Bell Performance, Meizhou Women's Clothing Exhibition) – Ewei Shenshi Garden
Tour Route 2: Meizhou Ancestral Temple - Mazu Park - Meiyu Tide Sound - Eweishan Divine Stone Garden - Jiubaolan Golden Beach - Songshan Scenic Area - Tianyun Cave - Pinghai Tianhou Temple (Shiquan Well) - Yihao Leisure Resort
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
65 yuan/person
7:00-19:00
Meizhou Island, located in Fujian province, is known for its historical significance as a religious center. It is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, who is revered by many fishermen and seafarers. The island is an important cultural and pilgrimage site in southern China.
Meizhou Island is located in Putian, Fujian province. It can be reached by taking a bus or taxi from Putian city to the nearby coastal area, then a ferry or boat ride to the island.
The main attractions on Meizhou Island, including the temple, are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
The entrance fee to the Mazu Temple and other cultural sites on the island is usually around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be bought on-site, and some places offer online ticketing options.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during peak seasons or public holidays. For convenience, booking tickets online a few days in advance is recommended during busy periods.
To fully explore Meizhou Island, including visiting the temple, taking a boat tour, and enjoying the beaches, it typically takes 1 to 2 days.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in both Chinese and English at certain sites.
Start your visit at the Mazu Temple to learn about the island's history and significance. Then, explore the local villages, followed by a relaxing stroll along the beaches. End your day with a boat tour around the island to enjoy the coastal views.
There are no specific night visits or light shows on Meizhou Island. However, a peaceful evening by the beach is a great way to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the island.
Meizhou Island can get crowded during public holidays and peak seasons (such as Chinese New Year and summer). The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays during the off-peak months (October to March).
There are basic facilities available on the island, including public toilets, small food stalls, and rest areas. Shops sell local souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.
The island has some paved paths, but the terrain can be uneven in certain areas. Elderly visitors and those with mobility challenges may find it difficult to access some sites, especially the temple and coastal areas.
Cash is still widely accepted on the island, though mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in shops and restaurants.
There are several local seafood restaurants and small cafes on the island, offering dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. In nearby Putian, you can find a wider selection of restaurants.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially dishes based on tofu and vegetables. Halal food may be limited, but it is available in nearby cities with larger Muslim communities.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels on Meizhou Island offering basic accommodations. For more luxurious options, you can stay in nearby Putian, which has a broader selection of hotels.
There are souvenir shops on the island selling local handicrafts, such as Mazu-themed trinkets, seashell jewelry, and traditional Fujian textiles.
After visiting Meizhou Island, you can take a ferry back to the mainland and continue your trip by bus, taxi, or train. Putian city is a good base for exploring other attractions in Fujian province.
