The lotus lake in front of the Puji Temple on Putuo Mountain is lit up by lanterns and lights. A lantern show is held during the 15th South Sea Guanyin Cultural Festival, Nov 17, 2017. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

According to Buddhist legend, the Guanyin Bodhisattva, or Goddess of Mercy, brought Buddhist doctrines to the mountain more than 1,000 years ago, making the mountain a Buddha Kingdom. Serving as the home of the Guanyin Bodhisattva, the mountain has welcomed visitors for thousands of years. Historical records show that the earliest worshipers came to Putuo during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC).

Built and unveiled in 1997, the South Sea Guanyin Statue has become a must-see spot on the island.