Homage to Matsu

Surrounded by thousands of worshippers, a dragon spins around the temple square at the start the parade of Matsu, god of the sea, at the Dajia Matsu Cheng Lan Temple, Saturday. Said to watch over fisherman and sailors, Matsu sets off on an eight-day pilgrimage from the Chen Lan Temple, with a parade of over 100,000 well-wishers, floats and fireworks. Matsu and a throng of followers will travel some 280km to sister Matsu temples throughout southern Taiwan before returning to Dajia.Apr 11, 2005

PHOTO: AP