(China.org.cn)

Top 9: Meizhou Island (湄洲岛)

Located 42 km southeast of Putian City, Fujian Province, it is known as the birthplace of the goddess Matsu. Millions of pilgrims from around the world come to worship the goddess' statues on March 23 and September 9 of the lunar calendar every year -- representing the days of Matsu's birth and ascendance up to heaven. The island is 9.6 km long from south to north and 1.3 wide from east to west, featuring more than 30 scenic spots. Boasting blue seas and skies, golden sands, green forests and mountains, it is an ideal tourist destination all-year-round.