Meizhou Island

Meizhou Island, located in Putian City, Fujian Province, is the birthplace of Mazu culture and renowned as the "Pearl of the Sea." It boasts profound cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for pilgrimage and vacation. Here’s a detailed travel guide to Meizhou Island:

**1. Transportation Guide**
1. **How to Get to Meizhou Island**
- **By Air**: The nearest airports are **Fuzhou Changle International Airport** or **Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport**, followed by a transfer to Putian via high-speed rail or bus.
- **By High-Speed Rail**: Take the train to **Putian Station**, then a taxi or bus to **Wenjia Pier** (about 1 hour).
- **By Car**: Navigate to "Wenjia Pier," where paid parking is available (~¥30/day).
- **By Ferry**: Take a boat from Wenjia Pier to Meizhou Island (20-minute ride, round-trip ticket ¥125/person, includes entrance fee).

2. **Island Transportation**
- **E-bike Rental**: The most convenient option (~¥50-80/day).
- **Sightseeing Bus**: Suitable for families/groups, charged by route.
- **Public Bus**: Limited schedules available on the island.

**2. Must-Visit Attractions**
1. **Mazu Ancestral Temple**
- **Highlight**: The birthplace of Mazu culture, featuring grand architecture and vibrant incense rituals.
- **Morning Worship**: Participate in the dawn ceremony for an authentic spiritual experience.
- **Night Light Show**: The temple dazzles with illuminated displays after dark.

2. **Ewei Shenshi (Divine Stone) Park**
- **Unique Sea Erosion Landforms**: Bizarre rock formations like "Flying Halberd Cave" and "Turtle Pilgrimage," perfect for photography.
- **Sunset Spot**: Stunning views at dusk.

3. **Golden Beach**
- **Longest Beach**: Fine sand and clear waters ideal for swimming and strolls.
- **Water Activities**: Jet skiing, beach volleyball, etc., in summer.

4. **Meiyu Tide Sound**
- **Natural Wonder**: Waves striking rocks create musical rhythms—great for quiet contemplation.

5. **Lotus Pond Beach**
- **Secluded Escape**: Quieter than Golden Beach, perfect for solitude seekers.

**3. Food Recommendations**
1. **Seafood Feast**
- Fresh and affordable: try **boiled shrimp, steamed crab, oyster omelet**.
- Recommended restaurants: Fisherman’s Kitchen, Seaside Seafood House.

2. **Putian Specialties**
- **Mazu Noodles**: Symbolizing peace, loaded with toppings.
- **Hong Tuan**: Sticky rice with sweet fillings, a festive treat.
- **Putian Braised Noodles**: Rich broth with chewy noodles.

3. **Night Market Snacks**
- Near the pier: BBQ, oyster cakes, and more at budget-friendly prices.

**4. Accommodation Options**
1. **Luxury Hotels**
- **Meizhou Island International Hotel**: Beachfront with full amenities.
- **Meizhou Meihai Hotel**: Ocean-view rooms.

2. **Boutique Guesthouses**
- **Blue Tears Homestay**: Artsy vibe, close to the beach.
- **Mazu Hometown Homestay**: Cultural immersion with hospitable hosts.

3. **Camping**
- Near Golden Beach (confirm permissions in advance) for stargazing by the sea.

**5. Itinerary Suggestions**
- **Day Trip**: Mazu Temple → Golden Beach → Ewei Shenshi Park (sunset).
- **2-Day Trip**:
- **Day 1**: Temple visit → Meiyu Tide Sound → Lotus Pond Beach.
- **Day 2**: Ewei Shenshi Park → Golden Beach activities → Night market.
- **3-Day Trip**: Add island cycling or fishing village experiences.

**6. Tips**
1. **Sun & Bug Protection**: Strong UV rays—pack sunscreen/hats; mosquitoes in summer—bring repellent.
2. **Tide Safety**: Check tides before exploring rocky areas.
3. **Temple Etiquette**: Maintain decorum; avoid touching statues.
4. **Eco-Friendly Travel**: Keep beaches clean.

**7. Best Time to Visit**
- **Spring/Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)**: Pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
- **Mazu Festival (23rd day of 3rd lunar month)**: Grand celebrations, but crowded.

Meizhou Island blends faith, nature, and leisure—whether you seek cultural depth or coastal charm, it won’t disappoint! ⛰️⛰️