Cultural traditions stand the test of time

Taiwan is one of the places where the belief is widely observed, as many from its population trace their ancestry to Fujian, especially the southern part of the province. This long-standing bond is under the spotlight at Shared Roots, Intimate Kinship, an ongoing exhibition at the National Museum of China in Beijing. Four wooden and ceramic Mazu statues created in different times are on show, reflecting her veneration that still thrives in Fujian and Taiwan.

One of the grand commemorative events held regularly is a tour of the original statue from Meizhou, her birth place, to cities, nationwide and abroad, where Mazu pilgrims can pay tribute to her. And, the fast development of rail transportation and aviation is a reason why passengers will find Mazu statues aboard.

Showing more than 400 objects from the collection of the National Museum of China and museums in Fujian, the exhibition, running through April 9, is a celebration of shared cultural traditions between the mainland and Taiwan, being passed down since ancient times till today, in various forms of art and antiquity.