Mazu (妈祖) is China’s most influential goddess of the sea, a central figure in oral history, local beliefs and folk customs, and her followers spread across China’s coastal regions. Legend has it that Mazu was born on Meizhou Island in the 10th century and died trying to rescue survivors of a shipwreck. To commemorate her dedicating her life to help the villagers who made a living by fishing, local residents started to build temples, which spread word of mouth and gradually transformed into Goddess symbol.

On Meizhou Island, two official temple fairs are held each year, with local residents, farmers and fishermen preparing sumptuous marine offerings. Candles, incense, firecrackers and Mazu lanterns are lit in the evening to pray for pregnancy, peace, trouble-solving and good luck. Commemorating Mazu is an important cultural activity that is deeply integrated into the lives, beliefs and cultural heritage of coastal residents. Belief in and commemoration of Mazu is an important cultural link that promotes family harmony, social harmony, and the social identity of these communities.