To observe the birthday of goddess, 10,057 bunches of flowers will be used to decorate the Matsu Temple, the largest of all Matsu Temples in Southeast Asia, as well as 1,057 red lanterns hung from trees, lamp posts, in the pavilion and along the streets.

Staff members hang red lanterns on tree branches to celebrate the upcoming annual Guangzhou Matsu Culture Festival, to be held on April 16 to 19 at the Matsu Temple, Nansha distrct, Guangzhou. [Photo/gznsnews.com]

In addition, 1,057 bags of rice and noodles will be offered to visitors, in keeping with the tradition. Complimentary rice or noodles will be given to the first 30 tourists every day, according to an official.

The 14.5-meter-tall sacred statue of Matsu will be arranged in new garments this year, consisting of nine pieces in total and featuring handmade Chaozhou embroidery.

Young pilgrims change festival gowns on the sacred statue of Goddess Matsu, in Matsu Temple, Nansha distrct, Guangzhou. [Photo/gznsnews.com]